Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, look no further than this Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat). It’s the perfect marriage of tender vegetables, rich broth, and tender pasta that all come together to create a bowl of pure comfort. The balance of fresh zucchini, carrots, beans, and Italian herbs makes every spoonful a delight—just like the beloved classic from Olive Garden, but made cozy and fresh right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with ingredients that are easy to find yet essential for building the wonderful layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the sweetness of carrots to the creaminess of beans, making this Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) truly shine.

• 2 medium carrots, diced into small cubes: Adds natural sweetness and a nice bite to the soup.
• 2 small zucchinis, diced into small cubes: Gives the soup a light, fresh texture and balances the heartiness.
• 1/2 large onion, diced into small cubes: Builds a savory depth with its natural sweetness and aroma.
• 6 celery stalks, diced into small cubes: Offers a subtle crunch and an earthy background flavor.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that highlights the Italian seasoning.
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes: Provides the rich, tangy base and vibrant color for the soup.
• 32 oz vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful liquid foundation, essential for simmering all ingredients together.
• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans, drained: Adds creaminess and protein, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
• 15 oz canned Kidney beans, drained: Offers a robust texture and earthy flavor contrast.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings authentic Italian warmth to the dish.
• 1 tbsp dry basil: Intensifies the herbal notes for a deliciously aromatic finish.
• 1/2 cup pasta: Adds chewiness and bulk, turning the soup into an all-in-one meal.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing veggies, enriching the flavor with a silky touch.
• 2 cups water: Helps adjust the soup’s consistency for that perfect, comforting texture.

How to Make Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about 10 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and dry basil over the mixture. Stir everything well so that those glorious herbs get to work combining with the tomatoes and vegetables, building that signature Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) flavor we all adore.

Step 3: Pour in Broth, Beans, and Pasta

Time to add the vegetable broth, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, and pasta. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the pasta can soften and the beans can absorb those wonderful flavors. If you find the soup is too thick or hearty, stir in 2 extra cups of water to lighten it up.

Step 4: Finish with Garlic and Simmer More

Press the minced garlic into the pot and give the soup a good stir. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes. The garlic will mellow and meld perfectly with the other ingredients, adding that irresistible aromatic note typical of Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat).

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Your soup is now ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed piping hot. The combination of colorful veggies, tender beans, and al dente pasta promises a satisfying meal every time.

How to Serve Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)

Garnishes

Top your bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, creamy contrast. Fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a bright herbal finish and that restaurant-quality look. A drizzle of good olive oil before serving also brings a silky richness that elevates every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping and soaking up all the delicious broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the warm, savory notes of the soup for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) in rustic bowls to bring out the homestyle charm. For dinner parties, you can offer it in mini soup cups as an elegant starter. Another fun idea is to ladle it over a bed of polenta or quinoa for a unique twist that adds extra heartiness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that pasta can sometimes become softer after freezing, so if you plan ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup is too thick, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving in large batches to preserve the fresh flavors and texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh beans require longer cooking times, so be sure to soak and cook them until tender before adding to the soup to get that creamy texture without any bitterness.

What pasta works best in Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best here because they fit nicely on a spoon and cook quickly without becoming mushy.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be vegan if you avoid adding cheese at the end. The vegetable broth and beans pack plenty of protein and flavor all on their own.

Can I add meat to the Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Definitely! Adding cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken can make this soup even more filling. Add meat after sautéing vegetables and before adding broth to incorporate its flavor.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

Adjust the thickness by adding more water or broth for a thinner consistency, or letting the soup simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Adding extra pasta or beans can also bulk up the texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) served fresh from your kitchen. It’s comforting, nutritious, and packed with vibrant flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. So grab your pot and immerse yourself in making this classic Italian-inspired dish today—you won’t regret it!

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