Name: Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 medium carrots, sliced 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 medium zucchini, diced 1 cup green beans, chopped 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 4 cups vegetable broth 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper 2 cups baby spinach; 0.75 cup ditalini pasta

There’s something soul-warming about a big bowl of minestrone soup, especially when it captures the same hearty flavors of the Olive Garden version. This copycat minestrone soup is packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a savory tomato broth that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a comfort food favorite that also happens to be naturally vegan and loaded with good-for-you ingredients.

Making a pot of this soup at home is easier than you think. It comes together with pantry staples and a handful of fresh produce, making it both budget-friendly and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder delivers flavor and ease in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup

This soup tastes like it came straight from the restaurant, but you get to control everything that goes in it. It’s naturally dairy-free and vegan, filled with protein-rich beans and fiber-packed veggies. It freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour from start to finish.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use in Minestrone Soup?

Small pasta shapes work best here, especially ones that can hold up to simmering without turning mushy. Think ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells. If you’re gluten-free, go with a sturdy gluten-free option and cook it just before serving to maintain texture.

Ingredients for the Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup

What makes this soup so special is how each ingredient adds to its layers of flavor and texture. From the base of aromatics to the final handful of pasta, everything has its purpose.

Olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies and adds richness to the base.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Provides the bold aromatic base.
Carrots: Bring color and a slight sweetness.
Celery: Adds crunch and balance.
Zucchini: Softens in the soup and absorbs the broth flavors.
Green beans: Add texture and a fresh snap.
Canned diced tomatoes: Form the acidic, rich base of the broth.
Tomato paste: Boosts the umami tomato depth.
Vegetable broth: Creates the soup’s flavorful liquid base.
Red kidney beans: Provide hearty protein and color.
Cannellini beans: Add creaminess and balance.
Italian seasoning: Brings the herby notes that define the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Baby spinach: Wilts in for a soft green finish.
Ditalini pasta: The classic minestrone pasta shape.

Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup (1)

How To Make the Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Tomatoes

Add the zucchini and green beans to the pot. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth and add both kinds of beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 15 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Step 4: Stir in Pasta and Spinach

Add in the pasta and continue simmering until the pasta is al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the baby spinach just before serving and cook until it wilts.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.

How to Store and Serve This Soup Right

This hearty minestrone makes about 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of parmesan (if not vegan) and a chunk of crusty bread on the side.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions and thaw as needed. If freezing, you may want to cook and store the pasta separately to avoid sogginess.

What to Serve With Minestrone Soup?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate dipping companion.

Italian Chopped Salad

A tangy vinaigrette salad balances the warm richness of the soup.

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

For a low-carb, flavor-packed side, roasted cauliflower with cheesy crust is perfect.

Grilled Cheese Panini

A twist on the classic grilled cheese pairs delightfully with minestrone.

Tomato Basil Flatbread

Keep it light but flavorful with herby flatbread on the side.

Olive Tapenade with Crackers

This Mediterranean touch adds a savory, salty snack element.

Bruschetta

Fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread echo the bright flavors of the soup.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If this hearty minestrone hit the spot, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting bowls:

Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy, creamy twist.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you’re craving cozy, rich bites.
Mexican Sopa de Conchas brings a flavorful childhood favorite to the table.
Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef if you’re in the mood for something extra filling.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or swap the pasta? I love seeing your personal twists on these classics.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and comfort food favorites on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next weeknight winner!

Conclusion

This Olive Garden copycat minestrone soup is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re curled up on a cold night or feeding a crowd, this soup brings cozy comfort to the table with every bowl.