Place pasta in one of the bags, press out air and seal. Set aside.

Place parsley flakes, diced onion, oregano, basil, rosemary, garlic powder, pepper flakes, and black pepper in the second bag, press flat and seal, set aside.

Layer beans in the quart jar, gently tapping between each layer to pack down. Layer in dehydrated vegetables.

Place seasoning packet in the jar next, arranging so spices show in the front of the jar, especially if you are gifting the soup mix.

Next, place the baggie containing your noodles in the jar.

Seal the jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3-4 months.

Ingredients Needed (in addition to jar mix):

1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken if preferred)

10 cups broth (beef or chicken works well)

1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for smoother texture)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

Salt to taste

Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Remove pasta and seasoning packets from the jar. Set aside.

In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional).

Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Beans + Broth

Add the beans and dehydrated vegetables from the jar to the pot with the beef.

Pour in 10 cups broth and add the bay leaves.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer:

If beans were pre-soaked → cook about 1–1.5 hours until tender.

If not pre-soaked → simmer 2–2.5 hours, adding water as needed.

Step 3: Add Seasonings + Tomatoes

Stir in the seasoning packet from the jar.

Add 1 can diced tomatoes (with liquid).

Simmer an additional 20–30 minutes so flavors develop.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

In a separate pot, cook the pasta packet until just al dente.

Drain and stir into the soup just before serving (prevents mushy pasta).

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Remove bay leaves.

Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, crushed red pepper if you want more heat).

Serve hot, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and maybe a side of crusty bread.

✅ Tips for Olive Garden Vibes

Use beef broth for that restaurant-style richness.

A splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the flavor.

Garnish with fresh parsley or extra basil for color.