Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Hearty and comforting, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is perfect for any occasion. This rich Italian soup combines ground beef, beans, and vegetables in a flavorful tomato broth. Whether it’s a chilly day or a family gathering, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on cold days.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beef, beans, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal as a main dish or as a starter to accompany your favorite Italian meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Essential for cooking large quantities efficiently and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the recipe’s balance of flavors.

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Ingredients

Hearty Italian soup with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta in rich tomato broth. Perfect comfort food for cold days!

Protein

• 2 pounds ground beef

Vegetables

• 12 ounces chopped onion
• 14 ounces slivered carrots
• 14 ounces diced celery
• 48 ounces canned diced tomatoes

Beans

• 2 cups cooked, drained red kidney beans
• 2 cups cooked, drained white kidney beans

Broth and Sauces

• 2 3/4 quarts beef broth
• 48 ounces marinara sauce

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce

Pasta

• 8 ounces small shell macaroni (or other small dried pasta shape)

Garnish

• 5 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon until it begins to brown.
3. Stir in the chopped onions, slivered carrots, diced celery, and canned tomatoes. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Add both types of beans to the pot along with beef broth, dried oregano, pepper, Tabasco sauce, and marinara sauce.
2. Simmer for approximately 45 minutes or until the celery and carrots are tender.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

1. Stir in the small shell macaroni and continue simmering until the pasta is cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) hot and savor every spoonful!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This hearty soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, adding a satisfying texture and flavor contrast.

Topped with Parmesan

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients beautifully.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A crisp side salad can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls not only looks appealing but also allows guests to enjoy their portions at their own pace.

With Extra Herbs

• Garnishing with extra fresh parsley or basil can elevate the presentation and add an aromatic touch to each serving.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

To make your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your personal preference for maximum flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately helps prevent it from becoming mushy when stored as leftovers. Add it just before serving.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Just be sure to check on it occasionally.
• Experiment with Beans: You can mix different types of beans or even add lentils for added nutrition and variety.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. The soup tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Pairing sides with this comforting soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that provides a crunchy texture and rich garlic flavor perfect for scooping up soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce dressed with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light side that complements the hearty dish.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   Melty cheese between toasted bread makes for a comforting side that is always a hit alongside any soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables add an extra layer of flavor while being nutritious.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies bring sweetness and depth—great for balancing out the savory elements of the soup.

7. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses can offer varied textures and flavors that pair beautifully with the soup.

8. Baked Zucchini Fries
   Crispy zucchini fries are a fun finger food option that adds crunchiness alongside your warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredient Substitutions: Using the wrong types of beans or pasta can alter the soup’s texture. Stick to red and white kidney beans and small pasta shapes for authenticity.
• Bold Ignoring Simmering Time: Skipping the simmering stage can lead to undercooked vegetables. Allow at least 45 minutes for the flavors to meld and the veggies to soften.
• Bold Not Browning the Beef Properly: If you add the onions and vegetables too soon, your beef won’t develop that rich flavor. Ensure the beef is browned before adding other ingredients.
• Bold Overloading on Spices: Adding too much oregano or Tabasco can overpower the dish. Use these seasonings sparingly and taste as you go.
• Bold Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Leaving out fresh parsley diminishes flavor. Always stir in fresh herbs right before serving for that burst of freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Freeze in suitable containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquid expands when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring regularly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe).

What makes this soup so comforting?

The combination of hearty ground beef, beans, and tender vegetables creates a satisfying meal perfect for cold days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in different vegetables or pasta types according to your preference or what’s on hand.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and ensure all sauces are plant-based for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

What can I serve with this soup?

This robust soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is not just a delightful dish; it’s also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this warm bowl of comfort any day!