Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), a hearty Italian soup that combines the richness of ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta in a savory broth. This dish is perfect for various occasions, from busy weeknights to cozy family dinners. The standout qualities of this recipe include its quick preparation, rich flavors, and adaptability to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and fiber from beans, this soup is satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or beans to make it your own.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy clean-up thanks to the simplicity of cooking everything in one pot.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for simmering the ingredients together without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Broth

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasoning

• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and brown it for 3–5 minutes. Drain any excess fat before moving on.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Sauté diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic in the same pot for about 4 minutes until they are softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot along with diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth into the mixture. Bring to a simmer for 10 minutes to let all flavors meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) soup is not only delicious but also versatile in how it can be served. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A rustic Italian loaf or garlic bread adds a nice crunch and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped basil. The herb enhances the dish’s aroma and adds a pop of color.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad. A mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. This classic addition provides extra creaminess and depth to each spoonful.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in edible bread bowls. This adds an interactive element to your meal and makes clean-up easier!

As Part of a Family Style Meal

• Present the soup family-style in a large pot on the table. Guests can help themselves, making for a cozy gathering atmosphere.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To make your Pasta e Fagioli truly shine, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – To prevent overcooking, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking enhances its flavors as they meld together.
• Add Extra Veggies – Feel free to incorporate spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Make It Ahead – This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance for meal prep convenience.

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

Complement your hearty soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft dough twisted into knots, baked until golden, and brushed with garlic butter for an irresistible treat.
2. Caprese Salad – A refreshing combination of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms stuffed with herbs and cheese make for an elegant bite-sized addition.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide flavor depth and balance to the meal.
5. Antipasto Platter – A colorful assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, roasted peppers, and cheeses offers variety and excitement.
6. Polenta Fries – Crispy fried polenta sticks seasoned with herbs create a deliciously crunchy side that pairs well with soup.
7. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a fresh appetizer that’s perfect for sharing.
8. Mixed Green Salad – Lightly dressed mixed greens add freshness and crunch that balances out the richness of Pasta e Fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong pasta: Different pasta shapes can dramatically change the texture of the soup. Stick with ditalini or similar small pasta for best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before serving.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they are softened to maintain their texture.
• Skipping the broth: Using only water instead of broth will lead to a lack of flavor. Always use chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Ignoring leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day! Don’t hesitate to save any leftovers for a delicious meal later.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) that may help you.

Can I make this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables like spinach and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.

What kinds of beans work best?

Great Northern beans and kidney beans are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like black beans or chickpeas.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust spices to suit your tastes.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different beans or veggies based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!