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. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is quick and easy with minimal prep. Enjoy a delicious meal packed with protein and fiber that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or beans.

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.
• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to substitute beans or add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef and beans, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it ideal for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.

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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

Seasonings

• 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 to the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic to the same pot. Sauté these ingredients for about 4 minutes until they become softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Incorporate Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth into the mixture. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to let all flavors meld together.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is all about creating a warm and inviting experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that complements the soup’s savory notes.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and a pop of color to your bowl.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Italian Bread: Serve slices of warm Italian bread for dipping, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of soup.

Add Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the hot soup for a rich, nutty flavor that melds beautifully with the dish.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top can add creaminess and a delightful stretch when served.

Accompany with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a healthy balance and brighten up the meal.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to create an unforgettable dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for deeper, richer flavors.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or reduce the amount of broth. For a thinner soup, add more broth as needed.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize Your Beans: Feel free to experiment with different beans like black beans or cannellini beans for variety in taste and texture.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance for an easy meal prep option or leftovers.

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

When serving Pasta e Fagioli, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for dipping in broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with seasoned tomatoes provides a crunchy texture alongside the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutritional value while keeping things light.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a filling addition that pairs well with Italian cuisine.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side that complements the soup’s heartiness.
7. Antipasto Platter: A mix of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses adds variety and enhances your Italian theme.
8. Potato Wedges: Seasoned crispy potato wedges offer a delightful crunch alongside the smoothness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) even more delicious.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful broth. Always take the time to brown the meat well before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta for too long, it can become mushy. Add it in at the right time and taste regularly to ensure perfect texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Sometimes, store-bought broth can vary in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold broth or canned tomatoes straight from the fridge can lower the cooking temperature. Use room temperature ingredients for better results.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Letting your soup sit for a few minutes can enhance its taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Freeze for up to 2–3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! You can replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What beans should I use in Pasta e Fagioli?

Great Northern beans and kidney beans work well together, but feel free to mix in your favorite varieties!

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

You can add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it a great option for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. With options to customize ingredients based on your preferences, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try making this delightful soup today, and enjoy it with family and friends!