Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Indulge in the warmth and comforting flavors of this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe, a delightful Italian-American soup that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. Loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty beans simmered in a rich broth, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. It’s not just filling; it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Easy to prepare in about 40 minutes, this pasta e fagioli will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can be made in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from ground beef and fiber from beans, it’s a healthy option for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe makes enough to feed six people, ensuring you’ll have delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this amazing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and simmering the soup without splattering.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even pieces for better cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can red kidney beans (14 oz, drained)
• 1 can cannellini beans (14 oz, drained)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked ditalini pasta to the pot. Simmer until tender (about 15–20 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its hearty flavors while providing a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Adding fresh basil or parsley as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a classic pairing that complements the soup’s rich taste.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of savory flavor that melts beautifully into the soup.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Serving in individual bowls makes it feel special and allows guests to enjoy their servings at their own pace.

With a Side Salad

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To achieve the best results with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, follow these helpful tips for a delicious and satisfying dish.

• Bold Choice of Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor. Fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more beans. This will give it a heartier consistency.

• Layer Flavors: Sauté your vegetables until they are soft and fragrant before adding liquids. This brings out their natural sweetness.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents overcooking and mushiness.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can enhance the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here’s a list of delightful accompaniments.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons create a refreshing contrast.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices add variety and nutrition.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for an excellent appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide a healthy complement to the soup.
5. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer bright flavors.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A warm grilled cheese made with gooey cheese pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great.

• Using Too Much Liquid: While broth is essential, adding too much can make the soup watery. Stick to the recipe’s proportions for the best results.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs offer a brighter flavor. If available, use fresh herbs to enhance the dish.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta directly in the soup can lead to mushy textures. For better results, cook the ditalini separately and add it just before serving.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not Sautéing Vegetables Properly: Sautéing vegetables at the right temperature helps develop their flavors. Ensure they are tender but not burnt for a balanced taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that you might find helpful.

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta simmered in a rich broth.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

This recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick dinner option.

Can I use different types of beans in my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can mix different beans such as black beans or chickpeas based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for various tastes. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different herbs. It’s a delightful dish that everyone will love!