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. Its standout qualities include quick preparation and customization options, making it a beloved choice for many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from ground beef and beans, this soup is satisfying enough to serve as a main course.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or beans, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors deepen after sitting overnight, making it an excellent option for lunches throughout the week.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Rich flavors and warm ingredients create a comforting experience that feels like home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having these items on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for making soups like Pasta e Fagioli; it allows ample space for all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables fast and efficient, saving you time in preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your soup has the perfect balance 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 Flavoring

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

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 Ground Beef

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Sauté the diced carrots, onion, celery, and 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 the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir everything together until combined.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 10 minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your hearty soup hot with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this delightful meal with crusty bread!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its hearty flavors and making it a comforting meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or ciabatta pairs perfectly with this soup, allowing you to soak up the rich broth.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch and brightens the dish, enhancing its Italian roots.

Accompanied by Grated Parmesan

• Serving with grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy texture and salty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

As a Standalone Meal

• This soup is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, making it an excellent choice for a light dinner option.

Paired with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory soup.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Creating the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for deeper flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; feel free to add extra Italian seasoning or herbs according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To avoid mushy pasta, slightly undercook it before adding it to the soup. It will continue cooking in the hot broth.
• Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to rest for 10 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Customize Your Beans: Experiment with different bean varieties like black beans or cannellini beans for added texture and flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread
   The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread makes it an irresistible accompaniment.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide color and healthy nutrients alongside your soup.

4. Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms
   These bite-sized appetizers filled with cheese make for a delightful starter before your main dish.

5. Italian Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an enticing appetizer spread.

6. Spinach Salad
   A spinach salad topped with nuts and a light dressing brings freshness to your meal while balancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong beans: Different beans have distinct textures and flavors. Stick to Great Northern and kidney beans for the best result.
• Overcooking the pasta: This can make your soup mushy. Add ditalini pasta in the last 10 minutes of cooking to keep it al dente.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Neglecting vegetable prep: Chopping carrots, celery, and onion uniformly helps them cook evenly. Take time for proper dice size.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can affect flavor and texture. Follow specific guidelines for leftovers to maintain quality.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based protein or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preferences.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

You can use any small pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni or mini shells.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans!