Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of Italy into your home. It combines fresh vegetables, hearty ground beef, and tender pasta for a comforting bowl of soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this recipe offers robust flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in under an hour.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Flavorful and Savory: The combination of spices brings out rich flavors that will warm your soul.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies or swap in different beans based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Getting ready to make the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is easy with the right tools. Having everything prepared before you start cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian-style soup, inspired by the beloved Olive Garden version. Packed with fresh vegetables, savory ground beef, and tender pasta, it offers a robust flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a hearty meal!

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (approximately 2 medium carrots)
• 1 cup diced celery (approximately 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 3 cans (8 oz each tomato sauce)
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each low-sodium chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup water (plus additional as needed)
• 1 can (15 oz diced tomatoes)

For Flavoring

• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz great northern beans, drained and rinsed)

For Garnish

• 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a separate plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables become tender, approximately 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, and diced tomatoes. Add the sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

While the soup is simmering, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If it’s too thick, add more broth or water as needed. Let it cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Serve

Stir in fresh parsley before serving hot topped with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serving this hearty soup can elevate your dining occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A warm baguette or rustic sourdough bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

Enhance with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a vibrant touch and extra flavor.

Add Cheese

• Sprinkle finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese on top for added creaminess and richness.

Offer a Side Salad

• A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Pair with Appetizers

• Consider serving bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms as starters to complement the flavors of the soup.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness to each bowl, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

For the best results in your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, consider these helpful tips that can make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a personalized touch.

• Cook pasta separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately prevents it from becoming too soft when added to the soup.

• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking will help meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance for an easy meal option later.

• Experiment with beans: While kidney and great northern beans are traditional, try swapping them out for other beans like cannellini or black beans for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter create a perfect crunchy companion.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and tanginess alongside the warm soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a filling side that echoes Italian flavors.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an inviting appetizer spread.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with herbs add color and nutrition to your table.
7. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries can be dipped into the soup or enjoyed alongside as a unique twist on traditional sides.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs brings lightness that balances out the heartiness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Boldly skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to less flavor in your soup. Always take the time to cook them until tender.
• Boldly undercooking the pasta: Adding undercooked pasta can make your soup soggy. Ensure you cook the ditalini until al dente before mixing it in.
• Boldly neglecting seasoning: Overlooking salt and pepper can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• Boldly rushing the simmering process: Quick cooking will not allow the flavors to meld. Simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Boldly forgetting about texture: Using too many beans or thickening agents can alter the consistency. Balance is key; stick to the recommended amounts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

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

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until evenly heated.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious recipe.

What is a Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

This recipe mimics the classic Italian-style soup served at Olive Garden, featuring ground beef, beans, and pasta.

Can I use different types of meat in my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version or use lamb for a unique twist.

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

The total time is approximately 50 minutes, which includes prep and cook time.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth while adding more beans for protein.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe stands out with its hearty blend of flavors and textures. It’s not just comforting but also highly customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices! Give it a try; you’ll love how versatile and satisfying it is!