Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

When the weather turns chilly or you just need a soul-warming dish, nothing quite hits the spot like a bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli. This hearty soup is not only a crowd-pleaser but also loaded with flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe stands out for its comforting taste and nutritious ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of spices and herbs creates a rich taste that will warm you up from the inside out.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with beans, vegetables, and lean protein, this dish is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside your favorite bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! It’s great for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these items on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for quicker preparation while enhancing safety.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onions
• 1 cup diced celery stalks (around 3 stalks)
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium-sized)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) (approximately 1 tablespoon)
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each low-sodium chicken broth)
• 3 cans (8 oz each tomato sauce)
• 1 can (15 oz diced tomatoes)
• ½ cup water (add more if necessary)

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
• ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for subtle smoky depth)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for gentle heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Final Touches

• 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)
• 3 tablespoons freshly minced parsley
• Finely grated Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and ground beef to the empty side. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with your wooden spoon.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and water. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Season Your Soup

Add granulated sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your pot. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Pasta and Beans

Add ditalini pasta along with both types of beans into your soup mixture. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After cooking, remove from heat. Stir in minced parsley before serving. Top each bowl with grated cheese if desired.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli any time you crave warmth and nourishment!

How to Serve Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

This comforting soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, here are some delightful ways to serve Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli.

Perfect Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks complement the soup beautifully and add a touch of indulgence.

Garnishes for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly minced parsley adds brightness and freshness to each bowl.
• Grated Cheese: Top with finely grated Romano or Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish.

Serving Style

• In Individual Bowls: For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual bowls, allowing guests to enjoy their portions.
• Family Style: Present the soup in a large pot on the table for a communal feel, letting everyone help themselves.

How to Perfect Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Creating the perfect bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables like onions and carrots for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference; this ensures balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cook ditalini pasta separately and stir it into the soup just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli enhances the dining experience. Here are some top suggestions.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction perfectly complement the flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while providing a delicious side option.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be made ahead and served warm alongside your soup for extra heartiness.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits with garlic and cheese are an irresistible addition that pairs well with any soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers a variety of textures and tastes that enhance the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using high-sodium broth: Always opt for low-sodium chicken broth. This helps control the saltiness of the dish and allows you to adjust seasoning to your preference.

• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta should be cooked al dente before adding it to the soup. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and affect the overall texture of your dish.

• Neglecting fresh herbs: Freshly minced parsley adds brightness and flavor. Skipping this step can result in a less vibrant dish. Always finish with fresh herbs for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient preparation: Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Disparate sizes can lead to uneven textures in your soup.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you cook! Different brands of ingredients can vary in flavor, so adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.

• Rushing the cooking process: Allow time for flavors to meld by simmering adequately. Rushing this step can lead to a less flavorful soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli:

What is Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

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

Can I make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach or switch up the beans based on your preferences for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

How long does Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli take to cook?

The total time is about 50 minutes, including prep time (15 minutes) and cooking time (35 minutes).

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is not just a comforting bowl of goodness; it’s also versatile enough for customization. Whether you prefer it richer with additional veggies or lighter by swapping out proteins, this recipe suits any palate. Try it today and enjoy its delightful flavors!