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 quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and just one pot, you can enjoy a delicious meal packed with protein and fiber. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your preferences. Serve it hot with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an inviting presentation that will warm both heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy Preparation: This recipe only requires 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with lean ground beef, beans, and pasta, it’s a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute beans or add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini based on your personal taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough volume to hold all the ingredients.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables ensures safety while preparing your ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts on vegetables, speeding up the prep time.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.

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 Liquid Components

• 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

Seasoning

• 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 ground beef and brown for 3–5 minutes.
* Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Using the same pot:
* Add diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
* Sauté for about 4 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked beef to the pot:
* Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Add:
* Great Northern beans,
* Kidney beans,
* Chicken broth.
Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in:
* Ditalini pasta,
* Italian seasoning,
* Salt,
* Pepper.
Cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot topped with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your warm bowl of Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with several accompaniments. This hearty soup can stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even more enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf pairs perfectly to soak up the rich broth. Consider a sourdough or baguette for an authentic touch.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the hot soup, enriching it with a creamy texture and savory taste.

Accompanied by Salad

• A light side salad, such as Caesar or mixed greens, offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of Pasta e Fagioli.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting this dish in individual bowls enhances the dining experience and allows everyone to enjoy their portion at their own pace.

Paired with Garlic Breadsticks

• Soft garlic breadsticks provide an irresistible side for dipping into the soup, adding extra flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Pasta e Fagioli, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a notable difference in taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to tweak Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper based on your preference.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the soup to simmer helps deepen flavors without overcooking the pasta.
• Customize with Veggies: Adding extra veggies like spinach or zucchini not only boosts nutrition but enhances flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This dish often tastes better the next day after flavors meld together—great for meal prep!
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best quality.

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

Complementing your Pasta e Fagioli with delicious side dishes elevates your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing adds brightness to your hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized appetizers are filled with herbs and cheese, complementing your Italian meal beautifully.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, artichokes, and cheeses adds variety and flavors that pair well with Pasta e Fagioli.
7. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries offer a unique twist while still keeping within Italian cuisine themes.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, they serve as a low-carb alternative that can be enjoyed alongside or under your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish every time.

• Bold flavorless broth: Using low-quality or bland broth can dull the dish’s flavor. Always choose a rich chicken broth for best results.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and ruins the texture of the soup. Cook ditalini just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Bold skipping seasonings: Inadequate seasoning leads to a lackluster taste. Use Italian seasoning generously and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Bold ignoring bean prep: Not rinsing canned beans can add excess sodium and affect flavor. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them to your soup.
• Bold neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like basil can lessen the soup’s freshness. Garnish with fresh basil before serving for enhanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until simmering and hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long does Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) last?

This dish lasts for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

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

What beans can I use in Pasta e Fagioli?

You can use Great Northern beans, kidney beans, or even black beans based on your preference.

Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to three months; just ensure it’s stored correctly.

What should I serve with Pasta e Fagioli?

Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that complements the soup perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!