Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is a comforting and hearty dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Packed with vegetables and rich Italian flavors, this soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful combination of beans and pasta, making it both filling and satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving a delicious soup, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This soup is brimming with Italian herbs and spices, ensuring every spoonful is packed with taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and beans, this soup provides plenty of nutrients for a healthy meal.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables and simmer the soup without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe, enhancing your prep time significantly.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Pasta e Fagioli Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbsp)
• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water, then more as desired
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp granulated sugar

For Seasoning

• 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

For Beans and Pasta

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

For Garnish

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

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Follow these steps to create your delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Crumble in the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat from the beef, then transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, heat another Tbsp of olive oil. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender, about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, canned tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, cooked beef back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, prepare ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 6: Add Beans & Pasta

Add the cooked pasta along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If desired, thin with more broth or water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Allow to cook for one more minute. Stir in minced parsley before serving warm topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is best enjoyed warm and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just enjoying a bowl for yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette makes for the perfect companion. Tear off a piece to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks add a wonderful flavor contrast and make for excellent dunkers.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Romano Cheese: A sprinkle of finely shredded Romano cheese enhances the Italian flair and adds creaminess to every bite.
• Parmesan Shavings: For a richer taste, serve with thin shavings of Parmesan cheese that melt slightly into the soup.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Minced fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness to each bowl.
• Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves as garnish can enhance the aromatic experience and complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Perfecting Pasta e Fagioli Soup is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• bold flavor balance: Ensure you balance the spices well. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• bold ingredient quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and broth for better depth of flavor in your soup.
• bold al dente pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta separately until it’s al dente before adding it to the soup. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• bold simmer time: Allow your soup to simmer long enough for all flavors to meld together but avoid overcooking the vegetables for optimal texture.
• bold additional vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor variety.
• bold storage tips: If making ahead, store pasta separately from the soup. Combine them just before serving to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter pairs beautifully as a crunchy counterpart.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a light touch.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a filling addition alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and provide a nutritious side option.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that complements the flavors of the soup.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting starter before the main course.
8. Simple Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans dressed in olive oil add color and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} from good to great.

• Skipping the Sauté: Many overlook sautéing the vegetables, which adds depth. Always sauté onions, carrots, and celery for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente and add it just before serving to maintain texture.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper to enhance the dish.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A bland broth can ruin your soup’s flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock for richness.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs boost flavor. Add fresh parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through until hot, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap in any canned beans you like, such as black beans or pinto beans for variety.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made a day in advance as the flavors meld together beautifully.

What goes well with Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

How can I thicken my soup?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in or add more beans.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans. Try this delicious recipe today and enjoy its rich Italian flavor!