Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe brings the beloved flavors of the restaurant right to your kitchen. It’s a comforting, hearty soup that’s perfect for family dinners, cozy evenings, or meal prep for the week. With fresh vegetables and savory ground beef, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy it any time you want a taste of Italian comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Robust Flavor: Each spoonful is packed with a rich blend of spices and ingredients that create a satisfying taste experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can create this delightful soup.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside bread or salad for a complete meal.
• Freezer Friendly: This soup freezes well, making it great for meal prep or quick lunches.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and beans, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to make this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering soups; it allows ample space for all ingredients to blend perfectly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, saving you time in preparation.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps mix all ingredients evenly.

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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
• 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 (to taste)

For 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: Brown 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 the 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 along with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid allowing it to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While simmering, cook ditalini pasta following package instructions until al dente texture is achieved. Drain pasta once done.

Step 5: Finalize Soup

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

Step 6: Serve

Stir in fresh parsley just before serving. Enjoy warm topped with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese for added flavor!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can elevate the dining experience. Whether for a family meal or a cozy gathering, presentation and accompaniments can make all the difference. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve warm crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich soup. A baguette or ciabatta works beautifully.

Garnished with Herbs

• Top each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese at the table. Guests can add as much cheese as they like to their individual bowls for extra creaminess.

Paired with Salad

• A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Consider a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

As Part of a Meal Prep

• This soup is perfect for meal prep! Divide into single servings and store in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

To achieve an authentic taste reminiscent of Olive Garden’s classic dish, follow these tips. Each one will help you enhance the flavors and textures of your soup.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality broth make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference to find that perfect balance.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer can deepen the flavors even more. Aim for 30 minutes if time allows.
• Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add other beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach or zucchini could be great additions!
• Cook Pasta Separately: This helps prevent overcooking and ensures it maintains its texture when combined with the soup.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them without pasta. Cooked pasta can become mushy, so add it fresh when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread pairs perfectly with soup and allows for easy dipping.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a nice crunch alongside your soup.

3. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a vibrant starter.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring additional flavors that complement the soup well.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness and nutrition.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make for a hearty side that pairs nicely with pasta e fagioli.

7. Herbed Rice
   Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs provides an excellent base that absorbs some of the soup’s savory broth.

8. Antipasto Platter
   Include olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses for a flavorful mix that guests can nibble on before enjoying their soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking your ditalini pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente when boiling, as it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best flavor.
• Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting your vegetables too large can affect cooking time and texture. Dice them uniformly for even cooking and a pleasant mouthfeel.
• Using low-quality broth: A good broth is key to flavor. Use low-sodium chicken broth or make your own for a richer taste in your soup.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the simmering process won’t allow the flavors to meld properly. Letting it simmer for 15-20 minutes enhances the overall flavor.
• Forgetting garnishes: Missing out on fresh parsley or cheese can diminish presentation and taste. Always finish with garnishes for an added touch of freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; label containers with dates.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot; add broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe:

What makes this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe different?

This recipe features fresh ingredients and avoids any pork products or alcohol while maintaining robust flavors similar to the original.

Can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini or use different beans based on personal preference.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace ground beef with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

The total time is about 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it quick enough for a weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite beans or vegetables. It’s perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners at home. Try making this hearty soup today!