Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian soup that many love. It brings together fresh vegetables, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting friends or need a comforting weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to impress. Its robust flavors and nourishing ingredients make it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: Each bowl is filled with savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs that create a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or served alongside a salad or bread, this soup fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with nutritious beans and veggies, it’s not only delicious but also wholesome.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the comforting flavors of this soup, making it a hit for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup and combining all ingredients effectively.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables, saving time in preparation.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of soup without spills.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 Seasoning

• 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 Beans and Pasta

• 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 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. 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 before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and allow to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

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

Step 5: Add Beans & Pasta

Stir in cooked ditalini pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into your soup mixture. If too thick, add additional broth or water as needed. Let cook for one more minute.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can enhance the meal, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for a perfect dipping companion.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette adds a delightful crunch and is great for scooping up the soup.

Garnished with Cheese

• Romano or Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle finely shredded cheese on top for added flavor and richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil as a vibrant garnish.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the hearty soup with its crisp greens and creamy dressing.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Lighten the meal with a refreshing mixed greens salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure a delicious outcome every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of the soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference; every palate is different.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the ditalini pasta al dente before adding it to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors, making it even more robust and satisfying.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a fresh, flavorful contrast.
2. Caprese Salad: This salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness to your meal.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices complement the heartiness of the soup.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These soft biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a nutritious and colorful addition to your table.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served with tortilla chips makes for a great starter before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Boldly skip the sauté: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables can lead to a flat flavor. Always sauté onions, carrots, and celery to build a flavorful base.

• Boldly rush the simmer: Skipping the simmering step can result in undercooked vegetables. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for the best texture and taste.

• Boldly ignore seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish properly can make it bland. Taste your soup as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually for depth.

• Boldly overcook pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for an al dente texture before adding it to the soup.

• Boldly skimp on garnishing: Not garnishing with fresh parsley or cheese can diminish presentation and flavor. Take a moment to add these finishing touches before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer; just remember to label with date.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm soup in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

What is the focus keyphrase for this recipe?

The focus keyphrase is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, which highlights its inspiration from Olive Garden’s famous dish.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with different beans like black beans or pinto beans if desired.

How can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

You can add more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is great for meal prepping, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply omit it entirely while adding more beans or lentils for protein.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of beans. Try this delicious recipe today!