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 it’s also loaded with flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this recipe offers comfort and satisfaction in each savory spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that warms both the stomach and soul.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread for dipping; it’s a great addition to any meal.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup provides essential nutrients while being hearty and filling.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for making soups; it allows for even cooking and ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this delicious soup.

Ingredients

To create this comforting bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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)
• 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)
• 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, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced celery, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the empty side. Place the ground beef in the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the meat is cooked through, add minced garlic to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in both cans of chicken broth along with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Cook Pasta & Beans

Stir in ditalini pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans. Cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente—usually about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with freshly minced parsley along with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is a delight that can elevate any meal. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavors and making it even more enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up every delicious drop.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some freshly minced parsley or basil on top just before serving for an added burst of color and flavor.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup wonderfully.

Topped with Cheese

• Finely grated Romano or Parmesan cheese adds a creamy texture and salty flavor, making each spoonful irresistible.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls enhances the dining experience and allows guests to enjoy their servings at their own pace.

How to Perfect Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

To make sure your Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will elevate the overall taste of your soup.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust herbs and spices to match your personal preference for flavor intensity.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances its depth of flavor. Just be sure to check that it doesn’t thicken too much!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Complement your Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal experience:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, this classic choice is perfect for sopping up the soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar make for a light and flavorful pairing.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your meal.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty side that complements the flavors of the soup.

6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   A gooey grilled cheese sandwich offers comfort alongside the pasta e fagioli, especially great for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing your vegetables first enhances their flavor. Skip this, and your soup may taste flat.
• Using regular broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth instead of regular. This helps control the saltiness of the dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta separately or add it later to ensure it remains al dente in your soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings. Every ingredient varies in intensity, so personal preference matters.
• Not letting it simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This melds flavors and creates a deeper taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli that may help you.

What is Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

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

Can I customize Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap beans based on what you have on hand.

How do I make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for chilly evenings. It’s easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl filled with deliciousness!