Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Love restaurant-style comfort food? This copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli delivers everything you want in a bowl — it’s a hearty, quick dinner packed with ground beef, beans, pasta, and rich Italian flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep sessions, this recipe is not only satisfying but also easy to whip up at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one pot; enjoy more time with family and friends.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for reheating during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

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 cooking soups; allows ample space for all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables, leading to even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while combining flavors.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Broth and Beans

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook Garlic and Beef

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in kidney beans, cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook Ditalini Pasta

Meanwhile, cook ditalini pasta separately until al dente according to package directions. Drain well.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Soup

Stir cooked pasta into the soup just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and making the meal feel complete. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the rich soup, providing a crunchy texture.
• Crusty Italian Loaf: Slice and serve with olive oil for dipping, adding a rustic touch to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan adds depth and creaminess.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A light salad with romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing complements the hearty soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with a vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

To make your Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli truly memorable, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality beef broth for richer taste. Homemade or low-sodium options work great.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables when possible. They provide better flavor than canned or frozen options.
• Al Dente Pasta: Cook ditalini pasta separately until just al dente before adding it to the soup to avoid mushiness.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go. Adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli can enhance your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes a fresh starter.
2. Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar offer a light complement.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and herbs create a hearty side that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add nutrition and flavor contrast.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrectly measuring ingredients: Always use precise measurements for your ingredients. Too much or too little can alter the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Don’t rush this process. Sautéing the vegetables before adding other ingredients builds a deeper flavor base for your soup.
• Overcooking pasta: Cook ditalini pasta separately until just al dente. It should be added to the soup just before serving to maintain its texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! Making adjustments with salt and pepper is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
• Not using quality broth: The broth is a key component. Opt for a good quality beef broth to enhance the overall taste of your Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli.
• Ignoring storage tips: Properly store leftovers in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This dish will remain fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered baking dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli:

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli spicier?

To add some heat, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

What sides go well with Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even stuffed breadsticks for a complete meal.

Can I use different types of beans in my Pasta E Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep alike. Give it a try — your family will love it!