Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe brings the comforting warmth of a classic Italian-American dish right into your kitchen. Perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests, this hearty soup combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. With protein from ground beef and a medley of vegetables, it’s a delicious option for any occasion, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in just 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the vegetables or beans based on what you have at home for a personalized touch.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make this pasta e fagioli a hit with children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools for an efficient experience. Having everything on hand will streamline your process as you create this delightful soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking all the ingredients evenly while allowing plenty of space for simmering.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables, which enhances the texture of your soup.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your recipe.

Ingredients

This wonderfully hearty soup has it all. Protein from ground beef. Veggies from onions, carrots, and celery. Complex carbs from red kidney beans and cannellini beans.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, chopped finely
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 celery ribs, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 (8oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5oz) cans beef broth
• 1 (14.5oz) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of water
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano

For the Pasta and Beans

• 8 oz dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

For Serving

• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for serving
• Salt and Pepper to taste

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until no pink is showing.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir occasionally until they soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, add tomato sauce, beef broth, canned tomatoes, water, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring this mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for 5–6 minutes before adding the ditalini pasta. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until both pasta and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Beans

Stir in the kidney and cannellini beans. Cook until heated through. If you’d like a thinner soup consistency, add more water as needed.

Step 6: Final Touches

Make sure everything is well combined and that beans are hot. Serve warm with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, perfect for sharing with family or savoring solo!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s filling and flavorful, making it a great choice for dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious, buttery complement.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette adds a nice crunch and is perfect for dipping.

With Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Garden Salad: Fresh mixed greens topped with your favorite veggies add brightness to the meal.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkling fresh Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor with a savory touch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can bring a creamy element to your bowl of soup.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To make your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Make it Ahead: Prepare this soup in advance, as it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and beef broth for a richer taste.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or add more pasta.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make a tasty addition.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing blend of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection add color and health benefits.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide delightful bites.
5. Focaccia Bread: This Italian flatbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that might affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using too little seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for enhancing flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta should be al dente. Cook it separately if needed, then add it just before serving.
• Skipping the beans: Beans add protein and texture. Don’t omit them; they’re essential for a hearty soup.
• Not simmering long enough: Simmering helps flavors meld. Allow at least 5-10 minutes for the best taste.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Use fresh onions, garlic, and herbs whenever possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that can make your soup lighter while still providing protein.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long does Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli last?

This soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape you prefer, but ditalini works best for this recipe.

Is there a way to make this dish spicy?

To add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is not just hearty and comforting; it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using alternative proteins. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep!