Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Italian soup. Packed with hearty ground beef, nutritious vegetables, and tender pasta, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With its robust flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe brings the warmth of a home-cooked meal to your table. Ideal for any occasion, this comforting soup will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a complete meal in one bowl.
• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute or add your favorite veggies and beans to customize the flavor profile.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the tender pasta and rich flavors—making it an easy way to get them to enjoy their veggies!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the right tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This allows you to cook all ingredients together without overflow, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot and helps break apart meat while cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients ensures consistent flavors every time.

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 Pasta & 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 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 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 into the pot. Add the sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

While simmering, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If necessary, adjust thickness with more broth or water. Let cook for an additional minute.

Step 7: Serve

Stir in fresh parsley before serving warm. Top each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a wonderful opportunity to enhance the meal experience. This hearty soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that can elevate its flavors and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup, adding texture and flavor.

Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the robust flavors of the soup.

Garlic Bread

• Serve with garlic bread to add a savory twist, making it an excellent pairing for that comforting feeling.

Grated Cheese Topping

• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese makes for a delightful garnish, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds freshness and color, making your bowl visually appealing.

Lemon Wedge

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory soup.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

To achieve the best version of this beloved soup, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and overall quality of your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta al dente separately helps prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances the melding of flavors.
• Add Extra Broth if Needed: If your soup thickens too much as it sits, add more broth or water before serving.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different beans based on your personal preference for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery knots served with marinara sauce make for a delicious addition.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds a refreshing crunch.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese are an elegant complement.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings extra flavor and nutrition to your meal.
5. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a bright appetizer option.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting start to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and quality ground beef. Fresh produce enhances the flavor of the soup significantly.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente texture, as it will continue cooking in the soup.

• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Tasting is crucial. Make sure to season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced flavor.

• Not simmering long enough: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes.

• Ignoring thickness adjustments: If your soup is too thick after adding pasta, add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

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

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe that may help you enjoy it even more.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and can provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

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

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

What type of beans are best for this recipe?

Both kidney beans and great northern beans work well in this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe due to their texture and flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

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

The total time is about 50 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not just hearty but also versatile. You can easily make it your own by incorporating different vegetables or adjusting spices based on your preference. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, so give it a try!