Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is an Olive Garden-inspired classic made right at home. Perfect for any occasion, this one-pot soup combines lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful beans in a rich tomato broth. Ideal for cozy lunches or dinners, its robust flavors only improve with time, making it a fantastic dish to enjoy the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try.

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish keeps you satisfied and energized.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors and textures, making it an easy win for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without splatter.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pots.
• Knife: A good quality knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

For the Broth

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add the ground beef.
– Cook for 3–5 minutes while breaking it apart into small pieces until browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the cooked beef from the pot. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
– In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic.
– Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot.
– Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
– Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
– Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

Step 5: Incorporate Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
– Cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot.
– Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance the flavor and presentation of your Olive Garden-inspired dish.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup.

Garnished with Parmesan

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to add a savory, nutty flavor that complements the soup.

Served with Fresh Basil

• Adding a few fresh basil leaves not only enhances the dish’s aroma but also adds a burst of color.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the Pasta e Fagioli and adds freshness to your meal.

As a Standalone Meal

• This soup is hearty enough to be enjoyed alone, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a cozy presentation, ideal for gatherings or family dinners.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Creating the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out just right.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meats enhance flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld flavors together beautifully.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For firmer pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days without sacrificing taste.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to maintain the soup’s texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can make for a delightful meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this comforting soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor while soaking up the tasty broth.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing enhances flavor while providing a refreshing contrast.
3. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer bright flavors in bite-sized portions.
4. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates an elegant starter that pairs beautifully with Italian cuisine.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs add a luxurious touch alongside your hearty soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring vibrant colors and nutrients, elevating your meal’s overall presentation and healthiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect the overall flavor. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it for too long can lead to mushy results. Follow the timing in the recipe to ensure perfect texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables at the beginning enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a rich soup base.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container to keep flavors intact.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables for protein.

What type of beans should I use?

Great Northern beans and kidney beans are traditional, but feel free to use any preferred variety.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli recipe?

You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or even use different pasta shapes based on what you have on hand.

Is Pasta e Fagioli suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well and retains its flavor, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home!