Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe brings the rich, hearty flavors of Italian comfort food straight to your kitchen. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. With a blend of tender vegetables, savory ground beef, and al dente pasta, it’s an easy dish that feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a robust taste that warms your soul.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or as a starter; it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and beans, this soup is nutritious and satisfying without being heavy.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add more veggies or substitute different beans based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential tools that ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities of soup at once; it helps prevent spills while stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, enhancing your cooking experience.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

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)

For the Liquid

• 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 Final Touches

• 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 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. Add the sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and allow to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

While the soup is simmering, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If it appears too thick, add additional broth or water as needed. Let cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This hearty soup is a delightful choice for any meal. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and create a satisfying dining experience.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of pasta and beans for a filling meal.

Topped with Cheese

• Add finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese on top for a creamy texture and an extra burst of flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with minced fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. A warm baguette or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this flavorful dish.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions in appetizer cups as a starter at gatherings. This allows guests to enjoy the rich flavors without filling up too quickly.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting this recipe enhances its comforting qualities and ensures every bowl is delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to add more spices or salt according to your preference.
• Cook pasta separately: To avoid soggy pasta, cook it al dente separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; 30 minutes can make a difference in taste.
• Cool before storing: If making ahead, let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the soup while adding extra flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

3. Caprese Skewers
   These skewers made with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a light touch that complements the robust soup.

4. Italian Antipasto Platter
   A selection of marinated vegetables, olives, and cheeses offers variety and enhances Italian flavors.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese are savory bites that pair well with the soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables can provide additional nutrients and textures alongside your meal.

7. Focaccia Bread
   Soft focaccia topped with herbs is an excellent addition that’s perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

8. Bruschetta
   Fresh bruschetta made from diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds brightness to your meal while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful broth. Always ensure the beef is browned well before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Cook it al dente since it’ll continue to cook in the soup.
• Neglecting seasoning – Not seasoning at every stage can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using low-quality broth – Using a poor-quality broth can diminish the overall taste. Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken broth for better flavor.
• Ignoring vegetable size – Cutting vegetables unevenly may lead to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform sizes for even tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy reheating later.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about this recipe:

How do I make a vegetarian version of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

You can replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variation.

How spicy is this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

This recipe is not inherently spicy but you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder if you prefer some heat.

What should I serve with my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that warms the soul. Its robust flavors from fresh vegetables and savory ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the beans; the possibilities are endless!