Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the flavors of a beloved restaurant right to your kitchen. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even as a quick weeknight meal. Loaded with protein-rich beans and vibrant vegetables, it offers a warm and savory experience that will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time thanks to the Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without hours of prep.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with Italian spices, tender beans, and wholesome vegetables, this soup bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
• Healthy Option: With plenty of beans and veggies, this dish is not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, such as switching up the pasta or using different beans.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This appliance speeds up cooking time significantly while ensuring perfectly cooked ingredients every time.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work easier and quicker.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Protein & Beans

• 1 pound Italian Ground beef Sausage (Use mild or spicy. You can use 1:1 ground beef : Sausage. 16 oz/454 g.)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)
• 15 oz Kidney Beans (Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)

Tomatoes & Sauces

• 14 oz Diced Tomatoes (with juices. I used Diced tomatoes with basil, oregano & garlic. 1 can / 411 g.)
• 8 oz tomato sauce (226 g / 1 can.)
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (diluted in about 4 tbsp water.)

Vegetables

• 1 cup onion (roughly chopped. Use yellow or white onion.)
• 1.5 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup carrot (roughly cubed)
• 3/4 cup celery (roughly chopped. About 2 sticks.)

Pasta & Seasonings

• 1 cup Ditalini Pasta (you can use small elbow or shell pasta. Use 3/4 cups in that case.)
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/4 tsp oregano (dried from the bottle.)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (dried from the bottle.)
• 1.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (skip if heat intolerant. Use 1.5 tsp if you love spicy food.)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Broth & Garnishes

• 6 cups chicken stock (Use 7-7.5 cups for thinner soup. I used 4 better than bouillon cubes diluted in hot water.)
• Parsley (fresh flat leaf parsley chopped, use handful.)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (drizzle the soup.)
• Parmesan Cheese (grated. I did not use any)

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Set the Instant Pot on SAUTE & set it on HIGH heat. Add oil. When the oil becomes hot gently release the ground meat and sauté until nicely browned.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once browned, add chopped onion & garlic; sauté for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Throw in the chopped carrots and celery; stir well and sauté for another minute.

Step 4: De-glaze

Pour stock into the pot to de-glaze it well by scraping sides & bottom with a spatula.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

Next, add paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes & salt; stir everything together.

Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Add diced tomatoes (including juice), rinsed beans, pasta; mix thoroughly.

Step 7: Pressure Cook

CANCEL SAUTE function. Close lid of Instant Pot; seal valve and PRESSURE COOK on HIGH for just 4 minutes.

Step 8: Release Pressure

After cooking cycle ends, perform quick pressure release by moving valve from SEALING to VENTING position carefully open lid.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

The amazing wholesome Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli is ready! Serve almost immediately to prevent overcooking pasta.

Step 10: Garnish

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, crushed black pepper, grated parmesan if desired, and drizzles of extra virgin olive oil before enjoying!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Serving your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to enjoy this hearty soup:

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping. The bread complements the soup’s rich flavors perfectly.

Add a Simple Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs to elevate the presentation and add an aromatic touch.

Include Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: While optional, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the taste and richness of the soup.

Serve with Garlic Breadsticks

• Homemade or Store-bought: Garlic breadsticks are a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

To ensure your Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables can enhance the flavor significantly. Opt for high-quality canned beans and tomatoes for best results.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since pasta continues to cook in the hot soup after pressure cooking, use a slightly shorter cooking time if you prefer firmer pasta.

• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade chicken stock for a richer flavor compared to store-bought options.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Complement your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall experience:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soup’s creamy broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a tangy contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers creates an inviting starter.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a savory bite that complements the soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold Flavoring: Skipping or underestimating the seasonings can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning to suit your palate.
• Bold Meat Browning: Not browning the meat properly can result in a less flavorful base. Make sure to sauté until golden brown for depth of flavor.
• Bold Pasta Overcooking: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Follow the timing closely and add it at the right moment in the recipe for perfect texture.
• Bold Incomplete De-glazing: Neglecting to de-glaze the pot can cause a burn error. Scrape every bit off the bottom to ensure smooth cooking.
• Bold Ingredient Substitutions: Using incorrect substitutes could alter the dish significantly. Stick to recommended ingredients for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use different types of beans in Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match beans based on what you have on hand or prefer.

How do I adjust this recipe for vegetarian preferences?

You can easily omit the ground beef sausage and replace it with additional beans or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version!

What should I do if my pasta is overcooked in Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

If this happens, try adding a splash of broth when reheating to help restore some moisture.

How long does it take to cook Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

The total time is approximately 25 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I add more vegetables to my Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is not only comforting but also versatile enough for customization. You can add your favorite veggies or adjust spices according to your taste. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that warms both body and soul!