Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat). This hearty Italian soup combines rich ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal packed with protein and fiber. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your preferences. Serve it hot with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an inviting presentation that warms both heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the beans, this dish will keep you satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out beans or add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini based on what you have on hand.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in just one pot.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for preparing in advance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together while allowing for even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, keeping your workspace organized.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

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

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

Seasoning

• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and brown it for about 3–5 minutes. Drain any excess fat after browning.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced carrots, onions, celery, and minced garlic to the same pot. Sauté these ingredients for approximately 4 minutes until they soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the mixture. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes so that flavors meld together.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning. Cook for another 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your Pasta e Fagioli hot. Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese as desired.

Enjoy this tasty Pasta e Fagioli that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is an opportunity to enhance its comforting flavors and create a delightful meal experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.

Crusty Bread

• Pair this hearty soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A rustic baguette or garlic bread works wonderfully.

Fresh Basil

• Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your bowl.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. This classic topping complements the savory broth and adds richness.

Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the meal. Consider a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.

Olive Oil Drizzle

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil serves as a finishing touch. It enhances the soup’s flavors and provides a silky texture.

Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a kick, serve red pepper flakes on the side. This allows guests to customize their heat level in the dish.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and creativity. Here are some tips to make it even better:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can add depth and aroma to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooked pasta, consider cooking ditalini separately and adding it just before serving for optimal texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and vibrant color in your soup.
• Make it Ahead: This dish often tastes better the next day! Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, freeze them in portions. It makes for an easy meal later on; just reheat when you’re ready!

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

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

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the soup perfectly with its buttery, garlicky goodness.
2. Caprese Salad
   This fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze adds brightness to your meal.
3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil offers a crunchy contrast to the soup’s softness.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add flavor and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   The melty goodness of grilled cheese pairs well with the soup for a comforting combo that both kids and adults love.
6. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and crackers provides variety and complements Italian flavors beautifully.
7. Spinach Salad
   A light spinach salad with nuts and berries can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty soup.
8. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice or quinoa mixed with vegetables for another satisfying option that aligns nicely with Italian cuisine traditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to brown it well before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta for too long, it can become mushy. Add it to the soup towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.
• Ignoring seasoning levels: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste your broth as you go, and adjust with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as needed.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold chicken broth can slow down cooking time. Warm it up slightly before adding it to the pot for a more efficient cooking process.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Skipping the simmering step can prevent flavors from melding. Allow at least 10 minutes of simmering after adding beans and tomatoes for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Store in an airtight container: Keep your Pasta e Fagioli in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• • Duration: It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• • Use freezer-safe containers: Ensure your soup is in containers that are safe for freezing.
• • Duration: You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

You can easily customize your Pasta e Fagioli by adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or substituting different beans based on your preference.

What can I serve with Pasta e Fagioli?

This Italian soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. You might also consider topping it with fresh basil or grated cheese.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

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

How do I store leftovers of Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Does Pasta e Fagioli taste better the next day?

Absolutely! The flavors continue to develop overnight, making leftovers even more delicious than when first made.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting and hearty but also offers versatility that makes it a favorite among many. Feel free to play with ingredients by adding your favorite beans or vegetables. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners!