Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This delicious Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a warm and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this comforting soup is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd favorite. With its rich tomato broth, tender vegetables, and protein-packed beans, this recipe is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This Pasta e Fagioli is packed with lean ground beef, beans, and pasta, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this comforting soup ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the beans based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal option for those busy weeknights when you need something quick.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The blend of Italian seasonings and tender veggies will please even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will make cooking a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and plenty of space for all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots, helping to evenly combine flavors.

Ingredients

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli is an Olive Garden-inspired classic made right at home. Packed with lean ground beef, tender vegetables, beans, pasta, and Italian-seasoned tomato broth, this one-pot soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner—and it’s even better the next day.

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 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

For Seasoning

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes until browned. Break it apart into small pieces as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the cooked beef from the pot and drain excess fat. Set aside. In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.

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 thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the mixture. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving your homemade Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience. This rich soup can be enjoyed in several ways to enhance its flavors and make it a complete meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up that flavorful broth.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• Grating fresh Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory touch and pairs beautifully with the herbs in the dish.

Add Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil not only brightens the soup but also gives it a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Serve with Salad

• A light side salad complements the hearty characteristics of Pasta e Fagioli, balancing the meal perfectly.

Offer Garlic Knots

• These soft, buttery knots are a popular choice and provide a delicious way to enjoy every last drop of your soup.

Provide Hot Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a little heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes allows guests to customize their bowls.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Achieving the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the ingredients to simmer longer develops richer flavors. Aim for at least 10 minutes after adding all components.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, consider cooking the ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store in the fridge for deeper flavors.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like fresh basil or Parmesan; they add essential flavor dimensions.

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

Complementing your Pasta e Fagioli with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread
   The classic choice! Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping and adds satisfying crunchiness.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
3. Bruschetta
   Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, bruschetta offers a burst of flavor that pairs nicely.
4. Caprese Skewers
   Simple yet elegant, skewers with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a delightful appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These savory bites are filled with cheese and herbs, making them an ideal finger food alongside the hearty soup.
6. Antipasto Platter
   An array of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an enticing starter that complements Italian flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but many make common mistakes that affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta too long, it can become mushy. Add it towards the end and cook just until tender.
• Forgetting to drain beans: Not draining and rinsing canned beans can lead to a gritty texture. Always rinse to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth can dilute the flavors of your soup. Use a good-quality chicken broth for depth in taste.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient varies in saltiness. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright finish. Don’t skip garnishing; it enhances both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heating for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and ground beef in a flavorful broth. This copycat version replicates Olive Garden’s classic dish.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can add more vegetables or legumes for protein.

How do I make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) spicier?

To add spice, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking your vegetables. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! While Great Northern and kidney beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with black beans or pinto beans based on your taste.

How long does this soup last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this Pasta e Fagioli will last about 3–4 days. It also freezes well for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile. This recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s perfect for any meal occasion. Give this Olive Garden-inspired dish a try today!

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