Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful twist on a classic soup that warms the heart and fills the belly. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this hearty dish combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. With ground beef, nutritious vegetables, and two types of beans, it’s not just filling but also packed with protein and fiber. This recipe stands out with its comforting taste, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices elevates the taste, ensuring each spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.
• Hearty & Filling: With ground beef and beans, this dish provides a satisfying meal that keeps you full longer.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and allowing all flavors to meld together.
• Cutting board & Knife: Helps in safely preparing vegetables for easy chopping and dicing.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

This wonderfully hearty soup has it all. Protein from ground beef. Veggies from onions, carrots, and celery. Complex carbs from red kidney beans and cannellini beans.

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, chopped finely
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 celery ribs, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Liquid:

• 3 (8oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5oz) can beef broth
• 1 (14.5oz) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of water

For Seasoning:

• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and Pepper to taste

For the Pasta & Beans:

• 8 oz dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15oz) can dark red kidney beans drained and rinsed
• 1 (15oz) can cannellini beans drained and rinsed

For Serving:

• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no pink is showing. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked through, add in the chopped onions, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Combine with Liquids

Next, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, canned tomatoes, water, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring this mixture to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5–6 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Add in the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions for about 10 minutes or until both pasta and vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Add Beans & Serve

Stir in both types of beans until heated through. Adjust seasoning as necessary; if you prefer a thinner soup consistency, add more water. Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your mealtime experience. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich broth and adds texture to each bite.

With a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

With Grated Parmesan

• Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. It melts slightly into the hot soup, enriching the overall taste.

With Garlic Butter Toast

• Garlic butter toast makes a delicious side that complements the Italian flavors. Toast bread with garlic butter until golden brown for a crunchy addition.

As a Main Course

• This soup can be served as a standalone main dish. Its protein and fiber content make it filling and satisfying.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To create the best Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs add vibrant flavors that enhance the dish. Opt for fresh garlic, onions, and herbs whenever possible.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on your preference, you might want to tweak the spices. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.

• Cook pasta separately: For a less mushy texture, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This keeps it al dente.

• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for additional time melds all the flavors together beautifully. Just keep an eye on your pasta!

• Add a splash of vinegar: A dash of vinegar can brighten up the flavors in your soup without overpowering it. Use balsamic or red wine vinegar for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

2. Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth of your soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side option that complements the savory flavors of the soup.

4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and refreshing accompaniment.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa add a nutritious element that pairs well with hearty Pasta e Fagioli.

6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil creates a burst of flavor that enhances your meal’s Italian theme.

7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables gives a delightful variety alongside your soup.

8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add warmth and sweetness while balancing out the savory notes in your bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using low-quality beef – Quality matters! Opt for lean ground beef for better flavor and texture in your soup.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly – Uniformly chopped veggies ensure they cook at the same rate. Take your time when prepping!
• Forgetting to season well – Seasoning enhances flavor. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Overcooking the pasta – Ditalini pasta should be al dente; it will continue to cook in the soup. Keep an eye on it!
• Skipping the beans – Beans add protein and heartiness. Don’t leave them out or substitute them with less nutritious options.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or skip it altogether. You can add more beans and vegetables for protein.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Ditalini pasta works best because its small shape holds onto the flavors of the soup. However, you can use any small pasta if needed.

How can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Absolutely! Chicken broth will work fine and impart a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for any dinner table. Its rich flavors and customizable ingredients make it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make personal adjustments, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!