Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Get the taste of Olive Garden’s famous Pasta e Fagioli soup at home with this delicious and easy-to-follow copycat recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish combines hearty ingredients to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken broth, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is nutritious and filling without being heavy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs wonderfully with salads or crusty bread.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for an easy meal later!

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly due to its thick walls, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

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Ingredients

Get ready to gather all the ingredients needed to prepare this delightful Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

For the Soup Base

• 1 cup Ditalini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (chopped)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 15 oz diced tomatoes

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried basil
• salt/pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Beans

• 1 cup water
• 15 oz red kidney beans (rinsed/drained)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (drained/rinsed)

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot.
1. Add Ditalini pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain and set aside once cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage

In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
1. Add Italian sausage to the pot.
2. Cook until browned and crumbly.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Using the same pot, add remaining olive oil.
1. Toss in minced garlic, diced onion, chopped carrots, and diced celery.
2. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt/pepper, Italian seasoning, cooked sausage, and water into the pot.
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low after boiling.
1. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add rinsed beans and cooked pasta into the soup.
1. Stir gently until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and enjoy your hearty Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm crusty bread or rolls for dipping, making every spoonful even more enjoyable.

Consider a Salad

• A light mixed green salad can balance the richness of the soup, adding freshness to your meal.

Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of savory goodness that complements the soup’s flavors.

Serve with Olive Oil Dipping Sauce

• Create a simple olive oil dip with herbs and spices for an added touch that pairs well with bread.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust spices and seasonings according to your personal preference for a balanced flavor profile.

• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving for optimal texture.

• Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time. This helps flavors meld together beautifully, making for a richer taste.

• Store Properly: If you plan to save leftovers, store pasta separately from the soup to maintain its texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

This delightful soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this buttery treat is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Caprese Skewers: These skewers feature cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side that complements the flavors of your meal.

6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances your dining experience.

7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters provide a delicious way to add veggies to your meal while being fun finger food!

8. Pesto Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in vibrant pesto brings brightness and complements the warm soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can be easy, but there are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong pasta type: Choosing a pasta that doesn’t hold up in soup can lead to a mushy texture. Stick with Ditalini as it’s perfect for this dish.
• Overcooking vegetables: If you cook your vegetables too long, they may lose their crunch and flavor. Aim for just enough time to soften them slightly.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning can result in bland soup. Always taste throughout the cooking process and adjust as needed.
• Skipping the simmer: Cooking the soup too quickly might prevent flavors from melding together. Allow it to simmer for at least 15 minutes for the best taste.
• Not rinsing beans: Rinsing canned beans is essential to remove excess sodium and preservatives. Take a moment to drain and rinse them before adding to your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, usually around 3-5 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

This dish is a homemade version of the famous Italian soup served at Olive Garden, featuring pasta, beans, and vegetables in a savory broth.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or switch up the beans based on your preference.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; just use about three times more fresh than dried.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try for a cozy meal that brings a taste of Italy right into your home!