Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), a hearty Italian soup that combines ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta in a savory broth. This recipe is versatile enough for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, making it a must-try. Enjoy its rich flavors and ease of preparation, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just one pot needed, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of ground beef, beans, and pasta in a savory broth creates a dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of beans to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Meal: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish makes for a nutritious option that satisfies hunger.
• Great for Leftovers: This Pasta e Fagioli tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or lunch.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking soup; it allows all ingredients to blend beautifully while providing ample space.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables easy and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the soup without scratching your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

• 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
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 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 the olive oil.
* Add the ground beef and brown for about 3–5 minutes.
* Drain any excess fat before proceeding.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot:
* Add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
* Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot:
* Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce until well combined.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Next:
* Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
* Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Finally:
* Stir in the ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
* 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 if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish to your family and friends.

With Crusty Bread

• Sliced baguette or ciabatta bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every drop of the savory broth.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and a fragrant aroma, elevating the dish’s overall taste and presentation.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

Served in Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls with a garnish of Parmesan cheese or extra herbs on top.

Paired with Garlic Breadsticks

• These soft and buttery sticks are ideal for dipping into the soup and add an extra layer of flavor.

With a Dash of Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy some heat, offering hot sauce on the side allows guests to spice up their servings according to their preference.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To create the best version of Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth significantly improve the soup’s taste. Choose organic where possible for added flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or herbs can make all the difference.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together. A 20-minute simmer can enhance the richness considerably.

• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooking, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This keeps the pasta al dente.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture without compromising flavor.

• Make Ahead: This dish often tastes better the next day. Preparing it in advance allows time for flavors to develop even more deeply.

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

Complementing your Pasta e Fagioli with delicious side dishes can turn your meal into an even more satisfying experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery sticks seasoned with garlic are perfect for dipping into your rich soup.

2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing with crunchy croutons adds freshness to your meal.

3. Antipasto Platter – A selection of marinated vegetables, olives, and cheeses provides a flavorful appetizer spread that pairs wonderfully with Italian dishes.

4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring a nutritious side that enhances your meal’s flavor profile.

5. Risotto – Creamy risotto flavored with herbs or mushrooms is an elegant side that complements the heartiness of Pasta e Fagioli beautifully.

6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a colorful and nutritious accompaniment to your soup.

7. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a refreshing burst of flavor that balances well with your dish.

8. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil provide a light yet flavorful side that enhances any Italian meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat can lead to a bland flavor. Always brown the ground beef to enhance the soup’s richness.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking, so it remains al dente.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull your flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth can make your soup taste flat. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for depth of flavor.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the simmering stage prevents flavors from developing. Let your soup simmer adequately to enrich its taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Will maintain quality for about 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) that might help you create this delightful dish.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of beans work best in this recipe?

Great Northern beans and kidney beans are ideal, but you can also use black beans or chickpeas based on your preference.

How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini, or even swap out beans for variety. It’s a versatile dish!

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better when made ahead as flavors meld together beautifully overnight.

What’s the best way to serve Pasta e Fagioli?

Serve it hot with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh basil or cheese on top for an inviting meal!

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but incredibly versatile. With options for customization and easy meal prep, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors and healthy ingredients!