This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Italian soup, capturing the essence of the beloved dish from Olive Garden. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Packed with hearty ingredients like tender beef, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta, this recipe brings comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this soup will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that will warm your heart.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite beans or vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prepping.
• Hearty and Filling: With protein from the beef and fiber from the beans, it’s a satisfying dish that keeps you full.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while allowing room for all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for achieving the best flavor balance in your dish.

this recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (approximately 2 medium carrots)
• 1 cup diced celery (approximately 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water (plus additional as needed)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a separate plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables become tender, approximately six minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, and diced tomatoes. Add the sugar along with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid allowing it to simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes or until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

While the soup is simmering, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain when finished.

Step 5: Final Touches

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If it’s too thick, add extra broth or water as needed. Let everything cook together for one more minute.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Stir in fresh parsley before serving warm topped with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is just as important as making it! This hearty soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in several delightful ways, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette are excellent choices to soak up the delicious broth.

Top with Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese for added flavor and creaminess.

Include Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top to enhance the presentation and add a pop of color.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for a healthy side that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

Offer a Side of Antipasto

• Create a small antipasto platter with olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. They enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Season Gradually: Taste as you go. Add salt, pepper, and herbs gradually to build layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook your ditalini pasta until it’s al dente. It will absorb less broth and maintain its texture in the soup.

• Adjust Thickness: If your soup is too thick after adding pasta and beans, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli enhances the meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all that delicious broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide bright flavors that balance the heartiness of the soup.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that complements the richness of Pasta e Fagioli without overpowering it.

5. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil makes a flavorful appetizer that works well before serving soup.

6. Roasted Bell Peppers
   Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and sweetness to your meal while providing a healthy veggie option alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta e fagioli can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Boldly skip the browning step. Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a bland soup. Always ensure it’s fully cooked and browned for deeper flavor.
• Boldly rush the vegetables. Not allowing the vegetables to sauté long enough results in a crunchy texture. Sauté until they are tender to enhance the soup’s overall taste.
• Boldly ignore seasoning adjustments. Overlooking salt and pepper can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly for optimal flavor.
• Boldly skip simmering time. Shortening the simmering time prevents the flavors from melding together. Allow at least 15 minutes of simmering for a richer taste.
• Boldly forget about pasta cooking separately. Adding uncooked pasta directly to the soup can make it mushy. Always cook pasta al dente separately before combining it with the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

How long does it take to make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

The total time is approximately 50 minutes, including both preparation and cooking.

Can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables or swap beans based on your preferences.

What is served with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide wonderful flavors in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe offers comfort and warmth while being easily customizable to suit your taste. Whether you want to add more veggies or try different beans, this hearty soup will surely please everyone at your table. Give it a try today!

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Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Savor the warmth and heartiness of our Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, a delightful take on the beloved Italian soup. This comforting dish is brimming with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and ditalini pasta, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Packed with flavor from herbs and spices, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it to impress guests, this Pasta e Fagioli will bring smiles to every table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (approximately 2 medium carrots)
• 1 cup diced celery (approximately 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water (plus additional as needed)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a separate plate.
2. In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables become tender, approximately six minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, and diced tomatoes. Add the sugar along with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid allowing it to simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes or until vegetables are soft.
4. While the soup is simmering, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain when finished.
5. Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup. If it's too thick, add extra broth or water as needed. Let everything cook together for one more minute.
6. Stir in fresh parsley before serving warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize with your favorite vegetables or additional beans for variety. For an added flavor boost, let the soup rest before serving to meld the flavors together.