Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful treat that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This rich and hearty soup is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weeks ahead. With its vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a savory broth, you’ll find it hard to resist seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious soup without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed – The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your personal preference.
• Hearty and Filling – This soup is not only flavorful but also satisfying, making it a great choice for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – A sturdy pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space for mixing.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps you combine everything thoroughly.
• Chef’s knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

this recipe

Ingredients

To create this mouth-watering Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 tsp. minced garlic

For the Broth

• 3 8oz. cans tomato sauce
• 2 14.5oz. cans low sodium beef broth
• 1 14.5oz. can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 15oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 15oz. can cannellini beans, drained
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Topping

• Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat before returning it to the stove.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with cooked beef. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Broth Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, along with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your soup simmers, bring a small pot of water to boil separately. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions until al-dente.

Step 5: Add Beans

Once the soup has simmered for 10 minutes, stir in both the drained kidney beans and cannellini beans. Allow them to heat through while checking seasoning; add more water if you prefer a thinner soup.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Soup

Drain your cooked pasta before adding it directly into the soup mixture. Stir everything together gently until well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate the dining experience, making it feel more like a restaurant meal. Here are some suggestions to make your soup presentation and enjoyment even better.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a burst of flavor.
• Basil leaves: Whole basil leaves can enhance the Italian essence of the dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment to scoop up the hearty soup.
• Ciabatta rolls: Soft on the inside with a crunchy crust, great for dipping.

Add a Touch of Cheese

• Parmesan shavings: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor profile.
• Mozzarella balls: Placing a few mini mozzarella balls on top provides creaminess.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Rustic bowls: Use rustic-style bowls for a cozy feel that complements the soup’s heartiness.
• Clear glass bowls: Show off the vibrant colors of the soup for an appealing presentation.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is as delicious as possible, follow these tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute better flavor and texture than canned ones.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste frequently while cooking to ensure balanced flavors; add salt or pepper gradually.
• Simmer longer for depth: Letting the soup simmer longer can deepen the flavors—just be cautious not to overcook beans or pasta.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity in taste.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring a refreshing contrast.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your meal.
3. Italian Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with seasoned tomatoes offers a crunchy texture that complements the soup well.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a colorful and nutritious side.
5. Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for dipping into your hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can lead to a bland soup. Invest in good-quality products for a richer flavor.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you overcook the vegetables, they can become mushy and lose their crunch. Sauté them just until they’re tender for the best texture.
• Neglecting to Taste: Not tasting as you cook can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Skipping the Simmer: Rushing through the simmering step can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 10 minutes for optimal taste.
• Using Uncooked Pasta: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the soup can result in a soggy texture. Cook the pasta separately until al-dente before adding it to the mix.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer individual portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup that may help you while cooking.

How can I customize Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Feel free to substitute different beans or use whole grain pasta for added nutrition.

Can I make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or veggie crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What sides go well with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Pair this hearty soup with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or bruschetta for a complete meal.

Can I make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully when made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily adapt it with different ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy customizing your own perfect bowl of Italian goodness!

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Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that perfectly captures the essence of Italian cuisine. This rich soup combines tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome pasta in a savory broth, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or meal prep. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warm embrace of this delicious soup any night of the week!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 3 cans tomato sauce (8 oz each)
• 2 cans low sodium beef broth (14.5 oz each)
• 1 can petite diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 can dark red kidney beans, drained (15 oz)
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained (15 oz)
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook ditalini pasta separately according to package instructions until al-dente.
5. After simmering the soup, add drained kidney beans and cannellini beans; heat through.
6. Drain cooked pasta and stir into the soup mixture until well combined.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like freshly grated Parmesan cheese or herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize your soup by adding spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or veggie crumbles and use vegetable broth.