A hearty and delicious Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe! is perfect for those cozy nights when you need a comforting meal. This recipe captures the rich flavors of Italian-American cuisine, making it suitable for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a quick weeknight meal. With its robust ingredients and satisfying taste, you’ll find this dish becoming a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Comfort: Packed with savory ground beef, beans, and aromatic vegetables, every spoonful brings warmth and satisfaction.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside garlic bread for an appealing dinner spread.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty soup, making it a hit at family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your own Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the cooking process and ensures uniform results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing ample space for all ingredients to simmer together nicely.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes chopping meat and veggies quick and easy.

this recipe

Ingredients

A hearty and delicious Pasta e Fagioli recipe that replicates the famous Olive Garden dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

Meat

• 1 lb lean ground beef

Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Canned Goods

• 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

Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasonings

• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper to taste

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

Getting started on this delightful dish is simple. Follow these steps to create your own flavorful Pasta e Fagioli.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Heat olive oil.
2. Add ground beef and brown it for 3–5 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Next:
1. Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
2. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Finally:
1. Stir in ditalini pasta along with seasonings of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese as desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its rich flavors and enjoying it with complementary dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions that elevate this comforting soup.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped basil on top for a burst of freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese over the soup for added creaminess.
• Croutons: Add crunchy croutons for texture and an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanying Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside to soak up the delicious broth.
• Focaccia: This soft, herby bread pairs beautifully with the hearty soup.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be a delightful addition, perfect for dipping.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the flavors of the soup well.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli can make all the difference in taste. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious outcome every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
• Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality tomatoes and broth to elevate the dish’s taste.
• Simmer Longer: Let the soup simmer longer to develop deeper flavors; just ensure not to overcook the pasta.
• Customize Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

Pasta e Fagioli is filling on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can make your meal even more satisfying. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheese, and vegetables adds variety to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil complement the soup nicely.
4. Spinach Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains and veggies make a hearty side.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters offer a crunchy contrast and are easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can lead to a bland taste. Always take the time to brown it well for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for al dente texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Relying on pre-measured spices without tasting can result in an unbalanced dish. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your preference.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak chicken broth won’t provide enough depth of flavor. Opt for a good-quality broth or homemade if possible.
• Not including enough vegetables: Skimping on veggies can leave the soup lacking in nutrition and texture. Always add generous amounts of carrots, celery, and onion.
• Forgetting to let it simmer: Rushing through the simmering step can prevent flavors from melding together. Allow sufficient time for simmering to enhance the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label with dates.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place it in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish:

What makes this Pasta e Fagioli recipe a copycat of Olive Garden?

This recipe mirrors Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli by using similar ingredients and cooking methods that create a rich and hearty flavor profile.

Can I use other types of beans in Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes! While Great Northern and kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute others like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers of Pasta e Fagioli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste!

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Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Experience the comforting warmth of Pasta e Fagioli, a hearty Italian-American staple that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights. This easy Olive Garden-inspired recipe combines savory ground beef, nutritious beans, and aromatic vegetables for a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is not only quick but also versatile—enjoy it as a main course or with crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop. Meal prep is a breeze with this soup, making it an ideal option for busy schedules.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 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 to taste
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 3–5 minutes; drain excess fat.
2. Add diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot; sauté until softened (about 4 minutes).
3. Return cooked beef to the pot; stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
4. Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth; simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
6. Serve hot with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For extra flavor depth, allow the soup to simmer longer. Feel free to substitute different types of beans based on your preference. To make it vegetarian-friendly, replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.