Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This hearty soup features tender ground beef, nutritious beans, and vibrant vegetables, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Whether served on a chilly evening or as a delightful lunch option, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table with its rich taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, beans, and Italian seasoning creates a robust flavor profile that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile: This soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the blend of ingredients in this classic Italian dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking much easier. For this recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment to help you create your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering soup, allowing for even heating.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through onions, carrots, and celery quick and easy.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

For the Beans

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Flavoring

• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish

How to Make  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, both types of beans, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

In a small pot, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set aside.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Just before serving, stir the cooked pasta into the soup. Alternatively, keep it separate if you prefer not to have soggy noodles in leftovers.

Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy

Top your soup with freshly chopped parsley or shredded Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your warm bowl of deliciousness!

How to Serve  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving your delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate the dining experience. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, and there are many ways to present it that will delight your guests.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the soup’s richness.

As a Main Dish

• Hearty Meal: Enjoy this pasta e fagioli as a main course by adding a side salad and some grated cheese on top.
• With Grains: Consider serving over quinoa or rice for a filling meal option.

Garnished Elegantly

• Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Cheese Options: Offer grated Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese alternative as an optional topping.

In Individual Bowls

• Personalized Servings: Serve in individual bowls for easy portion control and a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.

How to Perfect  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance its taste and texture, making it even more enjoyable.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth to intensify flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings during cooking to ensure the right balance of flavors.
• Proper Cooking Time: Allow sufficient simmering time; this melds the flavors beautifully.
• Separate Pasta Cooking: Cook pasta separately to avoid mushiness in leftovers; add just before serving.
• Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Refrigerate Overnight: Letting the soup sit overnight enhances the flavors even further; reheat gently before serving.

Best Side Dishes for  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing sides with your  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can create a complete meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing perfectly balances the rich soup.
2. Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter make for a tasty accompaniment that’s perfect for dipping.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal; season them simply with olive oil and herbs.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains or cheese provide an extra punch of flavor alongside the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, cured meats (like turkey), and marinated veggies can be an excellent starter before the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Not browning the beef properly: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned for better flavor. Undercooking can lead to a less savory soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables is crucial for developing their flavors. Don’t rush this process; take your time to soften them before adding liquids.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Always follow package instructions and consider cooking it separately if you plan on having leftovers.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup as it cooks! You may need more salt or seasoning depending on your palate. Adjust accordingly for a well-balanced flavor.
• Using cold broth: Using cold broth can slow down cooking time and affect how well flavors meld together. Always use room temperature or warm broth to start with.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Garnishes like fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese can enhance presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you leave space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that may help you perfect your dish!

Can I use turkey instead of beef in  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes! Ground turkey makes a great alternative for a lighter version while still maintaining flavor.

What type of beans are best for this recipe?

You can use kidney beans along with great northern or cannellini beans. Both provide excellent texture and taste!

How do I make this vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This versatile  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only delicious but also customizable based on your preferences. Whether you stick closely to the original ingredients or add your favorite veggies, you’ll find it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Give it a try today!

Print

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting embrace of  Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, a delightful Italian-inspired soup that brings together tender ground beef, nutritious beans, and vibrant vegetables. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a rich flavor profile that stands out at any table. With just 15 minutes of prep and a simmering time that melds the flavors beautifully, this recipe promises to impress everyone, making it a family favorite. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for an unforgettable meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, both types of beans, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; let simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
4. Cook ditalini pasta separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Just before serving, mix the cooked pasta into the soup or serve separately to avoid soggy noodles.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini. To enhance flavors further, refrigerate overnight and reheat gently before serving.