Olive Garden’s pasta e fagioli recipe is a comforting bowl of Italian goodness that you can easily recreate at home. This hearty soup, filled with savory ground beef, nutritious beans, and fresh vegetables, is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe will become your new go-to meal on chilly evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of soup that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for everyone.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for an easy meal later on.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A sturdy pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped finely
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery ribs, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Liquids
- 3 (8 ounces/226 grams) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5 ounces/411 grams) cans beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounces/411 grams) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) water
For the Beans
- 1 (15 ounces/425 grams) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounces/425 grams) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
For Seasoning and Pasta
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces (226 grams) dry ditalini pasta
For Serving
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for serving
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, caramelize the ground beef. Continuously break apart the meat while stirring until completely browned—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Ensure to keep some rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté these aromatic ingredients until they soften and become fragrant; this typically takes around 4 to 5 minutes. Stir consistently to avoid scorching.
Step 3: Add Liquid Components
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, and water into the pot. Season with dried basil, oregano, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat until boiling occurs; then reduce it to a gentle simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta
Introduce dry ditalini pasta directly into the simmering liquid. Cook for approximately 9 to 11 minutes until pasta reaches an al dente texture. Keep an eye on liquid levels during cooking; add more water if necessary.
Step 5: Fold in Beans
Stir in both kidney beans and cannellini beans into the pot. Heat thoroughly for another 2 to 3 minutes. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls or serving vessels. Top each portion with freshly grated Parmesan cheese while serving; the residual heat will gently melt it into your flavorful soup masterpiece.
Enjoy this easy-to-make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting qualities. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making every bowl a delight.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Offer Crusty Bread
- Serve slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish.
Include Grated Cheese
- Provide freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle over their servings, enhancing the flavor.
Pair with Wine Alternatives
- Consider offering sparkling water with lemon or a fruit-infused drink as a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage option.
How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli turns out delicious every time, follow these handy tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.
Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate.
Cook pasta separately: For a less mushy texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it to individual bowls before serving.
Make ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day; make it in advance to let flavors meld together.
Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
Complement your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan for added crunch.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a fresh appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender; their sweetness pairs well with the savory soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs and herbs create an excellent bite-sized treat.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that complements the soup’s heartiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not browning the beef properly – Ensuring your ground beef is well-browned enhances the flavor of the soup. Take your time and break it up as it cooks.
- Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the vegetables releases their natural flavors. Don’t rush this step; allow them to soften and become fragrant.
- Overcooking the pasta – Ditalini pasta should be al dente for the right texture in your soup. Keep an eye on it during cooking to avoid mushiness.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Tasting as you cook is crucial. Don’t skip adjusting salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Using too little liquid – If your soup becomes too thick, add more water or broth to maintain a soupy consistency. Monitor it closely while simmering.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.
Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until steaming hot.
- Stovetop – Gently reheat over medium heat, adding broth or water if needed to restore consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe?
This recipe replicates the beloved Italian soup found at Olive Garden, featuring ground beef, beans, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions.
How can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe?
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences.
What sides pair well with this dish?
A fresh salad and crusty bread complement this hearty soup beautifully. They provide a nice contrast and balance to the meal.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
The Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dish that brings Italian flavors right into your kitchen!
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
Experience the warmth and comfort of Italy with this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Recipe. This savory soup combines lean ground beef, nutritious beans, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also nourishing and satisfying. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Simply gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade goodness that rivals your favorite Italian eatery.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery ribs, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cans tomato sauce (8 ounces each)
- 2 cans beef broth (14.5 ounces each)
- 1 can petite diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can dark red kidney beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
- 1 can cannellini beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces dry ditalini pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, water, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta; cook for approximately 9 to 11 minutes until al dente.
- Stir in kidney beans and cannellini beans; heat through for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: To enhance flavor, use fresh herbs whenever possible. For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead.