Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is an ideal dish for family meals or gatherings. With its blend of lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth, it warms the soul and satisfies the taste buds. Perfect for cozy lunches or dinners, this recipe brings the classic Olive Garden experience right to your kitchen. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Beans and Pasta
• For Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Broth and Beans
• Step 5: Cook Pasta
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• Add a Side Salad
• Top with Cheese
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
• How do I serve Pasta e Fagioli?
• Can I customize the ingredients?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it easy to prepare and serve.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beans, pasta, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a starter at your next gathering; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, improving in flavor over time.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups and stews evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes. Break it apart into small pieces as it browns.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Remove the cooked beef from the pot and drain excess fat. Set aside. In the same pot, add diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with fresh basil on top or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is as important as preparing it. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing your dining experience.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• French Bread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the soup’s rich flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Adds an aromatic twist and complements the Italian herbs in the dish.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Mediterranean Salad: Featuring olives, feta, and cucumber, this salad adds brightness and crunch.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grating fresh Parmesan on top gives a salty richness that elevates the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melting mozzarella adds creaminess and a delightful texture to each bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Freshly chopped basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley can brighten up the presentation and flavor profile.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli takes just a few thoughtful steps. These tips will help you achieve that authentic Olive Garden taste at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup even better.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving; you can adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your palate.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to rest for 10–15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Store in airtight containers for easy meals later on.

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Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this comforting soup.

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for a savory bite.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or cheese offer a filling side that matches well.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and garlic creates a tasty appetizer or side.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Risotto Balls (Arancini): Crispy risotto balls filled with cheese provide a delightful crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland taste. Make sure to cook it until it’s well-browned for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy noodles. Add it towards the end of cooking and follow package instructions for timing.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings, such as salt and pepper, may make your soup less flavorful. Always sample before serving and adjust as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: Opting for low-quality chicken broth can affect the overall flavor of your soup. Choose a good-quality broth or make your own for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow at least 10 minutes of simmering after adding the beans and broth.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, ground beef, and vegetables, inspired by Olive Garden’s popular dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I serve Pasta e Fagioli?

Serve hot as a main course or alongside crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for cozy meals!

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or swap out the types of beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated the next day, it’s sure to satisfy cravings any time. Give this comforting recipe a try!

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