Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful recipe that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, beans, and pasta, it offers a warm hug in a bowl that you can enjoy any day of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of beef broth, tomatoes, and herbs creates a savory taste that rivals any restaurant version.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or beans to make it uniquely yours while keeping the essence of Pasta E Fagioli.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers easily; this soup tastes even better the next day!
• Comforting and Hearty: Ideal for chilly nights or when you need something filling that warms your soul.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, having the right tools makes everything easier. Below are essential items you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cooking spoon
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend well together.
• Cooking spoon: Helps in stirring the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

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
• 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
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 15oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 15oz. can Cannellini beans, drained
• 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 the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat before returning it to the stove.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
* Sauté these vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they soften.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
* Bring this mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

While your soup is simmering:
* Bring a separate small pot of water to boil.
* Cook ditalini pasta according to package directions until al-dente.

Step 5: Combine Beans

Once the soup has simmered:
* Stir in both kidney beans and Cannellini beans.
* Heat through until everything is warmed nicely. Adjust consistency by adding more water if desired.

Step 6: Add Pasta

Drain the cooked pasta.
* Add it directly into the soup and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy your warm bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Baguette: Perfect for dipping, these breads soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: A flavorful option that complements the soup’s Italian roots.

Salad Pairing

• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast to the soup’s warmth.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brighten up the meal.

Toppings

• Parmesan Cheese: Adding extra cheese enhances the savory flavor of the soup.
• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness.

Wine Suggestions

• Chianti: This classic Italian red wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the soup.
• Pinot Grigio: For a white option, this crisp wine balances the richness well.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

To make your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup even better, consider these simple tips. They can help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs for personal preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Add Spice: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

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 great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots tossed in garlic and herbs are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives provides variety and texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal.
5. Risotto Balls (Arancini): These crispy rice balls filled with cheese make for a delightful treat alongside your soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using Low-Quality Beef: Always choose good quality ground beef for the best flavor. Lean beef is preferable, but avoid overly fatty cuts that can make the soup greasy.

• Skipping the Vegetables: Don’t skip adding onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables add depth and flavor to the soup. Make sure to chop them finely for even cooking.

• Overcooking the Pasta: To maintain the perfect texture, cook the ditalini pasta al-dente before adding it to the soup. This ensures it doesn’t become mushy when reheating.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt and pepper based on your preference. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor.

• Ignoring Storage Tips: If you’re not consuming all of the soup at once, store it properly in airtight containers to keep it fresh. Make sure you know how long it lasts in the fridge or freezer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer a portion of soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, approximately 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup:

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

You can definitely make a vegetarian version by omitting ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth along with your favorite plant-based protein.

What beans can I use in Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

While kidney beans and cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to substitute with black beans or chickpeas based on your taste preferences.

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

You can add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition. Additionally, experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for unique flavors.

How long does Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

This delicious soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when properly sealed in an airtight container.

Can I use other types of pasta than ditalini?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can swap it out for small shells or elbow macaroni if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. Its rich flavors and comforting ingredients make it perfect for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, a delightful recipe that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your home. This hearty soup features ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it’s a dish that not only satisfies but also warms your soul on chilly evenings. With quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy this restaurant-style favorite any day 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
• Dark red kidney beans
• Cannellini beans

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté for about 3–4 minutes.
3. Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook ditalini pasta separately until al-dente; drain.
5. Stir in the drained beans into the soup and heat through.
6. Combine cooked pasta with soup before serving.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg