Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), a delightful Italian soup that brings together ground beef, beans, and ditalini pasta in a savory broth. This hearty dish is perfect for various occasions—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. Its standout qualities include a quick preparation time and the ability to customize with your favorite vegetables, making it both satisfying and versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pot and minimal prep, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, it’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding different vegetables or beans to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of savory broth and tender pasta creates a warm hug in a bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe seamlessly, gather the following essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and easily.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting through meat and veggies effortless and precise.

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

For the Broth

• 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

Seasonings

• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and brown it for about 3–5 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Sauté diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic in the same pot. Cook for about 4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot along with diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Add Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta along with seasonings. Cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve Hot

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

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Fresh baguette or Italian bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Topped with Parmesan

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully and gives it an extra layer of indulgence.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Adding freshly chopped basil not only brightens the presentation but also infuses the dish with a burst of herbal freshness.

Side Salad

• A light side salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the hearty nature of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.

With Garlic Breadsticks

• Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the soup, making every bite even more satisfying.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting Pasta e Fagioli in individual bowls makes for an inviting table setting and allows each guest to enjoy their portion at their own pace.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To take your Pasta e Fagioli to the next level, follow these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and texture.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality canned products for superior taste and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper according to your personal preference. Taste as you go!
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving if you want less mushiness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps meld those wonderful flavors together.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or zucchini for additional nutrients and flavor. They blend well without overpowering the dish.
• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better on the second day! Prepare it in advance for meal prep or gatherings.

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

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for soaking up leftover broth and add a garlicky flavor dimension.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings vibrant color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an excellent finger food option that pairs well with Italian flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies creates a delicious spread that complements the soup nicely.
7. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia infused with herbs is another great option for dipping into your soup.
8. Zucchini Chips: Lightly baked zucchini chips provide a crispy alternative to traditional chips while keeping it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality vegetables and meat. This enhances the overall flavor of your soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté your vegetables can leave them bland. Take time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to a dull taste. Taste and adjust the seasonings throughout cooking for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini should be al dente. Add it towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness.
• Ignoring leftovers: This soup tastes better the next day. Don’t skip letting it sit overnight for enhanced flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) last?

Pasta e Fagioli can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months when stored properly.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of beans according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein and fiber from beans and lean ground beef while being relatively low in calories per serving.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli.

What do I serve with Pasta e Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this comforting recipe, whether it’s for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy gathering with loved ones.

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

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Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

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

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Pasta e Fagioli, a delightful Olive Garden copycat recipe that brings a taste of Italy to your table. This hearty soup combines tender ground beef, nutritious beans, and ditalini pasta in a savory broth, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its quick prep time and flexible ingredients, you can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. Serve it hot with crusty bread, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or fresh basil for an inviting meal everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil and brown the ground beef for 3–5 minutes.
2. Add the diced carrots, onion, garlic, and sauté until softened (about 4 minutes).
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add both types of beans and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Mix in the ditalini pasta; cook until tender (about 10 more minutes).
6. Serve hot with optional toppings like Parmesan cheese or fresh basil.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg