Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that brings the restaurant experience right into your home. This hearty soup features ground beef, fresh vegetables, kidney beans, and ditalini pasta in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines flavor and comfort that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and beans, this soup satisfies hunger and warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or add extra spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the combination of pasta and beans, making it an easy choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups/spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking soups evenly without splattering.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for all your ingredients.
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
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
For 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 and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before returning it to the stove.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce, low sodium beef broth, canned tomatoes along with their juices, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta
While your soup is simmering, bring a small pot of water to boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 5: Incorporate Beans
Once your soup has simmered for 10 minutes, stir in both kidney beans and cannellini beans. Allow them to heat through while checking seasoning; adjust with more salt if necessary or add water for a thinner consistency.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Drain your pasta once it’s done cooking and add it directly into the soup mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 7: Serve
Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy your comforting 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 simple yet delightful. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Italian Bread – A slice of this bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up the rich broth.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and buttery, these add a tasty crunch and garlic flavor that complements the soup.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Mediterranean Salad – Featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, this salad brings a tangy zing that pairs well with the Italian flavors.
With Toppings
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of fresh grated parmesan on top adds creaminess and enhances the savory notes of the soup.
- Fresh Basil – Chopped basil leaves provide a burst of freshness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup
To make your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup truly shine, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the taste significantly compared to dried or canned options.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference for a personalized flavor.
- Cook Pasta Separately – Cooking the ditalini 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 the flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil brings a vibrant starter to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create an exciting side option packed with flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies offer a caramelized sweetness that complements the hearty soup.
- Caprese Skewers – Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness to your plate.
- Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters made from zucchini provide a deliciously crunchy contrast to the smooth soup base.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic deliver comfort alongside your Italian meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Using the wrong meat: Make sure to use ground beef or turkey instead of pork. This keeps the dish aligned with your dietary choices while retaining its hearty flavor.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Do not skip sautéing the vegetables! This step enhances their flavor and adds depth to your soup. Always sauté for at least 3-4 minutes.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure the flavors are balanced and delicious.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta separately until al-dente before adding it to the soup. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the soup.
- Ignoring broth quality: Use low sodium beef broth for a better balance of flavors. High sodium options can overpower the dish and make it too salty.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover 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
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, around 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes! You can substitute kidney beans with other beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.
How do I make this soup more filling?
To make it heartier, consider adding more pasta or vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrients.
Can I use vegetable broth instead?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This will still maintain great flavor.
What is a good side dish to serve with this soup?
A simple side salad or garlic bread works wonderfully alongside this comforting dish.
Final Thoughts
This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its versatility allows for customization with different proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it out today!
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup
Enjoy a warm bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup that’s easy to make at home! Dive into this comforting Italian classic today!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 15oz can dark red kidney beans, drained
- 1 15oz can cannellini beans, drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before returning it to the stove.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, low sodium beef broth, canned tomatoes along with their juices, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
- While your soup is simmering, bring a small pot of water to boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once your soup has simmered for 10 minutes, stir in both kidney beans and cannellini beans. Allow them to heat through while checking seasoning; adjust with more salt if necessary or add water for a thinner consistency.
- Drain your pasta once it's done cooking and add it directly into the soup mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy your comforting Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg