The Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup that brings the flavors of the Olive Garden right to your kitchen. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty dish features a delightful mix of ground beef, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. The vibrant ingredients come together to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 55 minutes, you can have a warm meal ready in no time.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the beef and beans, this soup will satisfy your hunger without feeling heavy.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: A hit among kids and adults alike, it’s easy to please everyone at the dinner table.
- Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this delightful soup, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and make your experience more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups and stews; it distributes heat evenly.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
- Chef’s knife: A versatile tool for all chopping tasks; ensures efficiency in food preparation.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
For the Broth and Beans
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups beef broth
For Flavoring
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, great northern beans, beef broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately
In a small pot, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Just before serving, stir pasta into the soup. Alternatively, keep it separate to avoid soggy noodles in leftovers.
Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy
Top with chopped parsley or shredded Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!
How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful way to enjoy this hearty dish. It pairs well with various accompaniments that can enhance your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette or ciabatta is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all those rich flavors.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish’s presentation and flavor.
With a Side Salad
- A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
Accompanied by Cheese
- Shredded Parmesan cheese on top not only enhances the flavor but also gives a creamier texture to each spoonful.
Served in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes it more inviting and allows guests to serve themselves easily.
Enjoyed with Wine or Sparkling Water
- Pairing this dish with a non-alcoholic sparkling drink can elevate the meal without overpowering its flavors.
How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Perfecting Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an even better soup experience.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality beef broth and fresh vegetables to maximize flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your personal preference.
- Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy when stored as leftovers.
- Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just keep an eye on the liquid level.
- Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for added texture and nutrition. Consider adding black beans or chickpeas.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for best quality.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Pairing side dishes with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch. - Caesar Salad
This classic salad brings crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. - Roasted Vegetables
A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition alongside the soup. - Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty addition that pairs well with pasta fagioli. - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are fun to dip into the soup while adding cheesy goodness to each bite. - Antipasto Platter
A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides variety and exciting flavors that complement the soup nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef can lead to a less flavorful base. Always take the time to brown your meat thoroughly.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta directly in the soup can result in mushy noodles. It’s best to cook it separately and add it just before serving.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste your soup as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
- Using canned beans without rinsing: Canned beans often have excess sodium and starch. Rinse them well to improve flavor and reduce sodium content.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: A short simmer time may not allow flavors to fully develop. Aim for at least 20–25 minutes of simmering for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for about 3–4 days.
Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe. It will still provide a hearty base for your soup.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What type of beans should I use?
You can use kidney beans or great northern/cannellini beans. Both options add great texture and flavor to your soup.
How do I store leftovers of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding different veggies or adjusting spices based on your preferences. This comforting soup is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Give it a try today!
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a warm, comforting Italian soup that brings the classic flavors of Olive Garden right into your home. This heartwarming dish features a delightful combination of ground beef, assorted beans, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Quick to prepare yet satisfying, this recipe allows you to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, ensuring a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups beef broth
- Ditalini pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, great northern beans, beef broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook ditalini pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Just before serving, stir the cooked pasta into the soup or keep it separate to prevent sogginess in leftovers.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg