Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe! is a delightful dish that brings the cozy taste of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for a warm and hearty soup. With its rich flavors and tender pasta, you’ll find it hard to resist this comforting bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Packed with ground beef, beans, and aromatic vegetables, every spoonful bursts with savory goodness.
- Nutritious: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s not just delicious but also good for you.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a side dish; it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make preparing Pasta e Fagioli even easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spilling over.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
- Sharp knife: Aids in quickly dicing ingredients, ensuring uniform cooking.
- Stirring spoon: Necessary for combining ingredients thoroughly while cooking.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting Pasta e Fagioli:
Meat and Oils
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Pasta
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Seasonings
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and brown for about 3–5 minutes until fully cooked.
3. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
With the beef still in the pot:
1. Add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return your cooked beef to the pot:
1. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce until well combined.
Step 4: Add Beans and Broth
Next:
1. Add Great Northern beans and kidney beans into the mixture.
2. Pour in chicken broth; mix well.
3. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Then:
1. Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 6: Serve
Finally:
Serve hot! Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli that’s just as satisfying as Olive Garden’s version!
How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
With a Side Salad
- A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the hearty soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top of your Pasta e Fagioli for an aromatic finish that adds color and flavor.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious broth and add a satisfying crunch.
With Grated Cheese
- Offer grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese as a topping for those who enjoy an extra layer of richness in their soup.
As a Standalone Meal
- Enjoy this dish on its own as a filling option for lunch or dinner, thanks to its balance of protein, carbs, and veggies.
In Individual Bowls
- Serve in small bowls for a more elegant presentation, perfect for entertaining guests at home.
How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
Creating the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better dish.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth enhance the flavors significantly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasoning levels according to your preference.
- Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, consider cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens the flavors; just ensure you don’t overcook the pasta.
- Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Customize Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on what you have available for added variety.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing complements the soup’s flavors.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a refreshing appetizer before the main course.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a nutritious side that balances well with the hearty soup.
- Caprese Skewers: Skewers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are easy to prepare and add a burst of flavor.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa make for a hearty side dish that pairs nicely with Pasta e Fagioli.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches serve as a comforting companion that’s perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm spinach artichoke dip served with tortilla chips offers a creamy contrast to the soup’s texture.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta adds freshness and complements the Italian theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Using low-quality beef: Choosing lean ground beef is crucial for a flavorful broth. Opt for high-quality meat to enhance the dish.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing should be just right. Cook until softened but not mushy to maintain a pleasing texture.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Skipping the simmering step: This step melds flavors together. Don’t rush; let your soup simmer for at least 10 minutes after adding the broth.
- Not following pasta instructions: Ditalini pasta should be cooked until al dente. Overcooking will result in mushy pasta that detracts from the overall experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat): Enjoy This Easy Recipe!
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pasta e Fagioli.
Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?
You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or even change the beans based on your preferences. Experiment with spices for different flavor profiles!
What type of pasta is best for Pasta e Fagioli?
Ditalini is traditional and works well, but you can also use small shells or other small pasta shapes if preferred.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to cook the pasta separately if storing long-term.
Final Thoughts
This hearty Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to meal prep. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among many. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!
Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Pasta e Fagioli, a delightful copycat recipe inspired by Olive Garden that promises to bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. This hearty soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, packed with rich flavors from lean ground beef, tender pasta, and nutritious beans. With its savory aroma and satisfying texture, each bowl offers a nourishing experience that’s both quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes! Ideal on chilly evenings or as a fulfilling lunch option, this Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a staple in your home.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 3–5 minutes until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic; sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce until well combined.
- Add Great Northern beans and kidney beans along with chicken broth; mix well and let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Serve hot! Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Soups
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg