Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This hearty soup features a delightful blend of flavors and textures, from tender ground beef to nutritious beans and fresh vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a standout option for busy weeknights or special meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup packs a punch with protein and fiber, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have this comforting dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or paired with a side salad, it fits any dining scenario.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and vegetables creates a rich taste that rivals your favorite restaurant version.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for an easy meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this amazing soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in your ingredients for consistent results.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

This wonderfully hearty soup has it all. Protein from ground beef. Veggies from onions, carrots, and celery. Complex carbs from red kidney beans and cannellini beans.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 1 yellow onion, chopped finely
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 3 celery ribs, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 (8oz) cans tomato sauce
– 2 (14.5oz) can beef broth
– 1 (14.5oz) can petite diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup of water
– 2 tsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 8 oz dry ditalini pasta
– 1 (15oz) can dark red kidney beans drained and rinsed
– 1 (15oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for serving
– Salt and Pepper to taste

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until no pink is showing. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about five minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Combine Tomato Base

Next, add tomato sauce, beef broth, canned tomatoes, water, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring this mixture to a boil and let simmer for about 5–6 minutes. Then add the ditalini pasta and cook for an additional ten minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add Beans

Stir in the kidney beans and cannellini beans. Cook until they are heated through. Check seasoning; add more water if you prefer a thinner soup.

Step 6: Serve

Make sure everything is well combined. Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the soup in deep bowls for a comforting meal.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Bread Pairing

• Accompany the soup with crusty breadsticks or garlic bread.
• The bread will soak up the delicious broth, making each bite delightful.

Salad Side

• Include a fresh side salad to balance the meal.
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

Beverage Choice

• Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.
• These drinks enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Topping Ideas

• Consider adding croutons for extra crunch.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up each bowl.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Every palate is different!
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a thicker consistency, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time; this deepens the flavors.
• Garnish Generously: Always finish with plenty of grated Parmesan cheese—it’s a game changer!

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pair your delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli with these side dishes for an even more satisfying meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, great for dipping in soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing enhances the overall meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your table.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with melted cheese are perfect for soaking up broth.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a delightful bite-sized addition to your dinner spread.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with savory soups and add a comforting touch.
8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cheeses, olives, and roasted peppers makes for an elegant appetizer before soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes you should avoid:

• Skipping the browning process: Properly browning the ground beef adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; cook it until it’s no longer pink and has a nice color.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key for balance in flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for tomato sauce and spices to ensure your soup tastes just right.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and add it towards the end of simmering.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. Depending on your ingredients, you might need to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs.

• Using cold broth: Start with room temperature or warm beef broth to help bring your soup up to temperature quickly. This avoids extending cooking time unnecessarily.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and warm slowly, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that can help enhance your cooking experience:

What is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta, inspired by the famous restaurant dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or skip it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also swap out ditalini pasta for any small pasta shape you prefer.

How long does it take to make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and filling dish perfect for any dinner table. Its hearty ingredients make it versatile; you can easily customize it based on what’s available in your pantry. Give this recipe a try—your family will love it!