Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is a cozy, hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This Italian-inspired dish combines tender beef, nutritious veggies, flavorful beans, and delightful orzo pasta. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers comfort and taste that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each spoonful bursts with savory goodness, thanks to a blend of spices and fresh ingredients.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it’s great for any meal of the day.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and protein-rich beans, this soup is as healthy as it is satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pasta E Fagioli, you’ll need some essential tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This allows ample space for cooking all your ingredients together without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 whole carrots (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 6-8 cups low-sodium beef broth*
• 1 can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 1 teaspoons thyme
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 whole bay leaves
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta

How to Make Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they become tender. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the low-sodium beef broth along with tomato sauce, cannellini beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, basil), bay leaves, and crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together well. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let simmer for about 25–30 minutes or until all vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 5: Cook Orzo Pasta

Stir in uncooked orzo pasta into the pot. Cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until the pasta reaches al dente texture.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Step 7: Store

To maintain freshness, store pasta and orzo separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

How to Serve Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Serving Pasta E Fagioli can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy a slice of warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over your soup for added flavor and a fragrant touch.

With Grated Cheese

• Add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, creamy finish that complements the flavors.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup and adds freshness to your plate.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a more personal touch, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

With Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors and gives the soup a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Perfecting this Italian classic takes a few straightforward techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your Pasta E Fagioli turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for a richer flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Cook Vegetables Until Tender: Ensure all vegetables are cooked until fork-tender for the best texture.
• Let it Simmer: Allow enough simmering time so flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Properly: Store pasta separately from the soup to prevent sogginess if you plan to save leftovers.
• Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add more beans or greens like kale for extra nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

To round out your meal, consider pairing Pasta E Fagioli with these delightful side dishes. They complement the soup perfectly while adding variety to your table.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the soup’s texture.
2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic make a light and refreshing side dish.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs offer an elegant touch that enhances any meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, making them an excellent accompaniment.
5. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies create an appealing starter before enjoying the main dish.
6. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth.
7. Polenta Cakes
   Creamy polenta cakes provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup.
8. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that complements the flavors of Pasta E Fagioli beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta E Fagioli can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can impact your soup’s flavor and texture.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can lead to a bland taste. Always choose fresh, seasonal produce for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add the pasta too early, it may become mushy. Cook it just until al dente for the perfect texture in your soup.
• Skimping on Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in a flat dish. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking to enhance flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth will affect the overall taste of your soup. Opt for low-sodium, high-quality beef broth for more depth.
• Neglecting Bean Preparation: Not rinsing canned beans can leave a metallic taste. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them to your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta E Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta E Fagioli.

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often featuring vegetables and meat. This version uses ground beef for added richness.

How can I customize my Pasta E Fagioli?

Feel free to add different vegetables like spinach or kale! You can also swap in other types of beans based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or skip it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor.

How do I thicken my Pasta E Fagioli?

To thicken your soup, let it simmer longer without the lid on or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water until you reach desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is not only delicious but also adaptable to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer extra greens or a different type of meat, this recipe offers countless customization options. Give it a try for your next meal!