Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Indulge in the warmth and comforting flavors of this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe, a delightful Italian-American soup that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. With its rich broth, tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty beans, it’s a nutritious choice that combines protein and fiber. Best of all, you can prepare it in about 40 minutes, making it an easy favorite for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy meal option.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for family meals or as a comforting bowl on chilly nights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously hearty soup.
• Easily Scalable: You can easily adjust the recipe to serve more people or save some for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution while simmering soups.
• Chopping knife: Ensures precise cuts for vegetables, enhancing cooking consistency.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safe chopping and preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can red kidney beans (14 oz, drained)
• 1 can cannellini beans (14 oz, drained)
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Pasta

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes until they are tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add uncooked ditalini pasta and continue to simmer until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your dining experience, making it feel like a special occasion. This hearty soup is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch that brightens the dish.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or Romano cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on top as they please.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty Italian bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

Garnish with Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy some heat, provide red pepper flakes on the table for added spice.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• A light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup well.

Use Bowls for Individual Servings

• Serve in individual bowls for a more personal touch during family gatherings or dinner parties.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To ensure your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli achieves maximum flavor and texture, consider these helpful tips.

• Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is browned thoroughly for deeper flavor.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh onions, celery, and carrots enhance the overall taste and nutrition of the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To maintain pasta texture, consider cooking ditalini separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Broth: For added depth, try using homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought option.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for mopping up every last bit of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that balances the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms are an excellent bite-sized complement to this hearty dish.
6. Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta offers a fresh taste that pairs well with the robust flavors of pasta e fagioli.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables provides variety and excitement to your meal.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon juice is both nutritious and delightful alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing your vegetables for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for 8-10 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can leave it bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper along with Italian herbs for a flavorful broth.
• Using Too Much Pasta: Adding too much pasta can make your dish too thick and heavy. Stick to the recommended amount of ditalini pasta for best results.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can impact flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs to enhance the overall taste of your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Rushing the simmering process means missing out on deep flavors. Let your soup simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to meld all ingredients beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; however, it’s best to cook pasta separately before freezing.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta simmered in savory broth.

Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?

Yes! You can use ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. They brighten up the dish!

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to taste. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!