Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or cozy nights in. With its rich tomato base, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning taste buds. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this delicious soup right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option.
• Flavor Packed: With a blend of spices and fresh ingredients, each spoonful bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite beans or pasta shapes to suit your preferences.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of beef, beans, and pasta makes this soup a complete meal in one bowl.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this soup fits any setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup and allowing all flavors to meld together.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• 3 8oz. cans tomato sauce
• 2 14.5oz. cans low sodium beef broth
• 1 14.5oz. can petite diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 15oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 15oz. can cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Serving

• Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed before returning it to the stove.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
* Sauté these vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Tomato Base

Pour in the tomato sauce, low sodium beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
* Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Ditalini Pasta

While your soup is simmering:
* Bring a small pot of water to boil.
* Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al-dente.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans

Once the soup has simmered:
* Stir in both the kidney beans and cannellini beans.
* Allow them to heat through while checking seasoning; add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Soup

After draining your pasta:
* Add it directly into the soup and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Top each bowl with grated parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make your meal truly special.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. The crunchy texture works perfectly with the soup’s richness.

With a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the soup. It adds freshness and balances the hearty dish.

With Parmesan Cheese

• Grate fresh parmesan cheese over the soup before serving. This adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a main dish accompanied by your favorite Italian dessert, such as tiramisu or panna cotta, for a complete Italian meal experience.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips for an even better flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor profile. Always opt for fresh garlic, onions, and herbs for the best results.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference or dietary needs.

• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer slightly longer if possible. This deepens flavors and allows all ingredients to meld beautifully.

• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately helps prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving for optimal texture.

• Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing—a perfect match for hearty soup.

2. Bruschetta
   Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers a fresh bite that contrasts nicely with the warm soup.

3. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs add an extra layer of flavor that complements each spoonful of soup.

4. Caprese Skewers
   Alternating mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers makes for a refreshing bite alongside your rich soup.

5. Grilled Veggies
   Seasonal grilled vegetables provide a smoky flavor that balances well with the tomato-based broth of the soup.

6. Polenta Fries
   Crispy polenta fries are a delightful alternative to traditional fries and pair well with dipping into your flavorful soup.

7. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting starter before diving into your comforting bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish.

• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper after cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta directly to the soup without checking for doneness, it can become mushy. Cook until al-dente before combining.
• Ignoring the simmer time: Skipping the simmering step can result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 10 minutes for optimal taste.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key flavor component. Opt for low sodium or high-quality beef broth for better flavor.
• Not chopping vegetables uniformly: Inconsistent vegetable sizes can affect cooking times and texture. Ensure all veggies are chopped evenly for uniform cooking.
• Neglecting garnishes: Toppings like parmesan cheese enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup has cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, uncovered, on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Place the soup in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup.

How do I make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables to Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

What kind of beans work best for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Dark red kidney beans and cannellini beans are great choices, but you can experiment with other beans like black beans if desired.

How long does Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

The soup can last up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients while enjoying its comforting flavors. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any dinner occasion!