Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This hearty and comforting Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is a delightful take on the classic dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, this recipe is packed with nutritious beans, tender pasta, and savory ground beef in a rich tomato broth. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together swiftly.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a robust taste that warms your soul.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is both satisfying and health-conscious.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add more vegetables or switch up the pasta type to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli, gather your tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while breaking up the beef easily.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced

For the Beans and Broth

• 1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups beef broth

For Seasoning and Pasta

• 1 cup small shell pasta (or ditalini)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnishing

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to release all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Broth

Add the canned kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the small shell pasta to the pot. Cook until al dente by following package instructions.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed before removing from heat.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Serve hot while garnished with chopped parsley. Add grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This hearty soup is a comforting meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your bowl, enhancing the flavors of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or baguette is perfect for dipping. Toast it lightly for added texture and flavor.

Add a Salad

• Caesar or garden salad complements the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of flavor. It melts beautifully into the warm soup.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized servings make the meal feel special. Use decorative bowls to elevate your presentation.

Offer Extra Seasoning

• Salt and pepper shakers at the table allow guests to customize their soup to taste, enhancing their enjoyment.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

To make this dish truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will bring out the best flavors in your soup.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for an extended time enhances the depth of flavor.
• Experiment with pasta types: While small shell pasta is recommended, try other shapes like ditalini or even gluten-free options for variety.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go to ensure the right balance of salt and spices tailored to your preference.
• Add more beans: For extra protein and fiber, feel free to increase the quantity of kidney or cannellini beans.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making reheating easy and convenient.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent side options that pair wonderfully with this comforting soup.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that adds a flavorful crunch, perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing side that balances well with hearty dishes.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a nutritious complement with a caramelized flavor.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms
   These bite-sized appetizers filled with cheese and herbs offer a savory addition alongside your soup.

5. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies creates an inviting starter before diving into your main dish.

6. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad with Italian dressing can be refreshing while echoing similar flavors found in Pasta E Fagioli.

7. Bruschetta
   Topped with diced tomatoes and basil on toasted bread, this appetizer enhances Italian flavors without being too filling.

8. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm pasta e fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Pasta E Fagioli can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality meat or canned tomatoes can affect the flavor. Always choose fresh or high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and add pasta in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Taste your dish regularly and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout cooking.
• Ignoring texture: For a hearty dish, balance soft beans with al dente pasta. Be mindful of cooking times for each ingredient to achieve the perfect texture.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Quick cooking doesn’t allow flavors to develop. Letting your soup simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli:

What is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli?

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is a homemade version of the restaurant’s famous soup that combines ground beef, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground turkey or omit meat entirely and use vegetable broth along with extra beans for protein.

How long does Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What type of beans should I use?

This recipe uses kidney and cannellini beans for texture and flavor. However, you can use any beans you prefer!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Try experimenting with different vegetables or spices, making this dish uniquely yours!