How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

A hearty Italian-style soup, How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home is the perfect dish for cozy dinners. This recipe brings together pasta, beans, and beef simmered in a rich tomato broth, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and offers robust flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this soup can be on your table in under an hour.
• Flavorful and Filling: Packed with ground beef, beans, and vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish that warms you up.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe with seasonal veggies or different types of pasta.
• Family-Friendly: This soup appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste even better the next day, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner option.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for making soups; it allows for even cooking and ample space for all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures smooth chopping of vegetables and meat, making prep quicker and safer.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, which helps maintain its longevity.

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Ingredients

A hearty Italian-style soup with pasta, beans, beef, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth—cozy, filling, and easy to make at home.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

For the Broth and Pasta

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasonings

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper

How to Make How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add 2 tbsp of olive oil.
2. Once hot, add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 3 minced garlic cloves.
3. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add 1 lb of ground beef to the pot:
– Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in:
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans,
– 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans,
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes,
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Pour in:
– 4 cups of beef broth.

Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add:
– 1 ½ tsp basil,
– 1 tsp oregano,
– ½ tsp thyme,
– Salt & pepper to taste.

Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling:
– Add in 1 cup of ditalini pasta.
– Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Once done:
– Ladle into bowls.
– Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Classic Pairings

• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh baguette or sourdough is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add a buttery, garlic-flavored twist to complement the rich flavors of the soup.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the heartiness of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

Cheese Toppings

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan on top enhances the flavor and adds a creamy texture.
• Mozzarella: Melting mozzarella can create a delightful cheesy layer when added just before serving.

Beverage Pairings

• Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water with lemon enhances the meal’s flavors without overpowering them.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is a great choice to cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance its taste and texture. Here are some tips for making this dish even better.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Sautéing vegetables longer can deepen their flavors. Consider cooking them until they are slightly caramelized.
• Season Thoughtfully: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. Add salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality beef broth for a richer flavor. Homemade broth can make a significant difference.
• Pasta Cooking Tips: Cook ditalini pasta separately until al dente, then add it just before serving. This keeps it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish can brighten flavors and add visual appeal.
• Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

No meal is complete without delightful side dishes that complement your main course. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

1. Garlic Knots: These fluffy bread knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a crunchy contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and veggies add nutrition and variety to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add extra fiber to your dinner plate.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta with cheese creates a comforting side that pairs beautifully with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home can be simple, but several common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables in olive oil adds depth to the soup. Take the time to cook the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they soften and release their flavors.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add the ditalini pasta too early, it can become mushy. Cook it according to package instructions separately or add it towards the end of cooking.
• Not seasoning properly: A well-seasoned soup is key. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to enhance your dish.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Opt for a good-quality beef broth for rich flavor instead of low-sodium or bland varieties.
• Neglecting bean varieties: Using only one type of bean can limit texture and taste. Combine kidney beans and great northern beans for a hearty contrast.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

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

Reheating How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on medium-low heat in a pot until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

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

The total time is about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the beef and use vegetable broth along with additional vegetables or plant-based protein sources like lentils.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try this cozy dish today!