Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is a cozy, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It combines vibrant vegetables with flavorful herbs and spices, creating a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be prepared in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort: Each spoonful is packed with Italian flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with beans and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables easily.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp olive oil, (divided)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water, (then more as desired)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese, for serving
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Crumble in the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally until it’s completely browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Drain any excess fat from the beef and transfer it to a plate. In the same pot, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables over medium-high heat until they are tender, about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, and cooked beef back into the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and allow it to simmer for about 15 -20 minutes until all veggies are soft.

Step 5: Prepare the Pasta

While the soup is simmering, prepare the ditalini pasta according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.

Step 6: Mix in Beans & Pasta

Add your cooked and drained pasta to the soup along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans. If needed, thin out the soup with a little more broth or water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Allow everything to cook together for one more minute. Stir in minced fresh parsley just before serving. Don’t forget to top each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese!

Enjoy this delightful Pasta e Fagioli Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Serving Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making each bowl even more satisfying.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices of warm crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These add a flavorful crunch that complements the soup’s richness.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Romano or Parmesan: Adding freshly grated cheese enhances the flavor and gives a creamy texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella: A sprinkle of mozzarella can melt beautifully on top for an extra cheesy experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to each serving.
• Basil Leaves: Whole basil leaves can provide an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.

Include a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances the hearty soup perfectly.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to achieve a delicious result every time.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality broth significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking for the best flavor balance.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors; aim for at least 30 minutes if you have time.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for added texture and nutrition; chickpeas also work well!
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast and is perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds healthy fiber and nutrients.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and flavor.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side dish.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add substance and are great for those who enjoy hearty meals.
7. Spinach Salad: A spinach salad with nuts and vinaigrette brings freshness to your table.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory soup flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure you take the time to soften them for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long will result in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using low-quality broth: A good broth enhances the soup’s flavor. Use low-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth for richer taste.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the cooking process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow the soup to simmer adequately for a hearty, comforting meal.

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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 Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian bean and pasta soup, loaded with vegetables and savory flavors, inspired by Olive Garden’s recipe.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli Soup, simply substitute ground beef with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize your Pasta e Fagioli Soup by adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

The total time is about 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! Pasta e Fagioli Soup stores well and tastes even better after sitting overnight, so it’s great for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. The hearty mix of beans, pasta, and vibrant vegetables makes it comforting and satisfying. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!