Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a cozy lunch, this soup offers the rich flavors of Italian cuisine right in your own kitchen. With lean ground beef, tender veggies, and wholesome beans simmered in a savory tomato broth, this one-pot meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Plus, it tastes even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and one pot required, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort Food – The combination of beef, beans, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously comforting dish.
- Healthy Ingredients – Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is both nutritious and filling.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Pasta e Fagioli, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for making soups as they provide ample space to cook ingredients evenly.
- Chef’s knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Measuring spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
For the Liquid Components
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
For the Beans and Pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
For Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes. Break it apart into small pieces as it browns.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
Remove the cooked beef from the pot. Drain excess fat if necessary and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth
Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes so flavors develop.
Step 6: Cook Pasta
Stir in the ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli!
How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
Pasta e Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread complements the soup perfectly, adding a crunchy texture.
- Crusty Italian Loaf: This bread absorbs the flavorful broth, making each bite more satisfying.
Topped with Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the savory flavors of the soup.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melting mozzarella on top adds a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the hearty ingredients.
As a Starter
- Small Bowls: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer before the main course. It’s a great way to start any meal.
- With Salad: Pairing with a simple green salad brightens up the meal and adds freshness.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Basil: Adding chopped basil not only improves presentation but also brings out vibrant flavors.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley can add color and freshness to each bowl.
How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
To achieve the best version of Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips. Each one will enhance flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meats make a difference in taste. Opt for organic produce when possible.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect balance.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens the flavors. Don’t rush this step!
- Cook Pasta Separately: For firmer pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Make Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different beans for added texture and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
Serving side dishes alongside Pasta e Fagioli enhances your meal experience. Here are some great pairings.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Antipasto Platter: This colorful assortment of cheeses, olives, and cured meats makes for an inviting starter.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats add an earthy flavor that complements the soup well.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a light and flavorful side option.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomato mixture adds brightness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and taste to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to brown it until it’s fully cooked.
- Using low-quality broth: A bland broth can dull the flavors of your dish. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for a more robust taste.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Add it in the last 10 minutes for perfect texture.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Every ingredient can vary in flavor, so don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Ignoring vegetable prep: If your vegetables are not diced evenly, they may cook unevenly. Take time to chop them into similar sizes for consistent cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until warmed through, about 5-8 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?
Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables. This copycat version replicates the flavors found in Olive Garden’s beloved dish.
Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the ground beef or replace it with plant-based protein.
How do I adjust the thickness of my Pasta e Fagioli?
If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. For thicker soup, let it simmer longer without the lid.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preference or what you have on hand. Customize it as you like!
Final Thoughts
This comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is perfect for any meal—lunch or dinner. Its delightful combination of flavors makes it a versatile dish that you can easily customize with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you’ll enjoy its warmth and heartiness!
Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the cozy comfort of Pasta e Fagioli, an Olive Garden copycat recipe that brings authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen. This hearty soup combines lean ground beef, protein-packed beans, and tender vegetables simmered in a savory tomato broth, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple lunch, this one-pot dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Plus, it tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 3–5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, sauté diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic until softened (about 4 minutes).
- Return the beef to the pot; add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir well.
- Add beans and chicken broth; simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until pasta is tender (about another 10 minutes).
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
