Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply when you’re craving something hearty and comforting. Loaded with vegetables and protein, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting: This soup warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for chilly nights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and pasta, it’s a complete meal that satisfies hunger.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in less than an hour.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is essential for making soups; it allows ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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, about 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

For the Pasta and Beans

• 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

For Serving

• 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: Brown the Beef

• Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Crumble in the lean ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
• Drain excess fat from beef and transfer it to a plate; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, heat remaining olive oil.
• Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery; sauté until tender, about 6 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, canned diced tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried marjoram, and cooked beef.
• Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

• Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low.
• Cover the pot with a lid and let simmer for about 15 -20 minutes until veggies are soft.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

• Meanwhile, prepare ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 6: Finish the Soup

• Add cooked pasta along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans into the soup.
• If desired, thin with more broth or water as needed. Allow to cook for an additional minute.

Step 7: Serve

• Stir in fresh parsley before serving warm. Top each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

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

Serving Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience, as this hearty dish can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping. A fresh baguette or Italian bread works beautifully.

With Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad complements the richness of the soup. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.

With Grated Cheese

• Top each bowl of soup with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy the soup on its own as a filling main dish. It’s hearty enough to satisfy without additional sides.

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

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. This allows you to personalize the flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook your ditalini pasta al dente, so it maintains some firmness when added to the soup.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step; let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
• Add Beans Last: Stir in beans at the end of cooking to keep them intact and prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like cheese and herbs. They add essential flavor and visual appeal.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this comforting soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the soup’s texture.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction adds brightness.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a heartier option alongside the soup.
4. Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes serve as an excellent base that soaks up extra broth from the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side that complements the Italian flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting appetizer spread before serving soup.
7. Crispy Zucchini Fries: These can be dipped into the soup or enjoyed alongside for added crunch.
8. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese add comfort and warmth that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} from good to great.

• Skipping the sautéing step: This is crucial for developing flavors. Always sauté onions, carrots, and celery until tender before adding the liquids.
• Overcooking the pasta: To keep your soup perfect, cook the ditalini pasta al dente. It will soften further when added to the soup.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your soup! Adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: A good broth enhances the soup’s flavor. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth that complements the ingredients.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of simmering time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or rigid containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious soup.

How can I customize Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For a spicier version, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños!

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What types of beans can I use?

Besides kidney and great northern beans, feel free to try black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

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

The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 35 minutes of cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is not only comforting but also packed with flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a delightful starter, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!