Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a beloved classic that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With layers of flavor from ground beef, beans, and Italian spices, it’s sure to be a hit at family dinners or cozy gatherings. Enjoy the rich, savory broth and tender pasta that truly make this recipe stand out!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Broth
• For the Beans and Pasta
• Seasonings
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Step 1: Brown the Beef
• Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer with Broth
• Step 6: Cook Pasta
• Step 7: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Classic Serving Suggestions
• Meal Presentation Ideas
• How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?
• Can I use other types of beans?
• Is this recipe customizable?
• How can I make it vegetarian?
• Can I prepare this ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and can be made in just one pot.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and Italian seasoning creates an unforgettable taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or beans according to what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience much smoother. Here are the essentials you’ll need to whip up this delicious Pasta e Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for sautéing ingredients evenly and allowing for ample cooking space.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring everything combines well.

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 Broth

• 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

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Brown the 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 until browned. Break it apart into small pieces as it cooks.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat

Remove the cooked beef from the pot. Drain any excess fat before setting it 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. Simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Step 7: Serve Hot

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 warm, filling dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting main course or paired with complementary sides, this recipe brings out the best of Italian flavors.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the rich flavors of the soup.
• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top just before serving for an aromatic touch.

Meal Presentation Ideas

• Soup Bowls: Use deep bowls to serve your Pasta e Fagioli, allowing guests to enjoy every spoonful in comfort.
• Garnish with Olive Oil: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the soup for added richness and flavor depth.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and herbs. They add vibrant flavors that dried or canned options can’t match.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then taste and adjust before serving. This helps prevent over-seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your ditalini pasta is cooked al dente. It will continue to soften in the soup after cooking, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.

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Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pasta e Fagioli pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its savory profile. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds crunch and flavor; easy to make by spreading garlic butter on slices of baguette and toasting them.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction; it’s light and full of flavor.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a bright side that balances the hearty soup.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates an inviting starter or accompaniment.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized; they bring a sweet depth that complements the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente doneness.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality matters! Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality broth to enhance the flavors of your soup.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can result in bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Not Letting It Simmer: Skipping the simmering step prevents flavors from developing. Allow the soup to simmer to bring out the best taste.
• Ignoring Leftovers: Pasta e Fagioli tastes even better the next day! Don’t hesitate to save leftovers; they’ll be a delicious meal later.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

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

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian soup that combines pasta and beans in a rich broth, inspired by Olive Garden’s version.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute with cannellini beans or pinto beans if desired.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini according to your taste.

How can I make it vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually improves in flavor after sitting for a while, making it great for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) offers comforting flavors that are perfect any day of the week. It’s versatile too—customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious bowl of goodness!