Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe brings the comforting flavors of a classic Italian soup right to your kitchen. This hearty dish is ideal for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weekdays. With its blend of fresh vegetables, savory ground beef, and tender pasta, this recipe offers a satisfying experience that warms both heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a complete meal in one bowl.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A combination of herbs and spices elevates the taste, creating a rich and savory broth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well, allowing for easy reheating throughout the week.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite beans or veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients while allowing them to simmer properly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps break down meat easily.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground beef
– 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
– 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
– 1 cup diced carrots (approximately 2 medium carrots)
– 1 cup diced celery (approximately 3 stalks)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced (1 Tbsp))
– 3 cans (8 oz each tomato sauce)
– 2 cans (14.5 oz each low-sodium chicken broth)
– 1/2 cup water (plus additional as needed)
– 1 can (15 oz 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 (to taste)
– 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
– 1 can (15 oz dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
– 1 can (15 oz great northern beans, drained and rinsed)
– 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
– Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a separate plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until the vegetables become tender, approximately six minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, and diced tomatoes. Add the sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the soup simmers, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add cooked pasta, kidney beans, and great northern beans to the soup. If too thick, add more broth or water as needed. Cook for another minute before stirring in fresh parsley. Serve warm topped with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

This comforting soup is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works great to soak up the delicious broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This adds a creamy richness that complements the flavors perfectly.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your Pasta e Fagioli in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation and tasty vessel for the soup.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Achieving the best flavor and texture in your Pasta e Fagioli is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of the soup and provide vibrant colors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your personal preference for the perfect balance.
• Simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. Just be sure to not overcook the vegetables.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Experiment with beans: Feel free to use other types of beans if you have them on hand for added texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Complement your hearty soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Garlic Bread – Crisp on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of broth.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing adds freshness next to your warm soup.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic make a refreshing appetizer.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms stuffed with a savory filling can add an elegant touch to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy side that pairs well with the richness of the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheese creates a delightful starter that whets the appetite before enjoying your pasta dish.
7. Polenta Fries – Crispy polenta fries offer a unique twist and are great for dipping into your flavorful soup.
8. Zucchini Fritters – Lightly fried zucchini fritters add crunch and complement the comforting nature of Pasta e Fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Boldly season your dish: Forgetting to season the soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Avoid overcooking pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta longer than necessary can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and cook it al dente for the best texture.

• Don’t skip the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the soup enhances their flavor. Take the time to properly sauté onions, carrots, and celery.

• Use fresh ingredients: Relying on canned or expired ingredients can compromise taste. Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and quality broth for optimal flavor.

• Mind your ratios: Adding too many beans or pasta can make the soup too thick. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, keeping space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer portions of soup into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring frequently.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe that may help you while cooking!

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or ground lamb for a different flavor profile while keeping it hearty.

How can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach or zucchini. You can also adjust herbs according to your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

If you can’t find ditalini pasta, any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or small shells will work just fine!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the ground beef and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add more beans for protein if desired.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time for this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is approximately 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that make it a comforting meal any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, a delightful Italian-inspired soup that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Packed with savory ground beef, hearty beans, tender ditalini pasta, and an array of fresh vegetables, this dish is not only filling but also easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week, this recipe balances delicious simplicity with robust flavors. Serve it warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cans (15 oz each) beans (dark red kidney and great northern), drained and rinsed

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef thoroughly, then drain excess fat.
2. Add remaining olive oil to the pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until tender. Stir in minced garlic.
3. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram; return cooked beef to pot. Season with salt and pepper; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are soft.
5. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions; drain.
6. Stir cooked pasta and beans into the soup; adjust consistency with additional broth if needed. Cook for another minute before stirring in fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg