Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of a favorite restaurant right into your home. This hearty soup, filled with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and beans, is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a warm Italian meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with rich flavors from herbs and spices, every spoonful warms your soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans for a unique twist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta and soup, making this a hit for the whole family.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup efficiently, gather the necessary tools before starting your cooking journey.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities while allowing room for simmering ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate seasoning for balanced flavor in your soup.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• 3 8oz. cans tomato sauce
• 2 14.5oz. cans low sodium beef broth
• 1 14.5oz. can petite diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For Beans and Pasta

• 1 15oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 15oz. can cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Serving

• Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary and return to the stove.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
Cook these vegetables until they are tender—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Flavorful Base

Pour in tomato sauce, low sodium beef broth, diced tomatoes along with basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta

While the soup simmers, bring a small pot of water to boil.
Cook ditalini pasta according to package directions until al-dente.

Step 5: Combine Beans into Soup

Stir in both drained kidney beans and cannellini beans into the soup.
Cook until heated through; taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 6: Add Pasta to Soup

Drain cooked pasta thoroughly then add it directly into the soup.
Stir gently to combine all ingredients well.

Step 7: Serve Hot with Cheese

Ladle piping hot soup into bowls.
Top each serving with fresh grated Parmesan cheese before enjoying!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is an opportunity to enhance its delicious flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish, making your meal even more enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup. A rustic baguette or sourdough works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light garden salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The crisp greens add a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

As Part of a Multi-Course Meal

• Include this soup as an appetizer in a multi-course Italian dinner. Follow it up with a pasta dish or protein for a complete experience.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, giving it that homemade taste.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Every palate is different, so make it just right for you!

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the ditalini pasta is cooked al dente before adding it to the soup. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the broth.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors. Just keep an eye on the liquid level so it doesn’t reduce too much!

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread complements the soup beautifully and is perfect for soaking up every last drop.

2. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a light balance to the hearty soup.

3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.

4. Italian Antipasto Platter: A platter featuring olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers creates a flavorful start to your meal.

5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers another comforting option that goes well with the flavors of the soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the soup’s ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your soup turns out delicious.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for a few minutes before adding liquids.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Cook it al dente in a separate pot and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Using High Sodium Broth: Using regular broth can make the soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Not Checking Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t forget to adjust liquid levels. Keep an eye on consistency as it simmers and add water if needed.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup that may help you enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that can offer a lighter option while maintaining flavor.

How long does Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

The soup lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I add more vegetables to my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with additional veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

Is this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta options and check your broth label for any hidden gluten ingredients.

What other beans can I use in this soup?

You can substitute different beans such as black beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, this recipe invites creativity while capturing that beloved restaurant essence. Try this recipe today and feel free to tweak it with your favorite vegetables!