Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is a warm and hearty dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings, this recipe brings together rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and satisfying textures. With its blend of beans, pasta, and ground beef simmered to perfection, you’ll find it hard to resist a second bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and savory experience that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this delicious soup packed with wholesome goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups, allowing even heat distribution for thorough cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up meat evenly.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Pasta

• 1 cup small shell pasta (or ditalini)

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Season It Up

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to release those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Broth

Add in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the small shell pasta to the pot. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Step 7: Taste Test & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat when satisfied with flavor.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Serve hot in bowls garnished with chopped parsley. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before enjoying!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This hearty Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli makes for a satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be paired with various sides and toppings to enhance the experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.
• Thyme Sprigs – A few sprigs of thyme can add a delightful earthiness to the soup.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping and enjoying alongside the soup.
• Italian Bread – Freshly baked Italian bread can be perfect for soaking up those delicious broth flavors.

Garnish with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and adds a creamy texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melting mozzarella over the top before serving creates a rich, indulgent finish.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad – The crunch of croutons and crisp romaine pairs well with the comforting flavors of Pasta E Fagioli.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

To ensure your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve great flavor and texture in every bowl.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs contribute significantly to the overall taste of your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Start with less salt and pepper; you can always add more as it cooks to avoid oversalting.
• Cook Pasta Separately – If you prefer a firmer pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Rest – Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Properly – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing Tips – If freezing, omit pasta from the recipe; add cooked pasta when reheating for best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible accompaniment.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for a fresh, flavorful side.
3. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring color and nutrition to your table.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries offer a healthy alternative to traditional fries while still being satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli, avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious result.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: High-quality broth and fresh vegetables significantly enhance flavor. Always opt for good-quality beef broth and fresh produce.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions and add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting before serving is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference, as flavors may vary based on ingredients used.
• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic builds depth in flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for a robust taste.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Skipping the simmering stage can result in bland soup. Let your soup simmer for at least 20-25 minutes to meld flavors properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

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

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot, stirring between.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans for added flavor and texture.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace ground beef with plant-based protein or skip it entirely. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What type of pasta works best?

Small shell pasta or ditalini is ideal for this recipe due to their size and shape, which complements the soup well.

Can I prepare Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for longer preservation.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is not just comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or using different proteins. Whether served on its own or with crusty bread, it’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!