How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

A cozy bowl of soup can warm the heart and soul, especially when it’s How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home. This hearty Italian-style soup combines pasta, beans, and beef in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners or a comforting meal on chilly nights, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to create this favorite dish right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, making this soup is a breeze even for novice cooks.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of herbs and spices elevates the taste, making every spoonful delightful.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish fits perfectly.
• Comforting and Filling: It’s a hearty meal that satisfies hunger while providing warmth on cold days.

Tools and Preparation

To make How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering your soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.

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Ingredients

A hearty Italian-style soup with pasta, beans, beef, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth—cozy, filling, and easy to make at home.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

For the Broth and Pasta

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasonings

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Add 1 lb of ground beef.
3. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the beef is browned:
1. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Next:
1. Stir in the drained kidney beans and great northern beans.
2. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Seasonings

Now:
1. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth.
2. Add basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Reduce heat:
1. Stir in 1 cup of ditalini pasta.
2. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve Hot

When ready:
1. Ladle into bowls.
2. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-inspired soup!

How to Serve How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is as important as making it. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavor and appeal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: A warm loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These are a classic pairing that adds a delightful crunch and flavor.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the soup’s richness.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the hearty pasta e fagioli.

As Part of a Family Meal

• Serve with Grilled Chicken: Adding grilled chicken can turn this soup into a complete meal.
• Enjoy with Cheese-Stuffed Shells: This combination offers a comforting Italian dinner experience.

How to Perfect How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

To make your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a brighter taste.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth or add more pasta.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality canned tomatoes can elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, it’s light and flavorful.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrients.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, they’re hearty and satisfying.
5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables pairs well with the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Their sweetness complements the savory notes of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using low-quality or expired ingredients can affect the soup’s flavor. Always use fresh, high-quality vegetables and broth for the best results.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Neglecting to sauté the onions and garlic can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take time to properly sauté these ingredients before adding others.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can cause it to become mushy. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it al dente.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning throughout cooking can leave your soup bland. Taste frequently and add salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping or shortening the simmering time will prevent flavors from fully developing. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 20-30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Not storing properly: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Make sure you store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about how to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner protein option while maintaining flavor.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap out beans based on your preference for a unique twist.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

You can substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells that will fit well in the soup.

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home without canned beans?

You can use dried beans instead; just soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow proper storage guidelines after cooking.

Final Thoughts

How to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. This hearty soup offers plenty of room for customization—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends, so give it a try!