Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy lunch on a chilly day, this classic Italian soup will warm your heart. Packed with lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful beans in a rich tomato broth, it’s not just satisfying but also easy to make at home. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!

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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
• How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Broth and Beans
• Step 5: Cook Pasta
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Cheese
• As a Side Salad
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Pasta e Fagioli?
• Can I use different types of beans?
• How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• How long does Pasta e Fagioli last in the fridge?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Flavorful Delight: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and savory taste.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or a side, it works for lunch and dinner alike.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a fulfilling option for any appetite.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-haves for preparing Pasta e Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, making prep easier and faster.

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)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Ground 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. Break it apart into small pieces as it browns.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Remove the cooked beef from the pot and drain excess fat. Set aside. In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth into the mixture. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with optional fresh basil or Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pasta e Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair your soup with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls make for perfect dipping into the hearty broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a salty kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top creates a creamy texture that enhances the soup’s richness.

As a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory soup.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty meal perfectly.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil leaves add brightness and an aromatic touch to each bowl.
• Parsley Sprigs: A few sprigs of parsley not only look great but also enhance flavor.

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How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Making the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your palate.
• Choose Quality Broth: Using a good-quality chicken broth enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy while simmering in the soup.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Consider Adding Meat Variations: For added depth, try using Italian sausage or turkey as alternatives to ground beef.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can create a wholesome meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing accompaniment.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is flavorful without overpowering the main dish.
3. Italian Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds healthy variety to your plate.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice and ground meat for a hearty side that complements the soup well.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies provides great variety and flavor balance.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft and fragrant focaccia brings an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not properly browning the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to brown the meat well before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on it for perfect tenderness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for a well-balanced flavor.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Drain and rinse your canned beans to remove excess sodium and improve texture in your soup.
• Not letting it simmer enough: Skipping the simmering time can result in bland flavors. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 10 minutes to let all ingredients meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool before placing it in the fridge to maintain quality.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer individual portions into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature, typically around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often enriched with vegetables and meat. This Olive Garden Copycat version brings that same hearty comfort home.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While Great Northern and kidney beans are commonly used, feel free to substitute with other varieties like cannellini or pinto beans based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does Pasta e Fagioli last in the fridge?

Pasta e Fagioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before losing its quality.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to mix in your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings according to taste. It’s perfect for cozy lunches or dinners, especially when shared with family or friends. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!