Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italian cuisine right into your kitchen. Perfect for a family meal or casual get-together, this recipe combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and beans in a rich tomato broth. It’s an ideal choice for cozy lunches or dinners, and it tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.

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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 and Beans
• For the Pasta
• For Garnish
• 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 Beans and Broth
• Step 5: Cook Pasta
• Step 6: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add Fresh Toppings
• Serve in Individual Bowls
• Accompany with Salad
• 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
• Can I use other types of beans?
• What type of pasta should I use?
• How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
• Can I prepare Pasta e Fagioli ahead of time?
• How do I serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be prepared in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and hearty ingredients guarantees a warm and satisfying dish.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beans and beef, along with vitamins from fresh vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize clean-up with this easy one-pot recipe—less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Pasta e Fagioli, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. These essential items will help you prepare this delicious dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even cooking.

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 and Beans

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

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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 well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Now add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. 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 for another 10 minutes or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot with a garnish of fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Serving your homemade Pasta e Fagioli can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
• Italian Bread: Freshly baked Italian bread is excellent for dipping into the rich broth.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a creamy texture.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil not only adds color but also a burst of freshness.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Serving in individual bowls allows guests to enjoy their own servings, making it feel special.

Accompany with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens are a simple and healthy side dish option.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To ensure your Pasta e Fagioli turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: This keeps the soup hearty without excess grease.
• Chop Veggies Uniformly: Even-sized vegetable pieces ensure they cook evenly and enhance presentation.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps deepen the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the taste of your soup.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This dish tastes even better when made a day in advance, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad features ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers a delightful variety of tastes.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and cheese make for a hearty side that complements the soup.
4. Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries add a fun twist and pair nicely with the rich broth.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy addition that balances the meal’s heartiness.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are perfect for dipping into your delicious soup while adding cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of their Pasta e Fagioli. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always take time to soften your carrots, onions, and celery for deeper flavors.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early or cook it too long, it becomes mushy. Add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in a dull taste. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your preference during cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can diminish the dish’s quality. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for the best results.
• Making Too Much: Cooking more than you can eat means leftovers that may lose quality. Consider scaling down if you’re cooking for fewer people.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

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

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat).

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute with other beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

What type of pasta should I use?

Ditalini is traditional, but any small pasta like elbow macaroni works well too.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I prepare Pasta e Fagioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes better the next day after the flavors meld together.

How do I serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

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