Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is loaded with hearty vegetables and tender beans, delivering rich flavors in every bite. Its comforting nature makes it a staple for chilly days, and it’s easy to prepare, making it suitable for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, this soup will keep you satisfied.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 50 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite veggies or beans based on what you have on hand.
• Flavorful: The blend of herbs and spices creates a deliciously aromatic experience that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta e Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.

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Ingredients

This Pasta e Fagioli is one of my all-time favorite soups and one of my most popular recipes! It’s loaded with vegetables and brimming with Italian flavor. It’s perfectly comforting, hearty, and absolutely delicious!

• 2 Tbsp olive oil, (divided)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced (1 Tbsp))
• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water, (then more as desired)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese, for serving
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Crumble in the lean ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally until cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Drain excess fat from the beef then transfer it to a plate and set aside. Heat the remaining olive oil in the same pot. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender, about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add low-sodium chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, granulated sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried marjoram, cooked beef back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let simmer while stirring occasionally until veggies are soft, about 15 -20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, prepare ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 6: Add Beans and Pasta

Add cooked pasta into the soup along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans. If desired, thin out the soup with more broth or water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Allow to cook for an additional minute. Stir in minced parsley before serving warm topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your flavorful bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Serving Pasta e Fagioli Soup is as delightful as making it. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in several ways to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in a deep bowl for a comforting meal that highlights its rich flavors.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with minced fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh taste. It brightens the dish beautifully.

Crusty Bread

• Accompany your soup with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop!

Salad Pairing

• Offer a side of mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. The freshness complements the heartiness of the soup.

Family Style Serving

• For gatherings, serve the soup in a large pot at the table, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can take it from great to extraordinary. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible. They bring natural flavors and vibrant colors to your soup.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate for the perfect balance of flavors.

• Al Dente Pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy once added to the soup.

• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Just make sure not to overcook the vegetables.

• Add Extra Beans: For even more protein and fiber, consider adding an extra can of beans like cannellini or chickpeas.

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time; it often tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge as flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic side is perfect for dipping into your soup and adds wonderful flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan dressing adds crunch and freshness alongside the warm soup.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a flavorful appetizer that complements Italian cuisine perfectly.

4. Caprese Salad
   Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices create an appealing side that pairs well with Italian flavors.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings vibrant colors and complements the flavor profile of Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

7. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and bread makes for a delightful shareable option before diving into your main dish.

8. Cornbread Muffins
   Slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a unique twist and balance out the savory elements of the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold Ingredients: Forgetting to use fresh ingredients can dull the flavor of your soup. Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs when possible.
• Bold Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy in the soup. Always cook it al dente, as it will continue to soften once added to the broth.
• Bold Not Seasoning Enough: Skipping seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Bold Ignoring Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering step won’t fully develop the flavors. Allow your soup to simmer adequately for at least 15-20 minutes.
• Bold Using Canned Ingredients Only: Relying solely on canned ingredients can make the soup taste one-dimensional. Incorporate fresh veggies for a burst of flavor and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

How do I make Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version while using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I customize the ingredients in Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap beans based on your preference.

How does this Pasta e Fagioli Soup compare to Olive Garden’s version?

This copycat recipe captures all the rich flavors of Olive Garden’s famous soup while allowing you control over ingredients and seasoning.

What should I serve with Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! This versatile recipe is perfect for customization, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or beans. I encourage you to try making this delightful soup at home; it’s sure to become a favorite!