Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Hearty and comforting, the Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is a delightful dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your home. Packed with ground beef, beans, and vegetables in a rich tomato broth, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and filling. This recipe shines at family gatherings, casual dinners, or even as a meal prep option for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Enjoy a delicious blend of spices and fresh ingredients that make each bowl irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this comforting soup ready in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of beef and beans provides protein to keep you satisfied.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or paired with crusty bread for dipping.
• Large Batch: This recipe yields 16 servings, making it great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for simmering large quantities of soup evenly without mess.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware and perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching surfaces.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 12 ounces chopped onion
• 14 ounces slivered carrots
• 14 ounces diced celery
• 48 ounces canned diced tomatoes

For the Beans

• 2 cups cooked, drained red kidney beans
• 2 cups cooked, drained white kidney beans

For the Broth and Seasoning

• 2 3/4 quarts beef broth
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
• 48 ounces marinara sauce

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces small shell macaroni (or other small dried pasta shape)
• 5 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it starts to brown.
3. Stir in the chopped onions, slivered carrots, diced celery, and canned tomatoes. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Mix in the cooked red kidney beans and white kidney beans.
2. Pour in the beef broth along with oregano, pepper, Tabasco sauce, and marinara sauce.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer until the celery and carrots are tender (about 45 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the small shell macaroni into the pot.
2. Continue simmering until the pasta is fully cooked.
3. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving to enhance flavor.

This hearty soup will surely become a favorite in your household! Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) with friends and family!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Serving your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is just as important as preparing it. The right serving suggestions can elevate the meal experience, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve warm crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth. A sourdough or baguette complements the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Parmesan

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This adds a savory depth and enhances the overall taste.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or basil on top for freshness and color. It not only looks appealing but also adds a burst of flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair your soup with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup perfectly.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in an edible bread bowl. This adds to the presentation and makes for easy cleanup!

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup relies on attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables for better flavor and texture. Fresh produce can significantly elevate your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust spices accordingly. Adding a bit more oregano or pepper can personalize the flavor to your liking.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Consider cooking the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy if you plan to store leftovers. Add it just before serving.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together, creating a richer broth.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance. This gives time for flavors to develop, making it even tastier when reheated.

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

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

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that is perfect for soaking up broth, garlic bread is quick to prepare and always a favorite.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the soup’s heartiness while adding freshness.

3. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant yet easy-to-eat side.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and robust flavors that pair well with the soup.

5. Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks filled with gooey cheese are delightful alongside any Italian dish, especially this soup.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances the dining experience with different textures and flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup at home can be delightful, but some common mistakes can hinder the experience. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold phrase: Overcooking the Vegetables – Many people cook vegetables too long, causing them to lose their texture and flavor. Only simmer until they’re tender.
• Bold phrase: Skipping Fresh Herbs – Neglecting fresh herbs can make your soup taste flat. Always add fresh parsley or other herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Bold phrase: Using Low-Quality Broth – A good broth is key to a rich soup. Avoid low-quality store-bought broths; instead, use homemade or high-quality store options.
• Bold phrase: Not Adjusting Seasoning – Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and tweak as necessary.
• Bold phrase: Adding Pasta Too Early – Adding pasta too soon can lead to mushy noodles. Wait until the soup is almost done simmering before adding pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

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

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)?

The total time for this recipe is about 65 minutes, including 20 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.

Can I customize Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or use different types of beans based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or changing the types of beans used. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave comfort food. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!