Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is the perfect way to enjoy a cozy meal at home. Packed with hearty vegetables and seasoned ground beef, it delivers a comforting bowl of Italian flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner, this soup is versatile and satisfying, making it ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with protein and fiber, ensuring it keeps you satisfied for hours.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or a side, perfect for any season or gathering.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the beans for others to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cooking spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps mix ingredients thoroughly while cooking.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized and safe while chopping vegetables.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}, gather the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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: Cook the Ground Beef

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Add low-sodium chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, canned 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 the Soup

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

Step 5: Prepare Ditalini Pasta

• While the soup simmers, prepare ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 6: Finalize Soup

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

Step 7: Serve

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

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

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Here are some delicious ways to serve this hearty soup.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread – A warm, crusty loaf pairs perfectly for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These buttery sticks enhance the flavor with every bite.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Romano Cheese – Sprinkle generously on top for added richness.
• Parmesan Shavings – Use fresh shavings for a gourmet touch.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the soup’s flavors well.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

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

To ensure your Pasta e Fagioli Soup turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preferences.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor – Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the depth of flavor.
• Store Properly – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for best quality.

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

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is filling on its own, but pairing it with side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options.

1. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, it’s a flavorful starter.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar add brightness.
3. Antipasto Platter – Include olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables for variety.
4. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice and veggies for a hearty complement.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned seasonal veggies provide a healthy side option.
6. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad with veggies makes a nutritious addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and quality broth for the best flavor. Avoid canned or frozen veggies that lack nutrients.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a rich soup base.
• Overcooking the pasta: Al dente pasta is key. It will continue cooking in the soup, so slightly undercook it during preparation.
• Neglecting seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to develop the best flavor profile in your soup.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool down before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}:

Can I use different beans in my Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

You can definitely swap out beans! Chickpeas or black beans work well if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

What can I add for extra protein?

Adding cooked chicken or turkey is a great option for more protein while keeping it hearty and delicious!

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

Absolutely! Just omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or lentils for protein.

How do I store leftovers of Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time—give it a try!