Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. This soup is hearty, filled with nutritious ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. It features a rich blend of flavors from ground beef, vegetables, and beans, all simmered in a savory broth that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that’s truly satisfying.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter; it pairs perfectly with bread or salads.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and wholesome.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Knife – A sharp knife makes food prep easier, ensuring even cuts for better cooking consistency.

Ingredients

To make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 tsp. minced garlic

For the Broth

• 3 8oz. cans tomato sauce
• 2 14.5oz. cans low sodium beef broth
• 1 14.5oz. can petite diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. salt, more or less to taste
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

For Beans and Pasta

• 1 15oz. can dark red kidney beans, drained
• 1 15oz. can cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Serving

• Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat and return it to the stove.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Broth Ingredients

Next, pour in the tomato sauce, low sodium beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper into the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

While your soup simmers away, bring a separate small pot of water to boil. Cook your ditalini pasta according to package directions until al-dente.

Step 5: Add Beans

Once your soup has simmered for ten minutes, stir in the drained kidney beans and cannellini beans. Allow them to heat through while checking seasoning; add water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 6: Mix in Pasta

After draining the pasta once cooked perfectly al-dente, add it directly into your soup mixture. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its warmth and comfort. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the soup perfectly.
• Crusty Italian Bread – Ideal for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up every bit of flavor.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic that adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad – Tossed with a simple vinaigrette, it provides a light contrast to the hearty soup.

Garnished Options

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for an aromatic touch.
• Parmesan Cheese – A generous sprinkle enhances the savory elements of the dish.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Perfecting your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can take it from good to great. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh veggies enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer will deepen the flavors, creating a richer taste.
• Cook Pasta Separately – Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy when added to the soup later.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil; perfect for adding a fresh bite.
2. Caprese Salad – Layers of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze; a refreshing side.
3. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, artichokes, and cheeses that offers variety and complements the soup’s flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, or meat add a hearty element to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted till caramelized bring out natural sweetness that pairs well with the soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots – Soft dough baked with garlic butter and cheese; an irresistible addition that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the flavor and texture of this dish. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can result in a dry texture. Aim for a nice brown color without overdoing it.
• Skipping Fresh Vegetables: Using canned vegetables instead of fresh can make your soup taste bland. Always opt for fresh, chopped vegetables for more flavor.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season properly can lead to a dull soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors.
• Using Too Much Broth: Adding too much broth can make your soup watery. Stick to the recommended amounts and add more only if needed.
• Cooking Pasta Too Long: Overcooked pasta will become mushy when added to the soup. Cook it al-dente before combining it with the soup.
• Neglecting Toppings: Skipping toppings like parmesan cheese can take away from the overall experience. Don’t forget that final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative while still providing great flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegan version.

What is the best pasta to use in this recipe?

Ditalini pasta is traditional, but any small pasta shape like elbows or shells will also work well.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its heartiness makes it suitable for family dinners or meal prep. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, and enjoy this delicious Italian-inspired recipe!