Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Even better than Olive Garden’s infamous recipe, this Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is an Italian-inspired soup loaded with hearty beef, plenty of veggies, beans, and orzo. Comforting and delicious, it’s perfect for easy meal prep and cold winter nights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is filled with ground beef, beans, and vegetables that make it filling enough for any meal.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of only 45 minutes, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for a cozy dinner or packed for lunch the next day. It stores well and tastes great reheated!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables makes each bite bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to introduce more legumes and veggies into your family’s diet without them noticing!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for making a big batch of soup to feed your family.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 whole carrots (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For Flavoring

• 6-8 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 whole bay leaves

For the Beans & Tomatoes

• 1 can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

For the Pasta

• 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta

How to Make Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef, cooking until browned. Break it into crumbles while cooking. Drain any excess fat after it’s browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they become tender. Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the low-sodium beef broth, tomato sauce, drained beans, seasonings, crushed tomatoes, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir well to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 25–30 minutes until all vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4: Cook Orzo Pasta

After simmering, add uncooked orzo pasta into the pot. Cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Pasta E Fagioli!

Step 6: Storage Tips

Store any leftover pasta separately from the soup base in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Now you’re ready to make this delicious Pasta E Fagioli at home! Enjoy every warm bowlful on those chilly evenings!

How to Serve Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Pasta E Fagioli is a versatile soup that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience and make the most of this hearty dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for a lovely aromatic touch.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate Parmesan cheese over each serving for a rich and savory finish.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty Italian bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with garlic breadsticks for a comforting, filling meal.

As a Meal Prep Option

• In Meal Prep Containers: Store individual portions in airtight containers to enjoy throughout the week.
• With Extra Orzo: Keep extra orzo on the side to add just before serving for optimal texture.

How to Perfect Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Creating the perfect bowl of Pasta E Fagioli takes a bit of care. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; it’s easier to add more salt or herbs than to fix an overly seasoned dish.
• Cook Orzo Separately: For best results, cook orzo separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Allow Flavors to Marry: Let the soup simmer longer if you have time; this deepens the flavors and makes every bite more satisfying.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for added texture and nutrition.
• Store Properly: Keep pasta and broth separate when storing leftovers for better freshness later.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta E Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup well.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the soup’s warmth.
2. Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make great finger food alongside your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and flavor variety.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty accompaniment, providing extra protein and fiber.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar add an earthy element that complements the dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta E Fagioli can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and quality beef for your soup. Higher-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Don’t rush by adding everything at once. Sautéing the vegetables first helps develop deeper flavors in your soup.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup as it cooks! Adjust seasonings throughout to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Add the orzo towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness. It’s better to have al dente pasta than overcooked.
• Not Storing Properly: If you’re making this ahead of time, store pasta and soup separately. This helps maintain texture and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta E Fagioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables. It’s often enjoyed as a comforting meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it entirely for a delicious vegetarian version of Pasta E Fagioli.

How do I customize my Pasta E Fagioli?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like kale or spinach, or switch up the beans based on what you have on hand.

What kind of broth is best?

Using low-sodium beef broth enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness. You could also use vegetable broth for a lighter option.

How long does it take to cook?

The total time for preparing this recipe is about 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is not just comforting but also versatile for any meal. You can customize it with different veggies or beans based on your preferences. Try making this delightful soup today!