Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Indulge in the warmth and comforting flavors of this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe, a delightful Italian-American soup that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. Loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty beans simmered in a rich broth, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. It’s not just filling; it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Easy to prepare in about 40 minutes, this pasta e fagioli will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from lean ground beef and fiber from beans, it’s both satisfying and healthy.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory ingredients creates a rich, hearty flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love this delicious soup, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife speeds up chopping vegetables accurately and safely.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Beans

• 1 can red kidney beans (14 oz, drained)
• 1 can cannellini beans (14 oz, drained)

For Flavoring

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic; sauté for about 8–10 minutes until tender. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. This allows flavors to develop while preventing overflow.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked ditalini pasta and continue to simmer until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that enhances the enjoyment of this hearty soup. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread for a tasty accompaniment that complements the Italian flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves right before serving to enhance the aroma and taste.

Served with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with Pasta e Fagioli, providing a crunchy contrast.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible, as they enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning according to your preference for salt and spices.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for varied textures and flavors.
• Store Properly: If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs create a perfect pairing with this soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil makes for a delightful appetizer or side.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds nutrition and color to your table.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that complements the soup’s richness.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices provide a hearty addition that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to run into a few common issues. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong Pasta: Choosing a pasta that takes longer to cook can lead to mushy results. Stick with ditalini or small pasta shapes that cook quickly.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing your vegetables and meat can result in a bland soup. Always take the time to brown your ground beef and soften your vegetables for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add the pasta too early, it may become overcooked and lose its texture. Add it near the end of cooking to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can make it taste flat. Taste and adjust your seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs towards the end of cooking.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or old ingredients can affect the overall taste of your dish. Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that might help you:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

You can easily substitute ground turkey for a leaner option without compromising on flavor.

What beans work best in Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Red kidney beans and cannellini beans are traditional choices that add both texture and protein.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth along with more beans and vegetables for added nutrition.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or spice it up with more red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, so give it a try!