Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe} is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s great as a comforting weeknight dinner or served at gatherings with friends and family. Loaded with nutritious vegetables and hearty beans, this soup is brimming with Italian flavor that will remind you of your favorite restaurant experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, ensuring it keeps you satisfied.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each ingredient brings its unique taste, creating a rich, savory blend that delights your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for leftovers during busy weekdays.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for easy stirring and prevents spills while simmering.
• Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for mixing without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your soup.

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 browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Drain any excess fat from the beef and set aside. In the same pot, heat another Tbsp of olive oil. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté over medium-high heat until tender, about six minutes. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, water, diced tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, and the cooked beef to 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 for about 15–20 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Add Beans and Pasta

Add cooked pasta to the soup along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans. If needed, thin with additional broth or water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Allow everything to cook together for one more minute. Stir in parsley before serving warm topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

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

Serving Pasta e Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing the comforting experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors. Serve slices warm for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the soup.

Garnished with Cheese

• Shredded Romano Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top for a creamy finish that complements the soup’s richness.
• Parmesan Crisps: For an added twist, serve Parmesan crisps on the side for some extra crunch.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can balance the hearty soup, offering a crisp texture and zesty flavor.
• Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil works beautifully with the Italian flavors of Pasta e Fagioli.

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

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli Soup involves attention to detail and some helpful tips to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Freshly chopped vegetables not only improve flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrition to your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste your soup as it simmers. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs gradually for a well-rounded taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just until al dente ensures it retains its texture when added to the soup.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together. Just be sure to stir occasionally!
• Add Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at serving adds brightness and enhances all the flavors in your soup.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery knots infused with garlic complement the savory flavors of the soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens provide a refreshing contrast, balancing out the heartiness of the soup.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a burst of flavor that pairs well with Italian dishes.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer a hearty addition alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and complement the dish’s Italian flair.
6. Cheesy Risotto Balls: Crispy on the outside and creamy within, these risotto balls are perfect for dipping into your soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step – Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to soften your onions, carrots, and celery for better depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy noodles. Cook the ditalini pasta separately until al dente and add it just before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always taste your soup before serving and tweak with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Using low-quality broth – The broth is a key component of this soup. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth for a richer flavor.
• Ignoring bean preparation – Not rinsing canned beans can lead to a gritty texture. Be sure to drain and rinse your beans thoroughly before adding them to the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

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

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}

• Oven – Preheat at 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli Soup that may help you get it just right.

Can I use different types of beans in Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match beans according to your preference. Great northern beans and kidney beans work well together but others like black beans can also be used.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute ground beef with lentils or additional vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with Pasta e Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden Copycat Recipe}?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread for dipping.

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

The total time is around 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight meal!

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or switching up the type of meat or beans used. Give this Olive Garden copycat recipe a try; your family will love it!