Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this recipe captures the essence of the beloved classic. With hearty beans, small pasta, and ground beef simmered in a rich tomato broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This dish combines protein-rich beef with wholesome beans and pasta, making it a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this comforting soup in just an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients and simmering the soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up the ground beef evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced

For the Soup

• 1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups beef broth

For Flavoring

• 1 cup small shell pasta (or ditalini)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• to taste Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to enhance their flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Broth

Add the canned kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

In the last 10 minutes of cooking time, add the small shell pasta. Follow package instructions until al dente.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed before removing from heat.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

This comforting dish is not only hearty but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether for a family meal or a cozy gathering, there are several delightful ways to present your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil can complement the Italian seasoning and provide a fragrant aroma.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve thick slices of crusty bread on the side for a classic Italian experience.

Add Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds richness and depth to each bowl.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella on top can create a delightful creamy texture in every spoonful.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs well, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the pasta e fagioli.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

To make your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli even more flavorful and satisfying, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Opt for freshly diced onions, garlic, and herbs whenever possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste throughout cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preferences for a personalized flavor.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens flavors. If time permits, let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving to maintain its texture.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting soup.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks served warm are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides a savory start to your meal.
4. Italian Roasted Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with Italian herbs enhances your meal’s flavor profile.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs make for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs beautifully with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta E Fagioli can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality beef: Poor quality meat can impact the flavor of your soup. Always choose fresh, lean ground beef for the best taste.
• Neglecting to season properly: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland results. Taste and adjust salt and spices throughout cooking for a well-rounded flavor.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and add pasta in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Forgetting to rinse beans: Not rinsing canned beans may add excess sodium and a metallic taste. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them to your dish.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavors significantly. Don’t skip the chopped parsley for garnish; it adds freshness and color.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this dish that might help you as you prepare your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli.

How long does it take to make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken.

What can I serve with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or garlic breadsticks.

Is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from beans and beef, plus plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious option.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables or changing the protein source. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and sure to satisfy any appetite. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italian-American comfort food at home!