Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot tastes even better than the restaurant version. This soup is perfect for cozy nights at home or a family gathering. Loaded with healthy ingredients, it’s both comforting and satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up in your Instant Pot, making this recipe a go-to for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beans, tomatoes, and Italian seasonings creates a rich and hearty flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or substitute the pasta according to your preference, making this recipe truly yours.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is a nutritious option that satisfies cravings without guilt.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any occasion!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot recipe, you will need a few essential tools. These items will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This versatile appliance allows for quicker cooking times while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts, making prep work faster and safer.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian Ground Beef Sausage (**Use mild or spicy. You can use 1:1 ground beef : sausage. 16 oz/454 g.)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (**Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)
• 15 oz Kidney Beans (**Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)
• 14 oz Diced Tomatoes (**with juices. I used diced tomatoes with basil, oregano & garlic. 1 can / 411 g.)
• 8 oz Tomato Sauce (**226 g / 1 can.)
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (**diluted in about 4 tbsp water.)
• 1 cup Onion (**roughly chopped. Use yellow or white onion.)
• 1.5 tbsp Garlic (**minced)
• 3/4 cup Carrot (**roughly cubed)
• 3/4 cup Celery (**roughly chopped. About 2 sticks.)
• 1 cup Ditalini Pasta (**you can use small elbow or shell pasta. Use 3/4 cups in that case.)
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt (to taste) (**use according to taste.)
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Oregano (**dried from the bottle.)
• 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning (**dried from the bottle.)
• 1.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (**skip if heat intolerant. Use 1.5 tsp if you love spicy food.)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 6 cups Chicken Stock (**Use 7-7.5 cups for thinner soup. I used four better than bouillon cubes diluted in hot water.)
• Parsley (**fresh flat leaf parsley chopped, use handful.)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (**drizzle the soup.)
• Parmesan Cheese (**grated. I did not use any)
• Ground Black Pepper

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Step 1: Set Up Your Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot on SAUTE & set it on HIGH heat. Add olive oil.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

When the oil becomes hot, gently release the ground meat into the pot.
* Saute until nicely browned, stirring frequently with a spatula.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the meat is browned:
* Add chopped onion and minced garlic.
* Saute for about one minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables

Throw in the chopped carrots and celery:
* Stir everything together and saute for another minute.

Step 5: De-glaze the Pot

Pour in chicken stock:
* De-glaze the pot by scraping the sides and bottom with a spatula to prevent burning.

Step 6: Season It Up

Add all seasonings:
* Include paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and salt.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add tomatoes (diced tomatoes, paste & sauce), drained beans, and pasta:
* Stir everything until evenly mixed.

Step 8: Pressure Cook

Cancel SAUTE function:
* Close the lid of the Instant Pot.
* Seal the valve and PRESSURE COOK on HIGH for just four minutes.

Step 9: Release Pressure

Once pressure cooking is complete:
* Perform a quick pressure release (QPR) by moving the valve from SEALING to VENTING position carefully open the lid.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

The amazing wholesome Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli is ready:
Serve immediately as longer resting time may result in overcooked pasta.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, crushed black pepper, grated parmesan (if using), and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Serving Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli from the Instant Pot is quick and easy, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Here are some simple serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread alongside to soak up the delicious broth.
• Italian Focaccia – This soft and flavorful bread adds a delightful texture contrast.

Fresh Salad Options

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad complements the soup’s heartiness.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing balance.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with color and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For those who like a spicy kick, offer this on the side.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

To make your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality stock can greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Since the pasta continues to cook in the soup after pressure cooking, aim for al dente when adding it to the pot.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Pair your Instant Pot soup with some delightful side dishes for a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft dough balls brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible addition.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a fresh bite.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add nutrition and flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy, tasty contrast.
5. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese complements the savory soup perfectly.
6. Simple Green Salad – A light salad dressed in vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your soup. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long will result in mushy noodles. Add the pasta during the last minute of cooking in the Instant Pot to keep it al dente.
• Not sautéing properly: Skipping the sauté step can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the meat and sauté your vegetables first to develop rich flavors.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient adds unique flavors, so be sure to taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices if needed.
• Using low-quality stock: The stock is a key component of your soup’s flavor. Use high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for deeper, more satisfying flavors.
• Neglecting to de-glaze the pot: Forgetting this step can cause food particles to stick and trigger the BURN warning on your Instant Pot. Always scrape up any stuck bits before pressure cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for optimal preservation.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot that may help clarify your cooking process.

Can I make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef sausage with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

The total time is about 25 minutes, including prep and cook time. However, remember that it may take a bit longer for pressure build-up.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! You can mix different beans based on your preference, such as black beans or pinto beans.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe offers versatility; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this deliciously hearty soup!