Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Hearty and satisfying, this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your table. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Packed with ground beef, beans, fresh vegetables, and small pasta in a rich tomato broth, this comforting soup is both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a side, this soup suits various occasions from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience, gather essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: This is crucial for cooking large batches of soup evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for perfect flavor balance.

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Ingredients

To create this flavorful Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), you’ll need the following ingredients:

Protein

• 2 pounds ground beef

Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 12 ounces chopped onion
• 14 ounces slivered carrots
• 14 ounces diced celery

Tomatoes & Beans

• 48 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cups cooked, drained red kidney beans
• 2 cups cooked, drained white kidney beans

Broth & Sauce

• 2 3/4 quarts beef broth
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
• 48 ounces marinara sauce

Pasta & Garnish

• 8 ounces small shell macaroni (or other small dried pasta shape)
• 5 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Beef

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon until it starts to brown.
• Stir in the chopped onion, slivered carrots, diced celery, and canned tomatoes. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

• Incorporate the cooked red kidney beans, cooked white kidney beans, beef broth, dried oregano, pepper, Tabasco sauce, and marinara sauce into the pot.
• Allow everything to simmer until the celery and carrots are tender; this should take about 45 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

• Add the small shell macaroni into the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender as per package instructions.
• Stir in chopped fresh parsley just before serving for added freshness.

Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) as a comforting meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving guests, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and adds a satisfying crunch.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only adds color but also enhances the flavor of the soup.

Offer Grated Cheese

• A small bowl of grated Parmesan cheese allows guests to customize their soup, adding creaminess and depth.

Serve with Salad

• A simple green salad complements the hearty soup, providing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Include Extra Pepper Flakes

• For those who like a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up!

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

To make your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds the flavors together beautifully; just be sure to check the pasta’s doneness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go—adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
• Add Variety: Feel free to mix in different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand for a personalized touch.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted bread with garlic butter brings an irresistible flavor that complements your soup.

2. Caprese Salad
   A fresh combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness and freshness to your meal.

3. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses provides a variety of flavors that pair well with soup.

4. Italian Bruschetta
   Topped with diced tomatoes and basil on toasted bread slices, this appetizer brings delightful flavors to your table.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside the hearty soup.

6. Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
   These delicious peppers filled with rice and cheese make for a hearty complement to your dish.

7. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing offers crunch and creaminess that pairs nicely with the soup.

8. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad brings contrasting textures and flavors that can balance out the warm soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks face challenges when making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe). Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Not browning the beef properly: If you skip browning the ground beef, your soup may lack depth of flavor. Take the time to cook it until well-browned for a richer taste.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables too large can result in uneven cooking. Chop them into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly and blend well in the soup.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality beef broth can lead to a bland soup. Opt for a high-quality or homemade broth to enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adding pasta too early: If you add the pasta too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until the vegetables are tender before adding the pasta for perfect texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Each ingredient’s freshness can vary, so always check if your dish needs extra salt, pepper, or herbs.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) that can help clarify any doubts.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to prepare Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)?

The total time is about 65 minutes. This includes 20 minutes for prep and 45 minutes for cooking.

What type of pasta should I use?

Small shell macaroni works well, but you can substitute with any small dried pasta shape like ditalini or elbow macaroni.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Its rich flavors and customizable ingredients make it a versatile option for any meal. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to adapt it with your favorite veggies or beans!