Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

When the weather turns chilly or you just need a soul-warming dish, nothing quite hits the spot like a bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli. This hearty soup is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup requires minimal prep and can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: A blend of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously complex flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side; it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with beans and vegetables, this dish offers protein and fiber while being low in calories.
• Freezable Option: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later on; just reheat and enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering soups, allowing ingredients to meld together perfectly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, making prep easier and safer.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Allow for precise ingredient measurements to ensure balanced flavors.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onions
• 1 cup diced celery stalks (around 3 stalks)
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium-sized)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced (approximately 1 tablespoon))

For the Broth

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each low-sodium chicken broth)
• 3 cans (8 oz each tomato sauce)
• 1 can (15 oz diced tomatoes)
• ½ cup water (add more if necessary)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
• ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for subtle smoky depth)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for gentle heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta & Beans

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz great northern beans, drained and rinsed)

For Serving

• 3 tablespoons freshly minced parsley
• Finely grated Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• Push the vegetables to one side of the pot. Add remaining olive oil, then add ground beef.
• Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

• Stir in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• Add ditalini pasta to the pot. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Add Beans

• Stir in both types of beans until heated through.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

• Ladle soup into bowls. Top with minced parsley and sprinkle Romano or Parmesan cheese before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade bowl of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is an art that enhances its rich flavors and comforting essence. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the savory broth.

Garnished with Cheese

• Grated Romano Cheese: A sprinkle of finely grated Romano cheese elevates the dish with a salty richness.
• Parmesan Crisps: Serve alongside homemade Parmesan crisps for an extra cheesy crunch.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a refreshing contrast with its crisp greens and creamy dressing.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and a few cooking tips. Follow these suggestions for an exceptional dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! You may want to adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs based on personal preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid sogginess, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad made with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice, veggies, and spices make for a nutritious side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil offer a delightful complement to the hearty soup.
4. Focaccia Bread: Soft and fragrant focaccia is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses creates a savory starter before the main dish.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not Prepping Ingredients Properly: Ensure all vegetables are chopped evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and enhances the overall texture of the soup.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Season your broth early in the cooking process. This allows flavors to develop and prevents blandness.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Add ditalini pasta towards the end of cooking. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, ruining your soup’s consistency.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Invest in good-quality broth and tomatoes. The base flavors significantly impact the final dish, so choose wisely.
• Ignoring Personal Touches: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Customization can elevate Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli to match your taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow cooling completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli that can help you perfect your dish.

How do I make Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

You can omit the ground beef and replace it with more beans or additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or mini shells work well too.

What is the best way to store Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months for optimum freshness.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and heartiness make it a family favorite. Try customizing it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist on this classic recipe!