Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a comforting soup that brings the flavors of the restaurant right into your home. It’s perfect for cold evenings, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a hearty meal. With its rich blend of savory beef, beans, and pasta, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You’ll find it’s a go-to recipe that warms the heart and fills the belly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Comfort: Packed with beef, beans, and spices, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty soup—perfect for picky eaters!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: A good-quality pot distributes heat evenly, ensuring your soup cooks perfectly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps combine ingredients seamlessly.
• Chopping board: Keeps your workspace tidy while providing a stable surface for chopping vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Vegetables and Beans

• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can cannellini beans or great northern beans (drained)

For Seasoning and Broth

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Add the beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat until just browned, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. It’s not necessary to drain the fat.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, canned beans, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (everything except the pasta and salt & pepper). Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce heat. Let simmer covered with a lid slightly open for 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add in the pasta. Continue to simmer until it’s tender—about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally so that pasta does not stick to the bottom of the pot. If you plan on having leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately.

Step 6: Season Before Serving

Season your soup with salt & pepper as needed before serving. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy dinners and can be complemented with various sides and garnishes.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and pairs beautifully with the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top to enhance the taste and add a savory kick.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella cheese can create a creamy texture that complements the soup’s hearty ingredients.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Pasta e Fagioli.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil sprinkled on top can brighten the dish and add aromatic notes.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also offers a vibrant taste.

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How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To achieve restaurant-quality Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly improve flavor compared to canned or dried options.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in leftovers.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings to suit your preferences; this allows for a personalized touch.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Add More Beans: For added texture and nutrition, feel free to mix in more beans like chickpeas or lentils.
• Experiment with Spice: Don’t hesitate to adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a spicier kick.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful soup.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots tossed in garlic and herbs are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness to your meal.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy essence that goes well with the richness of the soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted peppers creates an inviting appetizer before the main dish.
5. Romaine Lettuce Wraps: Lightly dressed romaine wraps filled with grilled chicken offer a crunchy contrast.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with hearty soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden pasta e fagioli at home can be delightful, but there are common mistakes that can diminish the quality of your soup.

• Skipping the Browning Step – Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful base. Always ensure the meat is well-cooked before adding vegetables.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture, or add it in later if you expect leftovers.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your soup bland. Remember to taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs accordingly.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients – Opting for subpar canned tomatoes or broth may compromise flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Storage Tips – Not storing leftovers properly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and label them with dates for safe storage.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months; label with date.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden pasta e fagioli.

How do I make my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli thicker?

To thicken your soup, consider adding more beans or mashing some of them up. You can also reduce the liquid by simmering longer.

Can I use different types of beans in Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes! Feel free to swap out beans based on your preference. Black beans or pinto beans can also work well in this recipe.

What is the best way to customize Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

You can add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition. Additionally, adjusting spice levels allows you to cater to your taste preferences.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden pasta e fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or enjoying it as meal prep, it’s sure to satisfy. Feel free to customize ingredients based on what you have at home!