Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is a delightful soup that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. With tender beef, nutritious beans, and vibrant vegetables, this recipe stands out with its delicious taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices and hearty ingredients creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Easy Meal Prep: This soup can be made in larger batches and stored, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef and beans, along with plenty of veggies, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile Recipe: Customize with your favorite beans or vegetables to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Quick to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta E Fagioli recipe seamlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without spills, giving you control over portion sizes.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 whole carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Broth and Beans

• 6-8 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Seasonings and Tomatoes

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 whole bay leaves
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

For the Pasta

• 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta

How to Make Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat after browning.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they become tender. Then add minced garlic to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Soup Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, cannellini beans, chickpeas, red kidney beans, seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, basil), bay leaves, and crushed tomatoes into the pot. Stir everything together well. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 25–30 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4: Add Orzo

Stir in the dried orzo pasta. Cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade Pasta E Fagioli!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store pasta separately from soup in airtight containers in your fridge for up to three days.

How to Serve Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Serving Pasta E Fagioli is all about enhancing its hearty flavors. This comforting soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and color.

Alongside a Salad

• Serve with a light garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Add grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of creaminess.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.

With a Splash of Lemon Juice

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

To achieve the ultimate comfort in your Pasta E Fagioli, consider these helpful tips. These simple adjustments will enhance taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide more vibrant flavors compared to dried or canned options.

• Brown the Meat Well – Properly browning the ground beef adds depth and richness to the soup’s flavor profile.

• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go; seasoning levels can vary based on personal preference and ingredient freshness.

• Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors, making it even more satisfying.

• Cook Orzo Separately – Cooking orzo separately ensures it doesn’t absorb too much broth, keeping your soup from becoming too thick.

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

Pasta E Fagioli pairs well with several side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside the soup.

3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and flavorful addition.

4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrients and bring additional colors to your table.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer that pairs beautifully with the soup.

6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats balances out the dish nicely.

7. Polenta Cakes – Crispy polenta cakes can be served on the side for added texture and flavor.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip – Creamy dip served with tortilla chips or pita bread creates a delightful start before enjoying your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta E Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are common mistakes you should avoid:

• Skipping the browning step – Not browning the beef properly can lead to a bland soup. Take the time to cook the beef until it’s well-browned for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables – If you cook the vegetables too long, they can become mushy. Aim for just tender vegetables to maintain a good texture in your soup.
• Using high-sodium broth – A salty broth can overpower the other flavors in your Pasta E Fagioli. Choose low-sodium options and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Forgetting to drain beans – Not rinsing canned beans can introduce excess sodium and an off taste. Always drain and rinse them before adding them to your soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Every batch of soup may need different amounts of salt and spices. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pasta E Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pasta E Fagioli:

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often including vegetables and meat for added flavor.

Can I make Pasta E Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources like lentils or extra beans.

How do I store leftover Pasta E Fagioli?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even whole wheat options based on your preference.

What’s the best way to customize this recipe?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables, swap out beans, or incorporate fresh herbs based on what you have available!

Final Thoughts

This Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is not only comforting but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners at home. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!