Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe brings the beloved flavors of the restaurant right into your home. Perfect for cozy dinners, this hearty soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With its rich blend of beans, ground beef, and spices, it offers a warm embrace on chilly days and is excellent for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this soup can be on your table in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or salads.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and veggies, it’s both nourishing and satisfying.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you will need for this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and ample space for all the ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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 Tomato Mixture

• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

For the Beans

• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can cannellini beans or great northern beans (drained)

For the Broth and Seasoning

• 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

To Taste

• Salt & pepper

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. I don’t drain the fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat. Let the soup simmer covered (with lid slightly open) for 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta into the soup. Continue simmering until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Stir occasionally so pasta doesn’t stick. If saving leftovers, cook pasta separately.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Season with salt & pepper as needed before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli! This comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden pasta e fagioli is all about enhancing the dining experience. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the rich flavors, perfect for dipping.
• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the hearty soup beautifully.
• Greek Salad: Fresh vegetables and feta cheese add a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

Top with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can add a creamy texture that enhances each bowl.

Include a Splash of Hot Sauce

• Hot Sauce Variety: Offering different hot sauces allows guests to customize their spice level, adding excitement to every bowl.

Personalize with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil adds brightness and a hint of freshness.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances appearance but also boosts flavor.

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How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To make your Olive Garden pasta e fagioli truly exceptional, consider these tips that can elevate your dish:

• Seasoning: Adjust spices according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to add more Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh vegetables for richer taste and texture.
• Pre-cook Pasta Separately: If you want leftovers, cook pasta separately. This keeps it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to rest after cooking can help meld the flavors together, creating a more robust taste.
• Garnish Wisely: Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added depth and richness.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different beans like black beans or pinto beans for unique variations in flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden pasta e fagioli can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes a flavorful appetizer.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a delightful bite-sized treat.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers offer a fresh, tangy complement.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and peppers creates an enticing starter.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s health factor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can lead to delicious results, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• ground beef: Not browning the beef properly can lead to a greasy texture. Make sure to cook it until it’s just browned for the best flavor.
• undercooking vegetables: Skipping the sautéing step or rushing it may leave the vegetables crunchy. Take your time cooking them until they soften for a richer taste.
• skipping seasoning: Forgetting to add salt, pepper, or herbs will dull the flavors of your soup. Always season at the end and taste as you go for optimal flavor.
• adding pasta too soon: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Wait until the soup has simmered before adding it, or cook separately if storing leftovers.
• using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin your soup’s taste. Choose a good-quality chicken broth for a more flavorful Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s some helpful information about making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta. It’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion.

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

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach or swap out the beans according to your preference for added variety.

Is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from the beef and beans while also providing plenty of fiber from the vegetables and legumes.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe offers comfort and warmth in every bowl. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe; you’ll love how satisfying it is!