How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

A hearty Italian-style soup, How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home brings the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine right into your kitchen. Packed with pasta, beans, beef, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this delicious soup on a busy weeknight.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and fiber from beef and beans, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the veggies or beans based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it an excellent choice for leftovers or frozen meals.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich tomato broth combined with herbs creates a warm and inviting flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this flavorful soup requires some essential kitchen tools. Gathering these items will help ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering large quantities of soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Olive Garden-inspired soup, gather the following ingredients:

Meat and Beans

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained

Vegetables

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids and Broth

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth

Pasta and Seasonings

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add 2 tbsp olive oil.
2. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
3. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot.
2. Add the ground beef to the empty side and cook until browned.
3. Stir everything together once the beef is cooked through.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
2. Add the beef broth to the mixture and stir well.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Pasta

1. Stir in both cans of drained beans.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Once boiling, add 1 cup of ditalini pasta.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to low:
1. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Season to Taste

1. After simmering, add basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference.
2. Allow it to cook for an additional few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-inspired Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Perfect Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of fresh Italian bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the rich broth, adding to the meal’s coziness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. It adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor profile.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the soup well. The crispness of the greens balances the warmth of the dish.
• Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for sopping up any leftover broth. Their garlic flavor pairs beautifully with the soup.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving brings an added depth of flavor and richness.

How to Perfect How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

To ensure your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality beef and fresh vegetables. This will elevate the overall taste and make your soup more flavorful.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer longer if possible. This helps all ingredients meld together, creating a richer flavor.
• Pasta Choice: Use ditalini pasta as specified or substitute with small shell pasta for another fun texture in your soup.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth if needed for consistency.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is always a favorite alongside any soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a tangy contrast that complements the richness of the soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds freshness to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices provide a hearty addition to your dinner table.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds great flavor while being healthy.
6. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese are perfect for dipping into the soup and add a comforting touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality – Using low-quality ingredients can alter the taste of your soup. Always choose fresh vegetables and quality beef for the best flavor.

• Skipping the simmering step – Rushing through cooking can lead to a bland soup. Allow the flavors to meld by simmering the ingredients properly.

• Overcooking the pasta – Ditalini pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Add it towards the end of cooking for the perfect texture.

• Not seasoning enough – Under-seasoning can make your soup taste flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

• Using canned beans without rinsing – Rinsing beans removes excess sodium and improves flavor. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• The soup will maintain its best quality for about 3 months.

Reheating How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home:

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home vegetarian?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with additional beans or lentils for protein.

What type of beans are best for Pasta e Fagioli?

A mix of kidney beans and great northern beans works well. They add texture and protein while enhancing the soup’s heartiness.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or shells, keeping in mind cooking times may vary.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli last?

When stored properly, this hearty soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a cozy dish that brings comfort to any dinner table. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for customization; feel free to add more vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste. Try making it today!

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Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, a classic Italian bean soup that warms both body and soul. This hearty dish is loaded with tender ground beef, nutritious beans, fresh vegetables, and al dente ditalini pasta all simmered in a savory tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for endless customization based on your pantry staples. Enjoy this satisfying meal that brings a touch of Italy to your kitchen!

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Olive oil and seasonings (basil, oregano, thyme)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until softened.
2. Push vegetables aside and brown the ground beef in the pot.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth; stir well to combine.
4. Incorporate drained beans and bring the mixture to a gentle boil before adding ditalini pasta.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes.
6. Season with basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg