Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Hearty and comforting, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) brings the flavors of Italian cuisine right into your kitchen. This delightful soup is a perfect choice for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with family and friends. Packed with ground beef, beans, fresh vegetables, and pasta in a rich tomato broth, it’s not just filling but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy this dish as a meal on its own or pair it with crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a crowd-pleaser, making it suitable for family dinners or potlucks.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and vegetables, it’s a healthy option.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served as an appetizer alongside your favorite salad.
• Comfort Food Classic: The rich flavors make it ideal for cozy nights in or festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently to avoid scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate amounts of ingredients for the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 12 ounces chopped onion
• 14 ounces slivered carrots
• 14 ounces diced celery
• 48 ounces canned diced tomatoes

For the Beans

• 2 cups cooked, drained red kidney beans
• 2 cups cooked, drained white kidney beans

For Flavoring

• 2 3/4 quarts beef broth
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
• 48 ounces marinara sauce

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces small shell macaroni (or other small dried pasta shape)

For Garnish

• 5 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Cook the beef in vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon until it starts to brown. Then add the onions, carrots, celery, and canned tomatoes. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the cooked beans, beef broth, dried oregano, pepper, Tabasco sauce, and marinara sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow it to simmer until the celery and carrots are tender—this usually takes about 45 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Pasta

Stir in the small shell macaroni into the soup mixture. Let it simmer further until the pasta is cooked through according to package instructions.

Step 4: Serve with Fresh Parsley

Before serving, stir in fresh parsley for added flavor. Ladle your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion.

For a Family Dinner

• Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with a loaf of freshly baked crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
• Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

As a Lunch Option

• Accompany with a Salad: A light green salad dressed in vinaigrette complements the soup nicely.
• Make it a Sandwich Combo: Enjoy the soup alongside a turkey or veggie sandwich for a filling lunch.

For Gatherings

• Buffet Style: Set up a self-serve station where guests can enjoy the soup and customize it with toppings like fresh herbs or additional spices.
• Garnish Creatively: Offer chopped parsley, croutons, or chili flakes for guests to add their personal touch.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and some simple techniques to enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Sauté vegetables until they are caramelized; this adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley right before serving brightens the dish and enhances its aroma.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for perfection.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of the soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a colorful appetizer.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with rice, beans, and spices for a nutritious side that pairs well with soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs bring vibrant flavors to your table.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits loaded with cheese are delightful when enjoyed alongside warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be an art, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls you should avoid when making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe).

• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality ingredients can affect the overall flavor of your soup. Always choose fresh vegetables and good-quality ground beef for the best results.
• Skipping the simmering time: Not allowing enough simmer time can lead to undercooked vegetables and flavors that haven’t melded properly. Follow the cooking times closely to enhance taste.
• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust the spices accordingly for a delicious balance.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add the pasta too early or cook it too long, it can become mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it’s just right.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley can result in a less vibrant dish. Always finish with fresh garnishes to elevate both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe).

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this soup.

What beans should I use?

Red kidney beans and white kidney beans are traditional choices, but feel free to mix in other varieties that you enjoy.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or beans based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm bowl filled with rich flavors!