How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

A hearty and comforting dish, learning How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home is a delightful experience. This Italian-style soup combines pasta, beans, beef, and fresh vegetables in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and full of flavor that will warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a savory, satisfying taste.
• Versatile Meal – Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love this hearty soup; it’s sure to become a family favorite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – A good-sized pot allows for even cooking while accommodating all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything mixes well.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee consistency in flavor and texture.
• Knife and cutting board – Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

A hearty Italian-style soup with pasta, beans, beef, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth—cozy, filling, and easy to make at home.

For the Soup Base

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

For the Beans and Broth

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Seasoning

• 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 Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat:
– Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Once hot, add 1 diced onion. Sauté until translucent.
– Add 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• Push the vegetables to one side of the pot.
• Add 1 pound of ground beef to the empty side. Cook until browned completely.
• Stir everything together once the beef is cooked through.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Spices

• Mix in 3 minced garlic cloves.
• Sprinkle in 1½ teaspoons basil, 1 teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes & Broth

• Pour in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes and 15 ounces of tomato sauce. Stir well.
• Add in 4 cups of beef broth. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Add Beans & Pasta

• Once boiling, lower the heat to simmer.
• Stir in both cans of drained beans (kidney beans and great northern beans).
• Add in 1 cup of ditalini pasta. Simmer for about 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once cooked:
– Taste test for seasoning adjustments.
– Ladle into bowls and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

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

This comforting Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is perfect for any meal. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the soup in a deep bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping, adding texture and flavor.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a rich, savory finish.

Accompanied by Salad

• Offer a side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty soup.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy it as a standalone main dish, perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.

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

Making this delicious soup even better is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents overcooking.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors. Just be careful not to overcook the beans.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for variety or use your favorites instead of what’s listed.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. The flavors will deepen overnight!

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

Complement your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli with these delightful side dishes that elevate your meal.

1. Garlic Bread
   Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the soup’s flavorful broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons adds a crunchy contrast.

3. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing bite.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offers a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs create an irresistible appetizer option.

6. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that complements the soup’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your soup turn out perfect every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong beans: Stick to kidney and great northern beans for authentic flavor. Substituting different beans can alter the taste and texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta should be added towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Follow the timing closely for the best results.
• Not seasoning enough: Season your broth well with salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and thyme. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors throughout.
• Skipping aromatics: Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are essential for building flavor. Don’t skip or skimp on these ingredients!
• Rushing the simmering process: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This helps meld the flavors beautifully for a hearty dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label them with the date.

Reheating How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at Home

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about how to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home.

What makes this recipe a copycat of Olive Garden’s?

This recipe mimics Olive Garden’s famous pasta e fagioli by using similar ingredients like ground beef, beans, and rich tomato broth, ensuring that it captures the same comforting essence.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer lighter options while still maintaining delicious flavor.

How do I customize my soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust herbs according to your taste preferences as well!

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is about 55 minutes—15 minutes for prep and 35 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for how to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home is not only cozy and filling but also highly versatile. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to fit your taste. Enjoy this comforting soup any night of the week!