Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Indulge in the warmth and comforting flavors of this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe, a delightful Italian-American soup that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home, featuring tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty beans simmered in a rich broth. It’s not just filling; it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Easy to prepare in about 40 minutes, this pasta e fagioli will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein and fiber, this dish will keep you satisfied without compromising health.
• Versatile Meal: Great for family dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s sure to please guests of all ages.
• Rich Flavor Profile: A combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a deliciously hearty broth.
• Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and store leftovers easily for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

For this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for evenly cooking your ingredients while allowing ample space for simmering the soup.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes preparation quicker and safer when cutting ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in your ingredient quantities for the best flavor.

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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 Broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Beans

• 1 can red kidney beans (14 oz, drained)
• 1 can cannellini beans (14 oz, drained)

For Seasoning

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
• Vinegar (to taste)
• Sugar (to taste)
• Italian seasoning (to taste)
• Oregano (to taste)
• Basil (to taste)
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic; sauté for about 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked ditalini pasta and simmer until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for a crunchy complement to the soup.
• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette can be perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese over each bowl for added richness (ensure it’s vegetarian if desired).

As a Full Meal

• Add a Side Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the hearty soup.
• Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables can add an extra layer of nutrition and flavor.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To achieve the best results with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly season your broth: Enhancing the chicken broth with additional spices can deepen the flavor profile.
• Use fresh vegetables: Opt for fresh, vibrant vegetables for added texture and taste.
• Cook pasta separately: To maintain the pasta’s texture, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Adjust thickness as needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more beans.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad, crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing and croutons.
2. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice and baked until tender.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a fresh appetizer.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini grilled until tender; a healthy side option.
6. Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs make a satisfying complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef well can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always cook until browned for a rich taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can turn it mushy. Monitor the time closely; it should be al dente when added.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient contributes unique flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs before serving.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin the soup’s overall taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth.
• Forgetting fresh ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can dull flavors. Whenever possible, use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that can help enhance your cooking experience.

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a rich Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta simmered in flavorful broth.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or switch out the beans based on your preference.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, simply replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What should I serve with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies all appetites.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home—give it a try!