Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Hearty and satisfying, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. This delicious soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of ground beef, beans, and vegetables in a rich tomato broth. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main dish, this recipe is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of herbs and spices creates a deep, savory taste that will warm you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this soup fits any occasion.
• Family Friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike, it’s a great way to get everyone excited about dinner.
• Makes Plenty – With 16 servings, it’s ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot – Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Cooking spoon – A sturdy spoon helps in stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring an even mix of flavors.

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Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe):

Meat and Beans

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 cups cooked, drained red kidney beans
• 2 cups cooked, drained white kidney beans

Vegetables

• 12 ounces chopped onion
• 14 ounces slivered carrots
• 14 ounces diced celery
• 48 ounces canned diced tomatoes

Liquids and Broth

• 2 3/4 quarts beef broth
• 48 ounces marinara sauce

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce

Pasta and Garnish

• 8 ounces small shell macaroni (or other small dried pasta shape)
• 5 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

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

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the vegetable oil in your large stockpot over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon.
2. Cook until it starts to brown.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned:
1. Stir in the chopped onions, slivered carrots, diced celery, and canned tomatoes.
2. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, add in the rest of your ingredients:
1. Mix in the red kidney beans, white kidney beans, beef broth, dried oregano, pepper, Tabasco sauce, and marinara sauce.
2. Allow everything to simmer gently until the celery and carrots are tender—approximately 45 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

After simmering:
1. Stir in your small shell macaroni.
2. Cook until al dente according to package directions.

Step 5: Finish with Parsley

Finally:
1. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving to add freshness and color.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe), perfect for any gathering or cozy night in!

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

Serving your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate the dining experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Enjoy slices of garlic bread to add a savory touch that complements the soup’s flavors.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup before serving for a nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella on top for a gooey, melty finish.

As Part of a Meal

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a healthy and vibrant addition.

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

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust spices based on your taste preference for a more personalized flavor profile.
• Quality broth: Use homemade or high-quality beef broth for richer depth in flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables instead of canned for added texture and nutrition.
• Cook pasta separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy during storage and reheating.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make this salad refreshing and light.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs offer a satisfying complement.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables adds variety to your meal.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs well with soup.
5. Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing gives a nutritious boost alongside the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes while preparing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for tender but firm veggies by adding them at the right time.
• Skipping the Simmering Step: Not allowing enough time for flavors to meld can result in a bland soup. Simmer for at least 45 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a rich, robust soup.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season as you go can lead to an underwhelming dish. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Not Cooking Pasta Separately: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the soup can cause it to become soggy. Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigeration.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

How do you make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) healthier?

You can use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a lower-fat option. Adding more vegetables is also a great way to boost nutrition.

Can I customize ingredients in this Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different beans, vegetables, or even swap out pasta shapes based on your preference.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe) last?

When stored properly, this soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What other dishes pair well with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Copycat Recipe)?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, salad, or even a side of steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful comfort food that warms the soul. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite beans or extra vegetables. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how versatile and satisfying it is!