If you love the heartwarming flavors of Olive Garden, you’re in for a treat with this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe. This dish is not just comforting; it’s packed with nutrients and flavors that will have you coming back for seconds!
Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup, often enjoyed for its hearty ingredients and rich flavor. Olive Garden’s version has become a fan favorite, and now you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your kitchen. Here’s how to make your own Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped finely
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery ribs, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 (8oz) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14.5oz) cans beef broth
- 1 (14.5oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 8 oz dry ditalini pasta
- 1 (15oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cooking the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Adding Vegetables
Once the beef is cooked, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Stir them into the meat. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Combining the Sauces
Next, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, canned tomatoes, and water to the pot. Mix in the dried basil, oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then let it simmer for about 5-6 minutes.
4. Cooking the Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
5. Adding the Beans
After the pasta is cooked, stir in the kidney beans and cannellini beans. Heat until the beans are warm, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
6. Final Adjustments
Check the seasoning and add more water if you prefer a thinner soup. Ensure everything is well combined and the beans are heated through.
7. Serving
Serve your warm Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in bowls, adding a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Pro Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
- Add Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and then transfer everything to a slow cooker for 4 hours on low for a hands-off cooking method.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli with:
- A side salad, dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
- A glass of red wine to elevate the meal experience.
Conclusion
Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home is not only achievable but also a rewarding experience. This dish combines comforting ingredients with delightful flavors, bringing the essence of Italian cuisine right to your table. Enjoy creating this wholesome soup for your family and friends!
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Pasta e Fagioli tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for later.
How can I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
What should I serve with Pasta e Fagioli?
Garlic bread or a fresh salad pairs beautifully with this hearty soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with small shells or elbow macaroni if you prefer.
Is Pasta e Fagioli gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.
This comforting bowl of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is sure to please anyone’s palate. Enjoy making this recipe a family favorite!
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Stir them into the meat and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, canned tomatoes, and water to the pot. Mix in the dried basil, oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- After the pasta is cooked, stir in the kidney beans and cannellini beans. Heat until the beans are warm, about 3-4 minutes.
- Check the seasoning and add more water if you prefer a thinner soup. Ensure everything is well combined and the beans are heated through.
- Serve your warm Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in bowls, adding a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal!
