Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

A warm bowl of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is the perfect dish for chilly days or a cozy family gathering. This hearty Italian soup combines savory ground beef, nutritious beans, and tender pasta, making it a filling meal that’s easy to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this comforting recipe stands out with its rich flavors and a blend of wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup includes protein-rich ground beef and two types of beans, ensuring that each bowl is satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the beans or add extra vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making this soup even better the next day.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking soups; it holds all the ingredients while allowing ample space for simmering.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized and safe while you chop vegetables.
• Knife: A sharp knife speeds up prep time by making it easier to dice and mince ingredients.

Ingredients

A hearty and comforting Italian soup made with pasta and beans, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients:
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Ground beef: 1/2 lb (225 g)
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Celery: 1 stalk, diced
– Carrots: 2 medium, diced
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz or 800 g)
– Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz or 425 g), drained and rinsed
– Cannellini beans: 1 can (15 oz or 425 g), drained and rinsed
– Ditalini pasta: 1 cup (about 100 g)
– Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil: for garnish (optional)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by dicing the onion, celery, and carrots. Mince the garlic as well. This step sets the foundation for the flavor profile of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrots for about 5–7 minutes until they become softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the pot. Break it up as it cooks, browning it for approximately 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in crushed tomatoes along with kidney beans and cannellini beans. Mix everything together thoroughly.

Step 6: Create the Broth

Pour in about 4 cups of water or beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil; then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Ditalini Pasta

Add ditalini pasta into the pot. Cook it for an additional 10–12 minutes until it reaches al dente texture.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

This delicious Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup.
• Baguette Slices: Lightly toasted baguette slices allow you to savor every spoonful of the soup.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice, Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the warm, comforting soup.
• Caprese Salad: The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella in Caprese salad brighten up your meal and add freshness.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory depth to each bowl of soup. Sprinkle generously on top before serving.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can create a lovely creamy texture when added just before serving.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe ensures every bowl is as delicious as possible. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for more vibrant flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Customize Beans: Experiment with different beans like black beans or chickpeas for variation in flavor and texture.
• Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Season Well: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can help intensify the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Complementing your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli with the right side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic adds a burst of flavor that pairs well with the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances nutritional value and provides a colorful plate.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, and spices, stuffed peppers offer a hearty addition that matches well with the soup’s flavors.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an appealing variety alongside your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while balancing out the heaviness of the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor next to this savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not preparing vegetables properly: Chopping vegetables too large can result in uneven cooking. Always dice them into uniform pieces for even texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Underseasoning can leave your soup bland. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Cook it just until al dente for the best texture in your soup.
• Using low-quality canned beans: Poor-quality beans may compromise flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality canned beans or cook your own from scratch.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing through the simmering phase can prevent flavors from developing. Allowing the soup to simmer enhances its taste, so be patient!
• Neglecting garnish: Serving without a fresh herb garnish can make the dish look unappealing. A sprinkle of parsley or basil adds visual appeal and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and ground beef, offering comfort and warmth.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time for making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out beans or add extra veggies based on your preference while keeping with the overall flavor profile.

Is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe stands out as a comforting and delicious Italian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for various ingredient swaps based on your taste preferences. Dive into this delightful recipe today and enjoy a bowl of warmth!