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. Loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty beans simmered in a rich broth, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. 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 to Prepare: This dish can be on your table in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and fiber from beans, it’s both satisfying and healthy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or beans based on what you have at home.
• Hearty Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering soups without burning.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

For the Meat & Vegetables

• 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 Beans & Broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can red kidney beans (14 oz, drained)
• 1 can cannellini beans (14 oz, drained)
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Pasta & Seasoning

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break apart any clumps.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 8–10 minutes until they are 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 everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Add uncooked ditalini pasta to the pot. Simmer until tender—approximately 15–20 minutes—stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Before serving, season your soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a staple in your household! Enjoy every warm bowlful filled with goodness.

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and creating a comforting meal. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that complement its rich taste.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. It adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the overall experience.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the soup perfectly.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• For those who enjoy cheese, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before serving. It brings an extra depth of flavor and creaminess.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes it feel special and perfect for gatherings. Guests can customize their own toppings as desired.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is easy with a few helpful tips that enhance texture and flavor. Follow these suggestions for your best batch yet!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide vibrant flavors and textures that dried or canned counterparts simply cannot match.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the spice according to your preference by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes for heat.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent mushiness, cook ditalini pasta in a separate pot and add it to individual servings.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Broth: For added depth, try using homemade chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of store-bought options.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover broth.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are an indulgent treat that complements the heartiness of the soup.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms are bite-sized delights that pair well with Italian dishes like this one.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic comfort food choice that offers gooey goodness when dipped into the soup.
8. Focaccia Bread: This flavorful Italian bread is great for sopping up every last drop of your delicious pasta e fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not sautéing your vegetables properly can lead to a bland soup. Always take the time to sauté until they are tender and fragrant.
• Using Overcooked Pasta: If you add the pasta too soon, it may become mushy. Cook the pasta separately if you plan on leftovers to maintain its texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Seasoning at the end can leave your dish flat. Taste your soup throughout and adjust seasoning as you go for more depth of flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs can elevate your dish. If available, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can hinder even cooking. Add ingredients in stages, allowing each one to cook properly before adding the next.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

How can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans or lentils for protein.

Can I use different types of beans in my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to switch out the kidney beans or cannellini beans with other varieties like black beans or chickpeas based on your preference.

Is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply replace ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta option available at most grocery stores.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli last?

When stored properly, this soup will last up to 3–4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of this hearty soup!