On chilly evenings, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warm bowl of pasta e fagioli to wrap you in comfort. This Quick and Easy Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup captures those rich, savory flavors in just 30 minutes-a lifesaver when time is tight! While perfectly hearty on its own, each spoonful harmonizes tender pasta, creamy beans, and vibrant vegetables, making it a delightful meal for family and friends alike. Whether you're seeking a satisfying meal prep option or a freezer-friendly recipe for those busy nights, this soup is versatile enough to adapt to your cravings. Let's dive in and create a cozy dish that might just become your new weeknight favorite!
Why Is Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli a Must-Try?
Hearty Comfort: This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli delivers a bowl full of warmth that's perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for busy weeks, this soup can be made ahead and easily reheated for those packed evenings.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite beans or pasta shapes, ensuring everyone's tastes are catered to!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or family dinners-everyone will adore the rich flavors and textures!
Embrace the ease of cooking with this delicious soup that might just transform your weeknight dinners into a delightful experience.
Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!
For the Soup
- Lean Ground Beef - Adds protein and richness; can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Yellow Onion - Provides foundational flavor; consider using shallots for a milder taste.
- Carrots - Adds natural sweetness and color; baby carrots can be used, just dice finely.
- Celery Stalks - Contributes crunch and flavor depth; can be omitted if disliked.
- Garlic - Enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic is recommended-use garlic powder if unavailable.
- Tomato Sauce (3 x 8 oz cans) - Base liquid that provides acidity and sweetness; substitute with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- Beef Broth (2 x 14.5 oz cans) - Adds depth; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- Water (½ cup) - Adjusts thickness; replace with more broth for richer flavor.
- Petite Diced Tomatoes (1 x 14.5 oz can) - Adds texture and flavor; use fresh tomatoes in season for a fresher taste.
- Granulated Sugar (2 teaspoons) - Balances acidity in the sauce; honey or maple syrup can be alternatives.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) & Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) - Provide herbaceous notes; Italian seasoning can be an easy substitute.
- Dry Ditalini Pasta (8 ounces) - Main starch element; feel free to swap with small macaroni or shells.
- Dark Red Kidney Beans (1 x 15 oz can) & Cannellini Beans (1 x 15 oz can) - Offer heartiness and additional protein; both can be swapped for any preferred beans.
- Parmesan Cheese & Fresh Parsley - For garnish; nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free version.
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until almost cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery into the pot. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions become translucent.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. This will enhance the overall aroma and flavor of your soup.
Combine Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, water, and petite diced tomatoes. Then, add the sugar, dried basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the dry ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, which is roughly 10 minutes. This ensures the pasta retains a delightful bite.
Mix in the Beans: Gently fold in the drained kidney beans and cannellini beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, adjust it by adding a bit more water.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Optional: A dash of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat for those who like it spicy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
- Perfect Timing: Ensure you don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before mixing in the beans. This keeps your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Flavor Boost: Consider sautéing pancetta or bacon with the ground beef for an added depth of flavor. A little extra fat enhances richness!
- Texture Control: For a heartier soup, feel free to mash some beans against the pot's side before adding them, creating a creamier consistency without extra calories.
- Freezing Tips: If planning to freeze, store the soup without the pasta. Add the cooked pasta when reheating to preserve texture and avoid mushiness.
- Creative Cuts: Enhance the visual appeal by chopping the veggies into slightly different sizes or shapes-your family will love it!
What to Serve with Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?
On a comforting night, pair this delicious soup with sides that balance its hearty flavors and textures.
- Warm French Bread: Perfect for dipping, this crusty bread complements the rich soup and enhances every mouthful.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad brings a bright contrast to the savory soup, making your meal feel light and satisfying.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, breadsticks add a delightful twist, inviting you to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Roasted Veggies: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds a colorful, nutritious touch while providing a delicious sweet-savory balance.
- Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites are an elegant addition, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the comforting soup.
- Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio elevates the meal, enhancing its rich, savory notes while making it feel special.
Each of these accompaniments will create an inviting and memorable dining experience that couples beautifully with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup!
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli fresh and ready to enjoy later.
Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to achieve desired consistency.
Pasta Tip: For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta. Cook and add the pasta during reheating to maintain its perfect al dente texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick and Easy Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can chop your vegetables and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The soup itself can be gradually reheated everyday for up to 3 days after cooking, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. When ready to serve, simply add the cooked pasta and beans to the pot, heat it through, and season to taste. This not only saves you valuable time during the week but ensures a hearty, comforting meal is just moments away!
Variations & Substitutions for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Transform this cozy soup to suit your tastes or dietary needs with a few simple swaps!
Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option that still packs protein.
Plant-Based Delight: Substitute ground beef with lentils for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version rich in fiber and nutrients.
Pasta Choice: Go for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to cater to different dietary preferences while maintaining great flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine while simmering for extra depth and richness in the soup’s flavor profile.
Bean Variety: Mix up the beans with chickpeas or black beans for unique textures and flavors that keep it interesting.
Spice Level: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat that can elevate your dish beautifully.
Extra Veggies: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for a pop of color and a nutrient boost without overpowering the flavors.
Cheesy Twist: Swap Parmesan cheese for a vegan option like nutritional yeast to keep it dairy-free while still giving that cheesy essence!
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Recipe FAQs
What's the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables for your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. Choose onions that are heavy for their size and free from dark spots. Carrots should be crisp, without any softness or blemishes. For tomatoes, opt for those that are slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy, indicating ripeness!
How should I store leftovers of this soup?
Very! To store your delicious soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Ensure you label the containers with dates for easy reference. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave-just be sure to stir well to ensure even heating!
**Can I freeze **Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli? How?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low on the stovetop. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to maintain its texture.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you'd like, simply add in warm water or broth a little at a time while stirring until you reach your preferred consistency. This allows you to control the thickness without affecting the flavor-it’s a great way to adapt to personal tastes!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests, consider allergies-such as those to gluten or beans. You can easily make this soup gluten-free by swapping the pasta for a gluten-free variety. For dairy sensitivities, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. Always feel free to adjust the ingredients based on dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a comforting bowl!
Perfectly Cozy: Easy Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until almost cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery into the pot. Sauté for about 6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, water, and petite diced tomatoes. Add the sugar, dried basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the dry ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Gently fold in the drained kidney and cannellini beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
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