Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

This hearty and comforting Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this classic soup offers warmth and satisfaction. Its rich blend of lean ground beef, tender vegetables, beans, and pasta in a seasoned tomato broth makes it a standout choice for meal prep, ensuring even better flavors the next day.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For Beans and Pasta
• For Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Add Beans and Broth
• Step 6: Cook Pasta
• Step 7: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Cheese
• Accompanied by Salad
• How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Pasta e Fagioli?
• Can I use different types of beans in Pasta e Fagioli?
• How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?
• Is Pasta e Fagioli healthy?
• Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This one-pot recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Incredibly Flavorful: With Italian seasoning and fresh ingredients, every bite bursts with taste.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for lunch or dinner, it can be paired with bread or served as a standalone dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes preparing your Pasta e Fagioli much easier. Gather these essentials before you begin cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without spillage.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth

For Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

PIN THIS!

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes, breaking it apart into small pieces as it browns.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat

Remove the cooked beef from the pot and drain excess fat. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Add Beans and Broth

Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve hot garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pasta e Fagioli is a warm and hearty soup that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or alongside other favorites, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – A classic companion, garlic bread adds flavor and texture.
• Baguette Slices – Serve toasted baguette slices for a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for a rich, savory finish.
• Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella adds creaminess and a delightful stringy texture.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and creamy dressing pair well with the soup’s heartiness.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad balances the richness of Pasta e Fagioli.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

To elevate your Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• Simmer Longer – Letting the ingredients simmer longer develops deeper flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – For better texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Add Spinach or Kale – Stir in fresh greens for added nutrition and color.

PIN THIS!

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

A variety of side dishes can complement your Pasta e Fagioli perfectly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic are perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers offer a refreshing bite.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs provide a delicious appetizer.
4. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses makes for an appealing starter.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil is a flavorful addition.
6. Italian Sausage Links – Grilled sausage adds heartiness that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat), it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long can make it mushy. Add the pasta towards the end of the cooking time for a perfect texture.
• Not draining beans: Failing to drain and rinse canned beans can introduce excess sodium. Always rinse them before adding to your dish.
• Using low-quality beef: Choosing low-grade ground beef can affect the flavor. Opt for lean ground beef for a better taste in your soup.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like basil can reduce freshness. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added punch of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans. This version mimics the popular Olive Garden recipe, bringing hearty flavors to your kitchen.

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

Yes! While Great Northern and kidney beans are common, feel free to use any beans you prefer or have on hand.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, swap out different types of pasta, or even add Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Is Pasta e Fagioli healthy?

This dish is relatively healthy as it includes lean protein, fiber from beans, and plenty of vegetables. Just be mindful of portion sizes!

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it can easily become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for an even more personalized touch!

---