Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the warmth of Italian-American cuisine straight to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. With a medley of vegetables, beans, and savory spices, it’s a dish that appeals to everyone. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, herbs, and seasonings creates a depth of flavor that is comforting and delicious.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup provides essential nutrients while being low in fat.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve as an appetizer; it fits perfectly in any meal plan.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful soup without fuss.
• Great for Leftovers: Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day, ideal for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare this hearty soup.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution ensuring your ingredients cook uniformly.
• Chopping board & Sharp knife: Makes prepping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements for balanced flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

This Olive Garden pasta e fagioli recipe is filled with wholesome ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 (14 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 (14 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14 fluid ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 (14 fluid ounce) can cannellini beans or great northern beans (drained)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon red grape juice vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional or add more to taste)
• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Add the lean ground beef to a soup pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat until just browned, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, red grape juice vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer covered with the lid slightly open for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add the uncooked ditalini pasta into the pot. Continue to simmer until it’s tender—a further cooking time of about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences before serving. Enjoy this hearty Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli warm!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting and hearty nature. This soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Add a generous amount of grated Parmesan for a rich, cheesy flavor.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread – Serve warm crusty bread alongside to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully and adds extra savoriness.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides a nice crunch and balances out the soup’s warmth.
• Mixed Greens Salad – Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can brighten your meal.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To achieve the best results with your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavor Boost – Use homemade chicken broth if possible; it enhances the soup’s richness compared to store-bought.
• Perfect Consistency – If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the beans before adding them back into the pot.
• Herb Freshness – Use fresh herbs whenever available for more vibrant flavor compared to dried ones.
• Pasta Cooking Tip – Cook pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers; this prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated.
• Spice It Up – Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference; feel free to add more for an extra kick.
• Refrigeration Time – Letting the soup sit overnight in the refrigerator allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Consider these tasty options:

1. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a refreshing start.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light complement.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies create a hearty addition.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and flavor alongside the soup.
5. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an exciting appetizer spread.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots – Warm knots brushed with garlic butter and cheese are irresistible alongside soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Make sure to cook the beef until it’s browned. This adds depth of flavor to your soup.
• Skipping the Vegetables: Vegetables are crucial for flavor. Always include onion, celery, and carrots for the best results.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Be cautious with cooking time; overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Aim for al dente for a better texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste before serving! Adding salt and pepper at the end ensures balanced flavors.
• Using Cold Broth: Always use warm or hot chicken broth to speed up cooking and maintain temperature.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover; heat for about 30 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta simmered in a flavorful broth.

How can I customize my Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also swap out beans or adjust herbs according to your taste.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra beans or lentils for protein.

How do I store left-over Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli spicy?

The soup has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, which you can adjust according to your preference by adding more or omitting them altogether.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli recipe serves as a delicious comfort food option that is both satisfying and easy to customize. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different types of beans, this versatile soup is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy its rich flavors!

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