Delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Bring the taste of Olive Garden to your home with this hearty Pasta e Fagioli recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this Italian soup is loaded with beef, beans, and pasta, making it a comforting meal for the whole family.
Cook Time:
Total Time:
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 1 minced yellow onion
- 2 cubed carrots
- 3 cubed celery ribs
- 3 finely chopped garlic cloves
- 3 8-ounce cans of tomato sauce
- 2 14.5-ounce cans of beef broth
- 1 14.5-ounce can of petite cubed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 8 ounces of dry ditalini pasta
- 1 15-ounce can of dark red kidney beans (washed and strained)
- 1 15-ounce can of cannellini beans (washed and strained)
- Shredded parmesan for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the minced garlic, cubed carrots, onions, and celery to the pot, and sauté for a few minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the water, tomato sauce, granulated sugar, beef broth, oregano, canned tomatoes, and dried basil. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add the ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the cannellini and kidney beans, simmering until everything is heated through. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
291 calories per serving.
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 68mg
Carbohydrates: 75g
Fiber: 13g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 43g
Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta e Fagioli
To ensure your Pasta e Fagioli turns out just like the delicious version served at Olive Garden, start with high-quality ingredients. Using fresh vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of your soup, giving it that authentic Italian taste. When selecting your ground beef, opt for lean cuts to reduce excess grease, which can make the soup taste heavy. Also, remember that the choice of beans plays a crucial role in the texture and flavor of the dish. Mixing different types of beans adds variety and a rich creaminess to the soup.
Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices
Italian cuisine is known for its vibrant herbs and spices, and Pasta e Fagioli is no exception. While the recipe calls for dried basil and oregano, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering process for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can also be sprinkled on top just before serving to provide a fresh contrast to the hearty soup. Don t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, since everyone s palate is different. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Making Your Pasta e Fagioli Ahead of Time
One of the best things about Pasta e Fagioli is that it can be made in advance and stored for later. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after sitting for a day. To prepare ahead of time, simply follow the recipe up to the point of cooking the pasta. Store the soup and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove and add the cooked pasta just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and allows for a perfect texture.
Storing and Freezing Your Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers or want to batch cook, storing and freezing your Pasta e Fagioli is easy. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help restore its original consistency. Enjoy the convenience of having a homemade meal ready at your fingertips!
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Pasta e Fagioli can be a meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunch. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread is also a perfect accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the hearty soup. For a special touch, a sprinkle of additional shredded parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil over the top just before serving can add that final flourish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Additionally, you can add more vegetables or even some plant-based protein to enhance the dish.
What type of pasta is best for Pasta e Fagioli?
While ditalini pasta is traditional, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold its shape well in the soup.
How can I thicken my Pasta e Fagioli?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent. This will give your dish a heartier consistency.
How long does Pasta e Fagioli last in the refrigerator?
Pasta e Fagioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.