As the warmth of the sun starts fading and leaves begin to turn, there’s something magical about a pot of soup simmering on the stove. I recall my first encounter with Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli soup.
It was a chilly night, and there I was, cozy in a booth, spooning the rich broth that just seemed to warm my very soul. I knew at that moment I needed to recreate it at home—make it my own.
Now, let’s dive deep into the delightful world of this copycat recipe. It’s packed with flavors, warm, comforting, and brings a bit of that restaurant magic right into your kitchen. Ready? Let’s get stirring!
What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Copycat?
At its core, Pasta e Fagioli is an Italian bean soup that combines pasta, beans, vegetables, and meat in a savory broth. Olive Garden’s version has become iconic—rightly so! It strikes a balance between hearty and healthy, making it a go-to comfort food.
This copycat version aims to mimic that famous dish. It speaks to both tradition and taste, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant favorite without stepping out your front door. Plus, when you make it yourself, you have the freedom to adjust the ingredients, making it truly your own.
Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Copycat
Let me tell you—it’s not just about the flavors. This soup delivers big on nostalgia. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:
- Complex Flavors: Each spoonful bursts with rich taste—from the savory depth of the smoked paprika to the fresh notes of the herbs.
- Versatility: Add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Don’t like beans? Skip them. Love extra veggies? Toss them in!
- Easy to Make: A few simple steps and you have a wholesome meal ready for the whole family.
- Healthy Comfort: This is not just a bowl of indulgence. It’s filled with vegetables, lean protein, and fiber.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Whether it’s meal prep or a cozy gathering, this soup shines both fresh and from the freezer.
The Ingredients
Before we jump into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 cans tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (14 ½ oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water, plus more if needed for desired consistency
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor
- 1 can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or substitute with elbow macaroni)
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Finely shredded Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- 3 Tbsp freshly minced parsley
Note:
When you use high-quality ingredients, the outcome shines through. Whenever possible, opt for fresh veggies and good-quality meat.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat, until browned. This should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
With the meat cooked, it’s time to add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn translucent. Remember to stir frequently! Then, add in the garlic and sauté for another minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes
Now, it’s time for the tomatoes. Pour in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together lovingly.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Here comes the fun part! Add the granulated sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Let it simmer away like a warm hug for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Beans and Pasta
Once that aromatic goodness fills your kitchen, add in the kidney beans, great northern beans, and pasta. Stir to combine and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. The pasta should be al dente, and the soup should thicken nicely.
Step 6: Final Touches
When the pasta is cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Don’t forget to sprinkle in fresh parsley before serving!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some pointers to help you nail this recipe:
- Watch Your Pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy. If you plan to store leftovers, you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it when serving.
- Golden Ratio: Feel free to adjust the ratio of beans and meat according to your preference. More beans yield a more robust flavor.
- Storage: Always cool the soup before storing. This helps maintain the consistency.
- Season As You Go: Don’t be shy with seasoning. Layer flavors by adding some herbs at different cooking stages.
- Quick Fix: Running low on time? Use pre-chopped veggies from the store to save some prep time.
Can I Store Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Copycat?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks thickened.
What Can I Serve with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Copycat?
Pair your soup with delightful sides to create a full meal:
- Crusty Italian Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm bread into a bowl of soup.
- Caesar Salad: A light, crunchy salad complements the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Knots: Embrace the Italian theme with some soft, garlic-infused knots.
- Parmesan Crisps: A crunchy snack that adds a fun texture contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers: For a more filling meal, serve stuffed peppers on the side.
Variations
Here are some fun twists you can try out. Don’t hesitate to mix and match!
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty veggie alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to heat things up.
- Creamy Twist: Stir a little heavy cream or cream cheese just before serving for a richer texture.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar while it finishes cooking for an extra melty bite.
- Herbaceous: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup copycat is not just a recipe; it’s a gastronomic journey that invites you to recreate a beloved classic in your kitchen.
It’s all about comfort, flavor, and a good dose of nostalgia wrapped in a bowl. Whether you enjoy it solo or paired with friends and family, every spoonful tells a story of warmth and happiness.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking playlist, and let’s make some magic happen. You’ve got this! Enjoy the journey and the spoons of hearty goodness that await. Buon Appetito!
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Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup Copycat Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Description
As the warmth of the sun starts fading and leaves begin to turn, there’s something magical about a pot of soup simmering on the stove. I recall my first encounter with Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli soup.
It was a chilly night, and there I was, cozy in a booth, spooning the rich broth that just seemed to warm my very soul. I knew at that moment I needed to recreate it at home—make it my own.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
-
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat, until browned. This should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
-
With the meat cooked, it’s time to add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn translucent. Remember to stir frequently! Then, add in the garlic and sauté for another minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes
-
Now, it’s time for the tomatoes. Pour in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together lovingly.
Step 4: Spice It Up
-
Here comes the fun part! Add the granulated sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, marjoram, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Let it simmer away like a warm hug for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Beans and Pasta
-
Once that aromatic goodness fills your kitchen, add in the kidney beans, great northern beans, and pasta. Stir to combine and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes. The pasta should be al dente, and the soup should thicken nicely.
Step 6: Final Touches
-
When the pasta is cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Don’t forget to sprinkle in fresh parsley before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 540kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.1g30%
- Saturated Fat 5.5g28%
- Trans Fat 0.6g
- Cholesterol 77mg26%
- Sodium 367mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 62g21%
- Dietary Fiber 14g57%
- Sugars 24g
- Protein 37g74%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Watch Your Pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy. If you plan to store leftovers, you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it when serving.
- Golden Ratio: Feel free to adjust the ratio of beans and meat according to your preference. More beans yield a more robust flavor.
- Storage: Always cool the soup before storing. This helps maintain the consistency.
- Season As You Go: Don't be shy with seasoning. Layer flavors by adding some herbs at different cooking stages.
- Quick Fix: Running low on time? Use pre-chopped veggies from the store to save some prep time.
