Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, offering a hearty blend of beans, vegetables, and spices. With its quick preparation time in the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the long wait. It’s not just flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this delicious soup in just 25 minutes.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich beans and fresh vegetables, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: A comforting choice that appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this amazing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results while simplifying the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spatula
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker makes it easy to prepare meals quickly while locking in flavors and nutrients.
• Wooden spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures you add just the right amounts of ingredients for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

To make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot, gather these ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian Ground beef Sausage (Use mild or spicy. You can use 1:1 ground beef : Sausage. 16 oz/454 g.)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)
• 15 oz Kidney Beans (Drained & rinsed. 439 g / 1 can.)
• 14 oz Diced Tomatoes (with juices. I used diced tomatoes with basil, oregano & garlic. 1 can / 411 g.)
• 8 oz tomato sauce (226 g / 1 can.)
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (diluted in about 4 tbsp water.)

Vegetables

• 1 cup onion (roughly chopped. Use yellow or white onion.)
• 1.5 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup carrot (roughly cubed)
• 3/4 cup celery (roughly chopped. About 2 sticks.)

Pasta and Seasonings

• 1 cup Ditalini Pasta (you can use small elbow or shell pasta; use 3/4 cups in that case.)
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/4 tsp oregano (dried from the bottle.)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (dried from the bottle.)
• 1.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (skip if heat intolerant; use 1.5 tsp if you love spicy food.)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Broth and Garnishes

• 6 cups chicken stock (Use 7-7.5 cups for thinner soup; I used 4 Better Than Bouillon cubes diluted in hot water.)
• Parsley (fresh flat leaf parsley chopped, use handful.)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (drizzle over soup)
• Parmesan Cheese (grated; optional)

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Set the Instant Pot on SAUTE & set it on HIGH heat. Add olive oil. When hot, gently add the ground meat and sauté until nicely browned, stirring frequently with a spatula.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once browned, add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables

Add carrots and celery; stir well and sauté for another minute until slightly softened.

Step 4: Pour in Stock

Pour in chicken stock while de-glazing the pot by scraping any stuck bits off with a spatula to prevent BURN errors.

Step 5: Season It Up

Next, add all seasonings including paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir everything together well.

Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add diced tomatoes (including juices), rinsed beans, tomato sauce, tomato paste mixture, and pasta into the pot. Mix thoroughly.

Step 7: Pressure Cook

CANCEL SAUTE function. Close lid of Instant Pot, seal valve, and PRESSURE COOK on HIGH for just 4 minutes.

Step 8: Quick Release

When cooking cycle ends, perform a quick pressure release by moving valve from SEALING to VENTING position carefully open lid after steam has released.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

The wholesome Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli is ready! Serve promptly as pasta may become mushy if left too long in soup.

Step 10: Garnish

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, crushed black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving! Enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Serving Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is simple yet delightful. This hearty soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A loaf of fresh baguette or ciabatta bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Toast it lightly for extra crunch.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s warmth. The crispness of the salad balances the meal beautifully.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the aroma, making every bite more inviting.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• While optional, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top can add creaminess and depth to the flavors. Consider using an alternative cheese for a unique twist.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of lemon just before eating can brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory soup.

Enjoy with Garlic Breadsticks

• Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks are a classic pairing. They are perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

To ensure your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned or processed options.

• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings based on your preference. A pinch more Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can make a big difference.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking pasta in soup can lead to mushiness. Aim for al dente pasta by adjusting cook time as needed.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together even more, offering a richer taste experience.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

Adding side dishes to your meal can elevate the dining experience when enjoying Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent companion, perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds brightness and freshness to your meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy, colorful side that pairs well with the hearty soup.

5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting option that complements the soup’s flavors nicely.

6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm dip served with tortilla chips or pita bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside soup dishes.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer another filling option that goes well with pasta fagioli.

8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia seasoned with herbs is another delicious option, providing an aromatic touch that enhances the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the sauté step: Skipping the sautéing of meat and vegetables can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown the meat and soften the veggies for a rich base.

• Using unseasoned stock: A bland broth will result in tasteless soup. Opt for well-seasoned chicken stock or add extra herbs and spices for depth.

• Overcooking the pasta: Letting pasta sit too long in the soup can make it mushy. Serve immediately after pressure cooking for the best texture.

• Not deglazing properly: If you don’t scrape the pot after browning, you risk burning food residues. This step is crucial to avoid triggering the BURN error on your Instant Pot.

• Skipping rinsing canned beans: Rinsing beans removes excess sodium and improves flavor. Always drain and rinse them before adding to your recipe.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or spices can dull the dish’s presentation and flavor. Garnish with parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for added taste and beauty.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot?

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is a hearty Italian soup made with beans, ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, prepared quickly using an Instant Pot.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like black or pinto beans based on your preference while keeping the overall flavor profile intact.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and ensure all broth and seasonings are plant-based.

How long does it take to cook?

The total time for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is about 25 minutes, including prep and cooking time in the Instant Pot.

Can I customize the spices used?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Adding more herbs or different chili powders can give it a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Garden Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Instant Pot is not just quick but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your tastes. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s sure to warm your heart!