Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Even better than Olive Garden’s infamous recipe, this Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is an Italian-inspired soup loaded with hearty beef, plenty of veggies, beans, and orzo. Comforting and delicious, it’s perfect for easy meal prep and cold winter nights! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick lunch option, this dish never disappoints with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bowl is packed with savory beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs that create a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time—this soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!
• Nutritious Option: Loaded with beans and veggies, this soup provides protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready makes the cooking process more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This allows you to cook all the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and precise, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 whole carrots (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Broth

• 6-8 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 whole bay leaves

For the Tomato Base

• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

For the Pasta

• 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta

How to Make Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned while breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the broth, tomato sauce, drained beans, seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, basil), bay leaves, and crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4: Cook Orzo Pasta

Add uncooked orzo pasta into the pot. Cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until pasta reaches al dente texture.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta separately from the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Pasta E Fagioli that’s not only comforting but also bursting with flavor!

How to Serve Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Serving your Pasta E Fagioli can elevate the dining experience. There are various ways to enjoy this hearty soup, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of flavor and color to your soup. Simply sprinkle chopped herbs on top just before serving.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve your Pasta E Fagioli alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread. This combination is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad complements the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for balance.

Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving for added creaminess and flavor. It enhances the overall taste profile beautifully.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• For a more formal presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portion without fuss.

Offer Additional Toppings

• Provide options like crushed red pepper flakes or extra herbs on the side for guests to customize their bowls according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Perfecting your Pasta E Fagioli is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to make this dish truly shine.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth for depth of flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Make sure to cook your onions, carrots, and celery until they are tender before adding other ingredients.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking; every ingredient impacts the overall flavor.
• Cook Orzo Al Dente: Ensure that you cook the orzo just right—al dente will give it a nice texture even after sitting in the soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit briefly after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Separately: Keep pasta and soup separate when storing leftovers to prevent sogginess when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Complementing your Pasta E Fagioli with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a list of perfect pairings:

1. Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery with hints of garlic, this bread is perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the soup.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil on skewers create an easy-to-eat appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbed cream cheese make an irresistible bite-sized treat.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and flavor.
7. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad brings additional protein and fiber while being refreshing.
8. Cheesy Flatbread: Soft flatbread topped with melted cheese is ideal for scooping up every last bit of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) to the next level.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality vegetables and lean beef. They significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs during cooking to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Add orzo last to avoid mushiness. Cook until just al dente for the best texture.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Letting the soup simmer helps the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 25 minutes for optimal results.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes like parsley and Parmesan add freshness and depth. Don’t skip this step for a complete dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe).

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and a hearty broth, often featuring vegetables and seasonings.

How can I customize my Pasta E Fagioli?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale, switch up the beans used, or even try adding different herbs for a unique twist.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or omit it altogether for a delicious vegetarian option.

How should I store leftover Pasta E Fagioli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Any small pasta like ditalini or even gluten-free pasta will work well in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is not only comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies and beans or even adjust spices according to your taste. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!