Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Get the taste of Olive Garden’s famous Pasta e Fagioli soup at home with this delicious and easy-to-follow copycat recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy nights in or served as a satisfying meal any day of the week. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a standout choice among soups, bringing warmth and heartiness to your dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: With a combination of savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables, each spoonful bursts with flavor that rivals restaurant versions.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or serve alongside a salad and bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with beans and pasta, this soup is satisfying enough to keep you full while still being light.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.

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Ingredients

To create this delectable Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup Ditalini pasta
• 15 oz red kidney beans (rinsed/drained)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (drained/rinsed)

Vegetables

• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (chopped)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)

Sauces and Seasonings

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried Basil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt/pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup water

Meat Substitute

• 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add the Ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a Dutch Oven or large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned and crumbly. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in minced garlic, diced onion, chopped carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt/pepper, Italian seasoning, cooked sausage, and 1 cup of water into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes so all flavors can meld together.

Step 6: Add Beans and Pasta

Stir in both types of beans along with the cooked Ditalini pasta. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Serving your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with thoughtful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted bread pairs wonderfully with the soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.

Add a Side Salad

• A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty soup and adds freshness to your meal.

Top with Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and richness that enhances the overall taste.

Serve with Garlic Breadsticks

• Soft, warm garlic breadsticks offer a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor that make for a perfect pairing.

Include a Glass of Sparkling Water

• A refreshing glass of sparkling water can cleanse your palate between bites and keep you feeling refreshed.

Finish with a Dessert

• Consider serving a light dessert, like sorbet or fruit salad, to round out your meal on a sweet note.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

To create the best version of this comforting soup, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for the perfect balance.

• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving for optimal texture.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. If time permits, let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes.

• Use Leftovers Wisely: This soup stores well in the fridge. Enjoy it as leftovers or freeze portions for a quick meal later.

• Experiment with Beans: Try different beans like black beans or chickpeas for unique flavors and textures while keeping it hearty.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Complement your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that balances richness.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and color to your meal while complementing the soup’s warmth.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil offer a crunchy contrast that’s bursting with flavor.

5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, roasted peppers, and marinated artichokes provides variety and enhances Italian themes.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a hearty option that pairs nicely with the soup.

7. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a classic touch that works well alongside the robust flavors of the soup.

8. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese can be served as an indulgent side that adds comfort to your cozy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it soggy. Always follow the package instructions and check for al dente texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning properly can lead to bland soup. Taste your soup as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs accordingly.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality broth or canned ingredients can diminish flavor. Choose good-quality chicken broth and tomatoes for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step means flavors won’t meld. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes for a richer taste.
• Adding beans too early: If you add the beans at the beginning, they may become mushy. Stir them in towards the end of cooking for better texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite beans like black beans or pinto beans.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply replace meat with extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers is a great way to customize your soup.

How spicy is this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only delicious but also very versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give this cozy recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Italian-inspired goodness at home!