Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Pasta e Fagioli, which means “pasta and beans” in Italian, is a classic rustic soup that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This Olive Garden copycat recipe captures the rich, savory flavors of the restaurant version but is made easily at home with wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with lean ground beef, beans, vegetables, pasta, and a seasoned tomato broth.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch to prep ahead, this Pasta e Fagioli delivers both flavor and function in one pot. It’s a budget-friendly dish that stretches well, reheats beautifully, and satisfies the whole family.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in flavor with minimal prep time
• One-pot recipe for easy cleanup
• Tastes just like the restaurant version
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Easily adaptable for dietary needs
• Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients

Recipe Appeal and Uses

This soup is perfect for:

• Cozy dinners during cold weather
• Weekly meal prep
• Family-style meals
• Pairing with salads or bread for a complete course

Its rich tomato broth, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation make it a versatile favorite. Plus, it’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even heat distribution and holding all the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps stir ingredients without scratching the pot.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: Needed for prepping vegetables.
• Can opener: For the canned tomatoes and beans.
• Ladle: For easy serving.

Importance of Each Tool

Every tool helps streamline the cooking process. A Dutch oven ensures consistent simmering, while the wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware. Prepping ingredients with sharp tools keeps cooking efficient and safe.

Preparation Tips

• Dice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• Sauté vegetables well to release their natural sweetness and enhance the base flavor.
• Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the broth.
• Rinse canned beans to remove excess salt and starch.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially depending on your broth’s salt content.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

Broth and Tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 carton (32 oz) chicken broth

Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasoning and Garnish

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces until browned.
3. Remove the cooked beef from the pot and drain excess fat. Set it aside.
4. In the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
5. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
6. Add the Great Northern beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the ditalini pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Optional Variations

• Replace ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions for Pasta e Fagioli

This Pasta e Fagioli Olive Garden copycat is hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal, but you can elevate your presentation and experience with thoughtful sides and toppings. Its rich tomato and broth base pairs well with simple yet flavorful additions.

Here are some recommended ways to serve this soup:

• Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, umami-rich finish.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving for color and a burst of freshness.
• Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping into the savory broth.
• Offer a side of chili flakes or cracked black pepper for guests who like a little heat.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of pesto or a swirl of olive oil.
• Present in wide soup bowls to cool and thicken slightly before eating, which enhances the flavor experience.

Serving this soup family-style in a Dutch oven or large soup tureen can make it the centerpiece of any cozy dinner spread.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like Pasta e Fagioli can go wrong if a few steps are overlooked. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the Pasta

When pasta is simmered too long in hot broth, it can become mushy and lose its texture. The solution is to:

• Cook pasta only until al dente
• Serve immediately after the pasta finishes cooking
• Store leftovers with pasta and soup separated if preparing ahead

Not Sautéing Vegetables Properly

Raw or undercooked vegetables can affect the overall taste and texture of the soup. Always sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until slightly softened and aromatic. This step builds a flavor foundation that carries through the entire soup.

Skipping the Seasoning Adjustment

Not all canned broths and beans are equal in salt content. Always:

• Taste the soup before the final simmer
• Adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the dish
• Consider using low-sodium broth and adding salt manually for better control

Using Unrinsed Beans

Canned beans often come with excess sodium and a starchy liquid that can alter the soup’s texture. Always drain and rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot.

Reheating Without Liquid

When stored, pasta absorbs the broth, and the soup thickens. Add a bit of water or broth before reheating to loosen the consistency and bring the soup back to its original texture.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing your Pasta e Fagioli with the right side dish can turn it into a satisfying multi-course meal. Here are eight delicious sides to consider:

1. Garlic Breadsticks

Inspired by Olive Garden’s iconic sides, garlic breadsticks are a perfect match. Buttery, warm, and slightly crisp, they soak up the soup’s tomato broth beautifully.

2. Caesar Salad

The tangy, creamy dressing of a Caesar salad contrasts well with the warm and savory notes of this soup. Add fresh croutons and shaved Parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, offering a delicious and nutritious side that complements the richness of the soup.

4. Italian Chopped Salad

Packed with olives, tomatoes, red onion, salami, and pepperoncini, this salad brings bold flavors that mirror and enhance the Italian profile of the main dish.

5. Caprese Skewers

Simple yet elegant, these skewers combine fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing side.

6. Balsamic Roasted Vegetables

Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Roasting them with balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy depth that pairs well with the soup.

7. Mozzarella-Stuffed Garlic Rolls

Warm, cheesy rolls filled with gooey mozzarella create a savory, indulgent partner to the soup, perfect for special dinners or gatherings.

8. Classic Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil offers a bright, zesty contrast to the hearty, tomato-based broth of Pasta e Fagioli.

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By pairing your Olive Garden copycat Pasta e Fagioli with one or more of these side dishes and avoiding common preparation errors, you can create a well-rounded, satisfying Italian-style meal right at home. Whether you serve it as a starter, a main course, or part of a multi-dish spread, this soup is sure to please every time.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Pasta e Fagioli

This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli copycat recipe is simple to make, but there are a few helpful tips to elevate the final result. Use these techniques to ensure your soup turns out flavorful and consistent every time.

Use High-Quality Broth

The broth is the base of the entire soup, so using a rich, flavorful stock will enhance every bite. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the seasoning level. For a vegetarian version, substitute with a hearty vegetable broth.

Brown the Meat Thoroughly

Take time to brown the ground beef well. This step creates a rich, umami-packed base that complements the tomato sauce and adds depth to the broth.

Add Fresh Herbs at the End

While dried Italian seasoning adds a classic profile during cooking, finishing the soup with fresh basil or parsley brightens the flavor and adds a layer of freshness that mimics restaurant-quality soup.

Cook Pasta Separately for Leftovers

If you’re preparing this soup in advance, consider cooking the ditalini pasta separately. When added directly to the soup and stored, the pasta tends to absorb most of the liquid and may become too soft. Keep it on the side and mix it in just before serving for the best texture.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

This Pasta e Fagioli recipe stores exceptionally well and is perfect for meal prepping.

Storing in the Refrigerator

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Store pasta separately if possible to avoid over-softening.

Freezing Instructions

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze without the pasta for best texture. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating Tips

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add water or broth to loosen the consistency if the soup has thickened in the fridge.
• Microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Pasta e Fagioli and minestrone?

While both are Italian soups, Pasta e Fagioli is more focused on beans and pasta, with fewer vegetables than minestrone. Minestrone also often includes zucchini, green beans, and potatoes, whereas Pasta e Fagioli features a thicker, bean-rich broth.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes. While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with elbow macaroni, small shells, or any small pasta shape. Just be mindful of cooking times and texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this version is not spicy by default. However, you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You may also add extra vegetables or mushrooms for more substance.

Can I use canned tomatoes with basil or garlic?

Yes, flavored canned tomatoes can enhance the overall taste. If using pre-seasoned tomatoes, adjust your Italian seasoning accordingly to avoid overpowering the soup.

How do I thicken or thin the soup?

To thicken, let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. To thin, add extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli Olive Garden copycat recipe offers everything you love about the classic restaurant dish with the convenience of homemade cooking. It is rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special family meals.

Made in one pot with everyday ingredients, it’s a reliable recipe to keep in your rotation. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the stove or reheating it the next day, the flavors only improve over time. You can tailor it to your preferences by adjusting the protein, seasoning, or side dishes to suit any dietary needs.

For those looking to recreate the restaurant experience at home, this recipe captures the comfort and authenticity of Pasta e Fagioli with ease. Add it to your regular meal prep plan or pull it out when you need a reliable, satisfying soup that everyone will love.