Introduction to Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli. This hearty Italian soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its delightful mix of pasta, beans, and vegetables, it’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing loved ones at the dinner table. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a fantastic solution for those hectic days when you need something delicious without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
This Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a true lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s not only easy to make, but it also packs a punch of flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. The combination of hearty beans and tender pasta creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you—who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a rich flavor to the soup.
- Ground beef: It brings heartiness to the dish, but you can substitute with ground turkey or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Carrots: Diced carrots provide a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery: This crunchy vegetable adds freshness and a subtle earthiness.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.
- Kidney beans: These beans are packed with protein and fiber, making the soup filling.
- Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, they enhance the texture and nutritional value.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity and a burst of flavor.
- Beef broth: This is the soul of the soup, providing a rich, savory base.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your bowl.
- Small pasta: I love using ditalini, but any small pasta will do. It soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding spinach or kale for extra greens. You can also swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian. If you want to make it gluten-free, just choose gluten-free pasta. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cozy meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial because it helps infuse the oil with flavor. When the oil shimmers, it’s ready for the next ingredient. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Browning the beef adds depth and richness to the soup. You want those lovely caramelized bits to develop; they’re packed with flavor!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies until they’re tender, about 5 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the best texture. The vegetables will soften and sweeten, creating a beautiful base for your soup.
Step 4: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Now it’s time to stir in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes. These beans are not just tasty; they’re also packed with protein and fiber, making your soup hearty and nutritious. The tomatoes add a lovely acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This simmering time is where the magic happens. The flavors meld together, creating a rich and comforting broth that warms your soul.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
After the soup has simmered, it’s time to add the small pasta. I recommend ditalini, but any small pasta will work. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it; you want that perfect bite!
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This last step is crucial for enhancing all those wonderful flavors. Serve your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli hot, and watch your family’s faces light up with joy. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy delight!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Don’t skip the browning step; it adds a depth of flavor that makes a difference.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually; taste as you go for the best results.
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer without the pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating later.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the meat.
- Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies.
- Can opener: To easily open those canned beans and tomatoes.
Variations of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra beans or lentils for protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that warms you up.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. Stir them in just before serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. They’ll cook down beautifully in the soup.
Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this cozy meal without worry!
Can I freeze Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully, making for a delightful meal.
Can I customize the ingredients in Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?
Definitely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even swap the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!
Final Thoughts
Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a moment of warmth and comfort for your family. Each spoonful is a reminder of cozy nights spent together, sharing stories and laughter. This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup brings joy to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let this hearty dish become a cherished part of your family meals!
Print
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli: A Cozy Delight Awaits!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth.
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg