Pasta e Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat)

Make the best Pasta e Fagioli soup at home with this Olive Garden copycat recipe! This hearty Italian soup is packed with ground beef, ditalini pasta, kidney beans, and Great Northern beans in a rich, savory tomato broth. Perfect for a one-pot meal, this easy pasta and bean soup is cozy, comforting, and full of classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re meal prepping, making a quick dinner, or looking for a homemade Olive Garden favorite, this Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a must-try! Serve with garlic bread and Parmesan cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

This Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup loaded with ground beef, tender pasta, and beans in a rich tomato broth. Inspired by the classic Olive Garden favorite, this homemade version is packed with flavor and comes together in just one pot. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, this easy soup is sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Soup Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 32 oz chicken broth

Beans & Pasta

• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 oz canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasonings

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Beef
   • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil.
   • Add ground beef and cook for 3-5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it browns.
   • Once fully cooked, remove from the pot, drain any excess fat, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   • In the same pot, add diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
   • Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and the cooked beef.
   • Add the Great Northern beans and kidney beans, followed by the chicken broth.
   • Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Cook the Pasta
   • Stir in the ditalini pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   • Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Serve & Enjoy
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.

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Tips

• For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta to reduce the broth slightly.
• For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth.
• Make it ahead—the flavors develop even more after sitting overnight! Just add a splash of broth when reheating.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to absorb liquid after cooking. If making ahead, cook pasta separately and add before serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Choices: If you don’t have ditalini, try elbow macaroni or small shells.
• Beans: Use cannellini beans or black beans instead of Great Northern or kidney beans.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or serve the soup with rice instead.

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FAQs

Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. If freezing, it’s best to leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The pasta may absorb broth, so add a bit of water or broth when reheating.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except the pasta) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or focaccia for the ultimate cozy meal.
• Serve with a crisp Caesar or Italian salad for a complete restaurant-style experience.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
• Rich & Hearty – Packed with protein, fiber, and comforting flavors.
• Better Than Takeout – Tastes just like Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli but even better!
• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Enjoy this easy, homemade Pasta e Fagioli that brings all the flavors of Olive Garden straight to your kitchen! 🍲