1 Delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli.
Forget takeout! This one-pot wonder captures the essence of Olive Garden's beloved Pasta e Fagioli in under an hour. Savory Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and flavorful vegetable broth create a symphony of comfort in every spoonful. Plus, the ditalini pasta soaks up all that deliciousness for a truly satisfying bite.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor:
This recipe is all about letting simple ingredients shine. Here's what makes it so good:
Italian Sausage: The star of the show! Choose mild, sweet, or hot to suit your spice preference. Its rich flavor forms the base of the soup.
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans complement everything else beautifully. Use canned beans for convenience or dried beans for a more rustic touch.
Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth adds depth and complexity, while low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level.
Ditalini Pasta: These little tubes soak up the broth and create a delightful texture.
Aromatic Vegetables: Chopped onions, carrots, and celery build flavor and sweetness for the soup.
One-Pot Magic:
The beauty lies in its simplicity! Here's how to create your masterpiece:
1. Sauté the Sausage: Brown the sausage in a large pot to render the fat for extra flavor.
2. Soften the Vegetables: Once browned, remove the sausage and sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant.
3. Broth & Beans: Pour in your chosen vegetable broth and add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
4. Spice it up: Now's your time to personalize! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or dried oregano and thyme for an Italian touch. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Pasta Time!: Add the ditalini to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
6. The Grand Finale: Once the pasta is cooked and the soup reaches your desired consistency, return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir it in gently to heat through.
Serve and savor:
Your copycat Pasta e Fagioli is ready! Ladle it into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick. Want it creamier? Swirl in a tablespoon of heavy cream just before serving.
Tips for Perfection:
Don't overcook the pasta. Remember, it continues cooking even after removing it from the heat. Aim for al dente (slightly firm) for the best texture.
Adjust Broth Consistency: Would you prefer a thinner soup? Simply add more vegetable broth to your liking.
Leftovers Welcome: This soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Get Creative!
This recipe is your springboard for culinary exploration! Here are some ways to customize it:
Veggie Power: Add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra nutrients.
Protein Boost: Want it heartier? Consider adding cooked shredded chicken or leftover roasted vegetables.
Spicy Kick: Love a little heat? Drizzle in sriracha or add a dollop of your favorite hot sauce for an extra zing.
Skip the takeout menus and embrace the convenience of this one-pot wonder. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavors, this copycat Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a weeknight staple in your kitchen.