Olive Garden’s Pasta and Beans: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor

Name: Olive Garden's Pasta and Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups beef broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz small pasta (such as ditalini or macaroni); Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

If you’re searching for the perfect recipe to warm your heart and soul, look no further than Olive Garden’s Pasta and Beans. This savory dish, bursting with flavors and comforting aromas, brings the essence of Italian home cooking right to your dining table. Imagine the scent of sautéed garlic mingling with the richness of beef broth, filling your kitchen with a warm embrace. Each spoonful reveals tender pasta, hearty beans, and a medley of vegetables, inviting you to indulge in a hug-in-a-bowl experience.

Whether you’re snuggling up for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or hosting a gathering of family and friends, this recipe shines. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, ideal for both leisurely weekends and quick weeknight suppers. With its rich flavors, cross-texture harmony, and straightforward preparation, Pasta and Beans might just become a staple in your home.

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients used. For more accurate values, consult reliable sources like the USDA FoodData Central or similar databases.

Why Make This Recipe

Olive Garden’s Pasta and Beans is an exceptional combination of taste, aroma, and ease of preparation. It merges the heartiness of beans and beef with the comforting texture of pasta, creating a balanced and soul-satisfying meal. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s the main course for a family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a quick lunch that you can enjoy with a crusty piece of bread.

How to Make Olive Garden’s Pasta and Beans

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz small pasta (such as ditalini or macaroni)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef to keep the soup from being too greasy.
For optimal pasta texture, do not overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly after being added to the pot.

How to Serve

This hearty meal is best served warm, straight from the pot. You can pair it with a piece of crusty bread or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a delightful twist, offer it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance the flavors.

How to Store

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before re-heating.

Expert Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the cooking process.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes will complement the dish beautifully.
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tempeh or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a plant-based alternative.
Hearty Addition: Toss in kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant, nutritious twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be added alongside the fresh ones. Frozen beans are also a great option if canned beans are not available.
What can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutions for a lighter option.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker texture, mash some of the cannellini beans then stir them back into the pot.
What if I have leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a little extra broth can help maintain the soup’s consistency.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Pasta and Beans is more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create something delightful that will nourish both your body and soul. We hope you bring this dish into your kitchen and share it with loved ones. Don’t forget to share your feedback or any creative variations you come up with—we’d love to hear your stories and personal touches! Enjoy this flavorful experience and embrace the warmth with every bowl.