Pasta E Fagioli

I went to Olive Garden not too long ago and had their soup and salad. The soup I had was their Pasta E Fagioli and it was divine. It had ground beef, carrot and garlic, diced tomatoes and beans, all in a savory tomato broth. With every bite, I took mental notes so I could recreate it at home. Being Italian, I wanted this to be in my repertoire and I wanted to share it with you! I know you’ll love my version of this recipe.

olive oil

1 lb. ground hamburger. I used venison (my sons and husband are hunters)

1/2 diced or shredded carrot

1/2 cup finely diced white onion

1 15 oz.can cannellini  beans

1 15 oz.can diced tomatoes

1 30 oz.can tomato sauce

8 cups water

2-3 tbs. oregano

2-3 tbs. basil

6 oz. of elbow shaped pasta

salt and pepper to taste

fresh chopped parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese as garnish

In a soup pot, heat a couple tbs. of olive oil and brown your hamburger, onion and garlic. When the hamburger is browned, layer the flavors with a tsp. of salt and pepper. Add the rest of your ingredients except the pasta and let it come to a boil. Let simmer for 20 minutes before adding your pasta. Once pasta is in allow 8-10 minutes for your soup to be ready. Ladle into bowls and garnish with some fresh, chopped parsley and freshly grated parmigiano reggiano.  It’s wonderful, hearty, and delicious.

I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.