Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

Hearty Pasta and Bean Soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This rich and flavorful soup features a delightful blend of beans, vegetables, and tender pasta for a satisfying meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it with crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Hearty: The combination of beans and ground beef creates a filling dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both children and adults, making it a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Pasta and Bean Soup , you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and make preparation a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Provides even heat distribution for browning meat and simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced white or yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped peeled carrot
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ tablespoons dried sweet basil
• 2-14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce

For the Beans

• 15 ounce can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounce can Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)

For the Liquid Base

• 2 ½ cups V-8 juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• parmesan rind (optional)

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces dry ditali pasta

For Garnish

• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add the lean ground beef to the pot.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned:
1. Drain most of the grease from the pot.
2. Return the beef back into the pot.
3. Stir in diced onion, chopped carrot, chopped celery, and minced garlic.
4. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add flavor:
1. Stir in Italian seasoning and dried sweet basil; let cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; mix well.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the beans:
1. Incorporate red kidney beans and Great Northern beans into the mixture.
2. Pour in V-8 juice along with salt and pepper; stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to medium-low:
1. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 50 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Pasta Separately

While the soup simmers:
1. In a separate pot, cook ditali pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain when done.

Step 7: Final Touches

Return to your soup:
1. Stir cooked pasta into the soup mixture.
2. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

If using parmesan rind, remove before serving:
1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Top with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this hearty Pasta and Bean Soup recipe as a comforting main dish!

How to Serve Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

Pasta and Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to complement this delicious soup.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the rich flavors of the soup.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Pair the soup with a light green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of the soup before serving to add color and freshness.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide grated parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on their soup, enhancing its flavor.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Present the soup in individual bowls for a more elegant dining experience, making it feel special.

How to Perfect Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

To achieve a truly comforting and flavorful Pasta and Bean Soup , consider these tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will bring out the best flavors in your soup and enhance its overall quality.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs during cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup while allowing for better texture.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors, making every bite more satisfying.
• Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor variations.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

Pasta e fagioli pairs well with several side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm slices of garlic bread make an excellent companion for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad: This simple salad of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a crunchy texture and complement the hearty soup nicely.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa add a filling side option alongside your soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers creates a delightful appetizer spread.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs beautifully with pasta e fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Bold seasoning mistakes: Using too little or too much seasoning can ruin the soup’s flavor. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking the pasta directly in the soup can lead to mushy noodles. Instead, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Bold skipping the sautéing step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables can result in lackluster flavor. Always take time to soften and caramelize them for a richer taste.
• Bold ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect the overall taste. Choose high-quality brands for better flavor in your soup.
• Bold rushing the simmering process: Not allowing enough time for the soup to simmer can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Aim for at least 50 minutes on low heat for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta and Bean Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in a covered baking dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe.

Can I use any type of beans?

You can use different types of beans such as black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just make sure they are cooked or canned properly.

How spicy is Pasta and Bean Soup ?

This recipe is not spicy but can be adjusted by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you enjoy heat.

Can I make this Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of V-8 juice for a vegetarian version.

How do I know when the soup is ready?

The soup is ready when all ingredients are well combined and heated through, typically after simmering for about 50 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Pasta and Bean Soup Recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among many. Feel free to customize with your choice of vegetables or protein options, making it uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pasta and Bean Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Pasta and Bean Soup is a warm and hearty dish that perfectly combines the rich flavors of beans, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables. This Italian classic is not only easy to make but also highly customizable, allowing you to use your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special meal for gatherings, this soup delivers on both taste and nutrition. Serve it with crusty bread or a light green salad for a satisfying dining experience that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup chopped carrot
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces each)
• 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 15 ounce can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounce can Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 ½ cups V-8 juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8 ounces dry ditali pasta

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until cooked through.
2. Drain excess grease and add diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (5-10 minutes).
3. Stir in Italian seasoning and cook briefly before adding diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
4. Mix in the beans, V-8 juice, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 50 minutes.
6. Cook ditali pasta separately until al dente; drain.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the soup for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (375g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 60mg