Pasta Fagioli

The comforting and hearty Pasta Fagioli is a must-try dish that beautifully combines pasta and beans with vibrant vegetables and savory ground beef. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and satisfying texture. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a warm bowl of comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a deliciously rich broth that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers, this dish keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 20 servings, it’s ideal for parties or feeding a large family.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your Pasta Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering soups, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Aids in quickly preparing your ingredients, making the process more efficient.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 29 oz diced tomatoes (with liquid, 2-14.5 oz cans)
• 15 oz dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz tomato sauce

For Seasoning

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp sugar

For the Pasta

• 8 oz Ditalini pasta

How to Make Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Over medium heat, brown the ground beef in a 5.5 quart dutch oven. This should take about 7 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

As the beef finishes browning, drain off most of the grease. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes until they soften. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add in all remaining ingredients except for the Ditalini pasta. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately

While your soup is simmering, cook the Ditalini pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain when done.

Step 5: Serve Your Pasta Fagioli

Just before serving, stir the drained pasta into your soup mixture. Top with fresh basil for added flavor and enjoy your delicious bowl of Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli is a heartwarming dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for an aromatic touch.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken slices to elevate the protein content.
• Turkey Meatballs: For a twist, add turkey meatballs on top of your soup for extra flavor.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve garlic breadsticks on the side for a delicious complement.

Create a Salad Combo

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture while balancing the meal.
• Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella in a Caprese salad pairs beautifully with Pasta Fagioli.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli

Perfecting your Pasta Fagioli can transform this dish into something truly special. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your palate.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from getting mushy in the soup.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli pairs well with many sides that will round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for soaking up every drop of broth.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta makes for an excellent appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add both color and nutrition to your table.
5. Cheesy Flatbread: Soft flatbread topped with cheese complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers can serve as a filling side, packed with rice or quinoa.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Fagioli can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder the final dish.

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the soaking of beans: Using unsoaked beans can result in a gritty texture. If using dried beans, soak them overnight for better results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always taste as you go and tweak salt and spices according to your preference.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can affect the overall flavor of your Pasta Fagioli. Choose high-quality diced tomatoes for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta Fagioli.

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is an Italian soup made with pasta and beans, usually complemented by vegetables and savory broth, creating a hearty meal.

Can I use different types of meat in Pasta Fagioli?

Yes! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How do I make Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Pasta Fagioli, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add more vegetables for added flavor and texture.

Can I customize my Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your liking. This delicious recipe offers warmth and satisfaction in every bowl, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Try it out today!

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Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Pasta Fagioli is a warm and satisfying Italian-inspired soup that beautifully combines tender Ditalini pasta, hearty ground beef, and nutrient-rich beans, all simmered in a savory broth filled with vibrant vegetables. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a larger gathering with friends. With its robust flavors and filling ingredients, it’s no wonder Pasta Fagioli has become a beloved classic. Easy to prepare and even better as leftovers, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 29 oz diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 15 oz dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 8 oz Ditalini pasta
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp sugar

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 7 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess grease and add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened; add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings. Simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
4. Cook Ditalini pasta separately according to package instructions; drain.
5. Just before serving, stir the drained pasta into the soup mixture and enjoy topped with fresh herbs if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg