Pasta Fagioli

The deliciousness of Pasta Fagioli makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. This hearty Italian soup combines the richness of ground beef with the wholesome goodness of beans and vegetables. The result is a comforting meal that warms the soul and fills the belly. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special events.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: This recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Packed: With a blend of spices and savory broth, each spoonful is bursting with flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Nutritionally Balanced: Combining protein from ground beef and fiber from beans, this soup offers a nutritious option that keeps you full longer.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or alongside crusty bread for dipping; it’s delightful either way.
• Large Batch: Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe yields 20 servings, making it great for gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Pasta Fagioli, gather all essential tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 5.5 quart dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 5.5 quart dutch oven: This pot is ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife helps chop vegetables efficiently, making prep time faster and safer.
• Wooden spoon: It’s perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and allows for better control while mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious batch of Pasta Fagioli:

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 Broth

• 29 oz diced tomatoes (with the liquid, from 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
• 1 cup beef broth

Seasoning

• 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 your dutch oven. Stir occasionally for about 7 minutes until it’s fully cooked.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, drain off most of the grease. Add in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes until they soften. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in all remaining ingredients except for the pasta: diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

While your soup simmers, cook Ditalini pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Just before serving, add the drained pasta into the soup. Top with fresh basil if desired and enjoy this comforting bowl of Pasta Fagioli!

This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings warmth to any table!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil – Top your Pasta Fagioli with freshly chopped basil for a fragrant touch.
• Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness to your bowl.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful, crunchy contrast.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for added richness.
• Mozzarella – Add mozzarella pearls for a creamy texture that melts delightfully.

As a Complete Meal

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad can balance the heartiness of Pasta Fagioli, making it a complete meal.
• Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious side.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli

To make your Pasta Fagioli truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flavor base – Start with sautéing onions, carrots, and celery to create a rich flavor foundation.
• Fresh ingredients – Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best taste; dried herbs can be used but fresh makes a difference!
• Simmer longer – Allow the soup to simmer longer than 20 minutes for deeper flavors; 30-40 minutes is ideal.
• Cook pasta separately – Always cook pasta separately to avoid it becoming mushy in the soup.
• Season wisely – Taste and adjust seasonings before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper elevates the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli pairs well with numerous sides that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for dipping into the savory broth of Pasta Fagioli.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing crunch alongside your soup.
3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a light appetizer before diving into your meal.
4. Caprese Salad – The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds bright flavors that pair beautifully with Pasta Fagioli.
5. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus brings an earthy note that complements the dish well.
6. Stuffed Peppers – These hearty peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer an additional layer of flavor when served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the pasta – If you cook the pasta too long before adding it to the soup, it can become mushy. Always follow package instructions and add it just before serving.
• Skipping the browning step – Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Take your time to brown it well for about 7 minutes.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Sometimes, store-bought broth or tomatoes can vary in saltiness. Taste your soup and adjust seasonings as needed for the best flavor.
• Using low-quality canned beans – Opt for high-quality, low-sodium beans for better taste and texture. Rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – A quick simmer won’t allow the flavors to meld. Ensure you let your soup simmer for at least 20 minutes for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Pasta Fagioli.

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically enhanced with vegetables and seasonings.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While Ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells.

How do I customize my Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or zucchini. You can also switch up the protein by using ground turkey or chicken.

Is Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from beans and beef while being rich in fiber and nutrients from vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth!