Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful and hearty dish that brings comfort to the table. This Italian classic is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it stands out as a versatile option for any occasion. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of beef, beans, and tomatoes creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Packed: Full of protein and fiber, this soup is not only filling but also good for you.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Chopping knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, allowing for perfect simmering without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with juices

For the Beans

• 1 14 oz can red kidney beans drained
• 1 14 oz can cannellini beans or great northern beans drained

For the Vegetables

• 3 sticks celery chopped finely
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled & chopped finely
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional (or add more to taste)

To Taste

• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Place the beef in a soup pot or Dutch oven and cook over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon until it’s just browned. It’s fine not to drain the fat.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook for another 8-10 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, canned beans, chicken broth, red apple vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer partially covered for 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked ditalini pasta to the soup. Simmer until tender, around 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you plan on leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately for individual servings.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

This Easy Pasta e Fagioli recipe offers comfort in a bowl while being simple enough for anyone to prepare! Enjoy this nourishing dish any night of the week.

How to Serve Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Easy Pasta e Fagioli is simple and versatile. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and appeal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of freshly baked baguette for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup, offering a delightful contrast.

Topped with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella: Add shredded mozzarella cheese for a gooey, melty topping that complements the dish well.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp and refreshing element to balance the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette can lighten up the meal while adding freshness.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil brings a vibrant touch and enhances the Italian flavors in the soup.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal flavor, making the dish visually appealing.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta e Fagioli

To ensure your Easy Pasta e Fagioli turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the best possible flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with a high-quality chicken broth to enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Sauté Vegetables Well: Take time to sauté your onions, celery, and carrots until they soften; this builds a flavorful base for your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices after each step to ensure balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately for Leftovers: If you plan on having leftovers, cook pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing Easy Pasta e Fagioli with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic oil are perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies provides color and nutrition alongside your hearty soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers adds variety and flavor to your meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer an additional filling option alongside the soup.
6. Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes provide a unique texture that pairs nicely with the creamy aspects of the pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Easy Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Avoid these common mistakes for a perfect bowl every time.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it can become mushy. For best results, cook it separately if you plan on having leftovers.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and season accordingly.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned veggies instead of fresh can impact flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables to enhance taste.
• Rushing the Simmer: Don’t skip the simmering step; it builds flavor. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes before serving.
• Neglecting Bean Prep: Failing to rinse canned beans can add excess sodium. Always drain and rinse them before adding to your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool down before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Easy Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Pasta e Fagioli

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Easy Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables, perfect for any meal.

Can I use other types of pasta?

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

How do I make Easy Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I customize the ingredients in Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute different beans based on your preferences.

How long does Easy Pasta e Fagioli last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is not just a comforting dish; it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste. You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or spices. We encourage you to give it a try and enjoy this delightful Italian classic!

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Easy Pasta e Fagioli

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty Italian soup that warms the soul. Packed with rich flavors from ground beef, hearty beans, and fresh vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to quick weeknight meals. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a nourishing bowl of goodness that not only fills you up but also delights your taste buds. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad and crusty bread. Plus, it’s ideal for meal prep, as leftovers taste even better the next day!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 can (14 oz) red kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans or great northern beans, drained
• Fresh vegetables: celery, onion, carrots, garlic
• Seasonings: red apple vinegar, Italian seasoning, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until just cooked.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 15-20 minutes.
5. Add uncooked ditalini pasta; continue simmering until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. You can customize this recipe by incorporating different vegetables or using vegetable broth for a lighter option.