This Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Olive Garden dish. It combines hearty ingredients and bold flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. The rich broth, combined with tender pasta and beans, creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and depth of flavor, ensuring a satisfying experience every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and aromatic herbs provides a savory experience that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute the pasta or beans to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty soup is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make preparing this dish even more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, it helps combine flavors effectively.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.

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Ingredients

To create this flavorful Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• 1 Parmesan rind (optional but highly recommended)
• Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables and Sausage

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned. Then add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with chicken broth and water. If you’re using it, add the Parmesan rind at this stage for added flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans and Pasta

After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low. Stir in red kidney beans, cannellini beans, ditalini pasta, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer Until Done

Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove from heat when done. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley or basil along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy your bowl of Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and complements the soup’s savory notes.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the umami flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella on top offers a gooey, indulgent touch.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich soup.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves can elevate the aroma and flavor profile of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the hearty soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring freshness that complements the dish well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your table.
4. Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for sopping up every last drop of the broth.
5. Antipasto Platter: Offer an assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats for a delightful starter.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans can provide a filling side option.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a fresh appetizer before the meal.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette is refreshing and light alongside this hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Sausage Browning: Failing to brown the sausage before adding it to the soup can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take time to sear it for that rich umami taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Add it to the soup only during the last 10 minutes of cooking for perfect al dente texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and don’t hesitate to add more seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality crushed tomatoes can diminish the soup’s overall taste. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
• Not Letting It Sit: Serving immediately may not let flavors meld together. Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes enhances its taste as ingredients mix well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I use turkey sausage instead?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative that offers similar flavors with less fat.

How spicy is the Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli?

The spiciness depends on the type of sausage used. You can adjust red pepper flakes based on your preference.

What can I substitute for ditalini pasta?

You can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or mini shells if ditalini isn’t available.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and versatility allow you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try it today and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic favorite!

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Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli

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

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Description

Discover the comforting warmth of Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta e Fagioli, a delightful twist on the classic Italian soup. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and zesty chicken sausage in a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. With just 10 minutes of prep time and an array of vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s not only satisfying but also versatile—feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste! Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and grated cheese for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb spicy Italian chicken sausage (casings removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken sausage before adding diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes along with chicken broth and water, adding Parmesan rind if using.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Add drained beans, ditalini pasta, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until pasta is cooked through. Stir occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot garnished with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor depth, consider browning the sausage well. Adjust seasoning according to your preferences; more herbs can enhance the dish. Feel free to use turkey sausage for a lighter option or experiment with different small pastas.