A rich and hardy dish, the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe is a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether you need a filling lunch, a cozy starter for dinner, or a complete meal on its own, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful. The combination of beans and pasta creates a satisfying texture, while the fresh herbs and spices add layers of taste that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of ground beef, beans, and Italian spices provides a rich flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or alongside crusty bread; it’s suitable for any meal occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and beef, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• One-Pot Wonder: Prepare everything in one Dutch oven, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this comforting recipe, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering soups, retaining heat efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your flavors are balanced perfectly.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

• 1 lb ground beef (454 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Soup Base

• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (422 g)
• 15 oz can tomato sauce (422 g)
• 4 cups chicken broth (946 ml)

For the Beans

• 15 oz can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained (425 g)
• 15 oz can Kidney beans, rinsed and drained (425 g)

Seasonings & Pasta

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (100 g)
• 2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a 5-quart Dutch oven or similar stockpot, heat the oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until browned. Stir regularly to break up any large clumps. Once cooked through, remove from the pot and drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

To the same pot, add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef to the Dutch oven. Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth along with rinsed Great Northern beans and kidney beans. Mix everything together thoroughly. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Incorporate Pasta & Seasonings

After simmering for 10 minutes, stir in the ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring back to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Finish with Basil

Before serving hot, stir in freshly chopped basil for an aromatic finish. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

This hearty soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that complement the flavors of the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough loaf works well to soak up the rich broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This adds freshness and elevates the presentation.

Alongside a Salad

• Pair the soup with a light garden salad. The crisp textures of fresh vegetables balance the warmth of the soup, making it a satisfying meal.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of the soup as an appetizer before a main course. This can whet appetites while providing a taste of comfort food.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds an element of novelty and makes for easy cleanup!

With Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or Romano cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle over their servings. The cheese adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

To ensure your Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on personal preference to ensure maximum flavor.

• Cook Pasta Separately: If you plan on storing leftovers, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy over time.

• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing your ingredients to simmer together for longer can deepen flavors. Consider simmering for an extra 10-15 minutes if time permits.

• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding back in whole beans. This creates a delightful contrast in consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into your hearty soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing that complements the warmth of the soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: These skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide fresh flavors that contrast beautifully with the rich soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a caramelized sweetness that pairs well with savory soups.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer an additional hearty option alongside your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter featuring olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables; this variety enhances your meal’s flavor profile.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches make for a comforting combination when dipped into hot soup.
8. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette introduces lightness while being nutritious alongside this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe, keep an eye out for these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Using the wrong beans: Different beans can alter the texture and flavor of the soup. Stick to Great Northern and Kidney beans for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking for perfect al dente pasta.
• Not seasoning adequately: Lacking enough salt and spices can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant taste. Always finish with fresh herbs just before serving for maximum flavor.
• Rushing the sautéing process: Sautéing vegetables helps develop their flavors. Take your time during this step for a richer soup base.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between bursts until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute that offers a leaner option while still providing great flavor.

Is this Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.

How can I customize this soup?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap out beans for variety!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe is both hearty and comforting, making it perfect for any meal. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its versatility!

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Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of our Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe. This hearty Italian-inspired soup features a rich combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables, all simmered to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Each spoonful offers a delightful texture from the pasta and beans, complemented by fresh herbs that elevate its taste profile. Whether enjoyed as a filling main course or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 15 oz can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 15 oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned (3-5 minutes). Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in cooked beef, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add rinsed beans; mix well and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Incorporate ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
7. Stir in chopped basil before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating extra vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. If storing leftovers, cook pasta separately to maintain texture.