This hearty Italian pasta fagioli recipe is a one-pot comfort food classic that combines ground beef, beans, pasta, and vegetables in a rich tomato broth. It’s an ideal dish for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, while still delivering robust flavors that satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup—just cook everything in one pot!
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the beans and beef, this meal will keep you satisfied.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add more beans for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian pasta fagioli recipe, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking all ingredients together without overflowing.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing cooked ground beef while leaving juices behind for flavor.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Fundamental for prepping vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 6 cloves garlic, minced

For the Flavor

• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup uncooked ditalini

Finishing Touches

• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper
• grated Parmesan for garnish
• fresh chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, crumbling with a spatula until browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meat from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce heat without wiping out the pan. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery along with a couple of large pinches of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook while stirring frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, both types of beans, chicken stock, uncooked ditalini pasta, cooked ground beef back into the pot along with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Then reduce heat to medium or medium-low. Let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes or until ditalini is tender but still al dente.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste your pasta fagioli recipe one last time. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving Italian pasta fagioli can elevate your dining experience and bring out the best flavors of this hearty dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will complement your meal.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add a twist by offering garlic bread, which enhances the overall flavor profile.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few basil leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs well with the tomato base.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Finish each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Melt shredded mozzarella on top for a rich, gooey texture that complements the soup.

Serve as a Main Dish

• Accompanied by Salad: Pair it with a light green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar to balance the meal.
• In Larger Bowls: Serve in deep bowls to emphasize its hearty nature, making it feel like a true main dish.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Italian pasta fagioli recipe can make all the difference in taste and texture. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly boost flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Start with smaller amounts of salt and pepper, tasting as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure ditalini pasta is cooked only until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the broth.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can help meld flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for varied textures and tastes; navy beans or chickpeas can work well.
• Store Properly: If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Italian pasta fagioli with these delightful side dishes.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that balances well with the soup’s heartiness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a sweet contrast and fresh flavors alongside the savory soup.
3. Caprese Salad: A simple caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil adds freshness to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers provides variety and excitement.
5. Garlic Knots: These buttery garlic knots are perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from your bowl of pasta fagioli.
6. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries add a unique twist and delightful texture that pairs nicely with the soup.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a refreshing bite before enjoying your main dish.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide additional substance while complementing the flavors of pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong type of pasta: Using a pasta that doesn’t hold up well in soup can make your dish mushy. Stick to small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season during cooking can lead to bland flavors. Taste your dish at various stages and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking slightly in the soup.
• Skipping the sauté step: Skipping the sautéing of vegetables can lead to less flavor. Always take time to cook onions, garlic, and other veggies before adding liquids.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect taste. Choose good-quality ingredients for a richer flavor profile.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through cooking can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Allow the soup to simmer gently for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Portion into single servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers of the Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What other beans can I use in this Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

You can substitute with any beans you like, such as black beans or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.

How spicy is this Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

Final Thoughts

The Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite beans or vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of this classic Italian soup!

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Italian Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of our Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a delightful one-pot dish that combines ground beef, hearty beans, and tender pasta in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. In just under 40 minutes, you can serve a satisfying meal that bursts with robust flavors. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or extra beans for an added nutritional boost. Enjoy this classic Italian soup that will surely become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Remove beef with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery with salt and pepper for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste; cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, both types of beans, chicken stock, uncooked ditalini pasta, and cooked beef back to the pot. Season to taste.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for about 5 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed; garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-pot cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Experiment with different types of beans for varied textures.