Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that combines pasta and beans into a hearty soup. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering, this recipe offers robust flavors and satisfying textures. With its rich blend of vegetables and protein, Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also nutritious. This dish can easily adapt to various occasions, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of savory meats and fresh vegetables creates a rich and hearty flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite beans or pasta types to suit your taste and pantry.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the beans and meat, along with vitamins from the veggies, this dish is wholesome and filling.
• Great for Leftovers: Pasta e Fagioli tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: This tool provides ample space for simmering all ingredients evenly without overflowing.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked meat from the pot while retaining the flavorful drippings for sautéing vegetables.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb mild Italian sausage
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 large carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 3 15 oz cans tomato sauce
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes

Beans and Seasoning

• 1 15 oz can dark kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 15 oz cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tsp balsamic or apple cider vinegar
• 2 medium bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp sugar (optional)
• 2 tsp dry Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked ditalini pasta
• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for garnishing

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a Dutch oven or large soup pot. Add mild Italian sausage and ground beef. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until there is no pink remaining in the meat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked meat to a platter, reserving 3 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the reserved drippings, add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté these vegetables over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and beginning to brown.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Add tomato sauce, vegetable broth, beef broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, cooked sausage, ground beef, vinegar, bay leaves, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Finish with Pasta

Remove bay leaves from the pot. Stir in cooked ditalini pasta. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve your hearty Pasta e Fagioli garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread alongside your soup. This is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

With Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It complements the soup’s flavors and adds creaminess.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair your pasta e fagioli with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette works well to balance the dish’s richness.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy it as a standalone main course for lunch or dinner. Its filling nature makes it satisfying on its own.

In Individual Bowls

• For gatherings, serve in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to help themselves and enjoy their portions.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli

Creating the perfect Pasta e Fagioli takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavors significantly compared to canned ones.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy when stored or reheated.
• Add Greens: Consider adding spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color. Toss them in during the last few minutes of simmering.
• Use Quality Broth: A good quality vegetable or beef broth will make a big difference in the overall flavor of your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad: The crunch from romaine lettuce and creamy dressing contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and earthy flavors that complement the dish well.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring brightness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and herbs offer an exciting twist alongside your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates a flavorful spread that pairs nicely with Pasta e Fagioli.
7. Polenta Squares: Creamy polenta squares topped with marinara add comfort and texture to your meal.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia baked with herbs delivers an aromatic touch that’s irresistible next to your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pasta e Fagioli, even seasoned cooks can make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can result in a bland soup. Always take time to cook them until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding overcooked pasta can make your dish mushy. Cook the ditalini pasta just before mixing it into the soup to ensure it retains its texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient adds flavor, but you should taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can affect the overall taste of your Pasta e Fagioli. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or cheese toppings can make your dish less appealing. Always garnish with fresh parsley and grated cheese for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
• You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months; just be sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli:

What is Pasta e Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often enriched with vegetables and broth, creating a comforting meal.

Can I use different types of beans in Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes! While kidney and cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other beans like pinto or black beans based on your preference.

How do I make my Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or switch up the pasta shape based on what you have available at home.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This recipe makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy its warm flavors!

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Pasta e Fagioli

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Pasta e Fagioli is a warm, comforting Italian soup that perfectly blends tender pasta and hearty beans in a rich, flavorful broth. This dish is ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes. With fresh vegetables and protein-packed ingredients, Pasta e Fagioli not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite beans and pasta types, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen. Serve this delightful soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 large carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 15 oz cans tomato sauce
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 15 oz can dark kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 15 oz can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tsp balsamic or apple cider vinegar
• 2 medium bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp sugar (optional)
• 2 tsp dry Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cooked ditalini pasta
• Fresh parsley for garnishing

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, vegetable broth, cooked ground beef, kidney beans, cannellini beans, vinegar, bay leaves, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaves and add cooked ditalini pasta to the soup. Let it simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for enhanced flavor. Feel free to substitute beans according to your preference. Cooking pasta separately can help maintain its texture if storing leftovers.