Pasta Fagioli

The comforting Pasta Fagioli is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. This Italian-inspired dish, featuring pasta and beans, is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. Its rich broth filled with tender vegetables and hearty ground beef makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. You will love how quickly this dish comes together while delivering satisfaction in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a savory soup that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of beans according to your taste.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 20 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering soups; its heavy base distributes heat evenly.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 29 oz diced tomatoes (with the liquid, 2-14.5 oz cans)
• 15 oz dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp sugar

For the Pasta

• 8 oz Ditalini pasta

How to Make Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef to the pot.
2. Cook until browned, about 7 minutes.
3. Drain off most of the grease once browned.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add in your diced vegetables.
1. Stir in the onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

Now it’s time to add in all your other ingredients.
1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with liquid), kidney beans, cannellini beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
2. Stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
3. Allow it to simmer for 20 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the soup simmers:
1. Boil water in a separate pot.
2. Cook Ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain before adding it to the soup.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Finally:
1. Add cooked pasta into the soup just before serving.
2. Top each bowl with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty feast, there are plenty of options to consider.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top your soup with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.
• Add Grated Cheese: Sprinkle fresh parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and creaminess.

Perfect Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad complements the richness of the soup.

Creative Twists

• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, provide chili flakes to sprinkle over individual bowls.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli

Perfecting Pasta Fagioli is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Use a variety of herbs and spices, like thyme or rosemary, to enhance the taste.
• Quality Broth: Choose high-quality beef broth for richer flavor in your soup base.
• Al Dente Pasta: Cook pasta separately until al dente, then add it to the soup right before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, perfect for scooping up the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that adds brightness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a great contrast in texture.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with parmesan and croutons pairs well with the heartiness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and herbs provide a filling accompaniment.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats makes for a delightful starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef thoroughly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Make sure to brown it well for the best taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the veggies too long can make them mushy. Sauté until just tender, retaining some crunch for better texture.
• Using low-quality broth: A good beef broth is essential for a rich flavor. Opt for a high-quality or homemade broth to elevate your dish.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient contributes different flavors; always taste and adjust seasonings as needed during cooking.
• Adding pasta too early: Adding pasta too soon will cause it to become soggy. Cook it separately and add just before serving for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pasta Fagioli.

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically featuring vegetables and ground meat simmered in broth.

Can I customize my Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Pasta Fagioli?

If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth when cooking, or mash some of the beans into the soup for added creaminess.

What type of pasta should I use?

While Ditalini is traditional, you can also use small shells or elbows. Just ensure they are bite-sized!

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli recipe offers warmth and comfort in every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients!