Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it ideal for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and rich Italian flavors, this soup is a delightful one-pot meal that warms you up on chilly nights. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it feels with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is packed with ground beef, beans, and pasta, providing a filling meal that satisfies.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday staples, this recipe is easy to throw together without any specialty items.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile Flavor: Customize the soup with your favorite beans or vegetables for a personalized touch.
• Family-Friendly: A hit among both adults and kids, making dinner time enjoyable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delicious soup, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking everything in one vessel, which saves time on cleanup.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for consistent flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

This pasta fagioli soup recipe features wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Liquid

• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water (plus more as needed)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great Northern beans, drained and rinsed

For Garnish

• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese, for garnish

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat from the pot and transfer the beef to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, granulated sugar, and all dried herbs. Return the browned beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the soup simmers, cook ditalini pasta in a separate pot until just shy of al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

After simmering, add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great Northern beans into the soup. Stir well and simmer for another 2 minutes. If desired, adjust consistency by adding extra water.

Step 6: Finish Up

Stir in freshly minced parsley before ladling soup into bowls. Top each serving with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Enjoy your hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Pasta fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty soup, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall taste.

Serve with Cheese

• Topping each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese provides a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Include a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Offer Extra Olive Oil

• Drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil over each bowl can elevate the flavors and add a luxurious touch to your pasta fagioli soup.

Accompany with Wine (Non-Alcoholic Option)

• For those who prefer not to use alcohol, try serving grape juice or sparkling water alongside the soup for a refreshing pairing.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

To ensure your pasta fagioli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve that authentic Italian flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors to your soup. Opt for seasonal produce when possible for the best taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup and keeps it al dente.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it’s perfectly balanced.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Complementing your pasta fagioli soup with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – This classic accompaniment features buttery garlic spread on toasted bread, ideal for scooping up delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing the warmth of the soup nicely.
3. Caprese Skewers – These skewers combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, providing a fresh bite.
4. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, roasted peppers, artichokes, and cheeses complements the Italian flavors beautifully.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and depth to your meal while being healthy and colorful.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs offer a savory bite that pairs well with pasta fagioli.
7. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread; this appetizer is fresh and flavorful.
8. Spinach Dip – Creamy spinach dip served with pita chips or veggies adds a delightful contrast to your hearty soup dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can result in a less flavorful soup. Make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned for the best taste.
• Using Regular Salt: Not seasoning adequately can leave the soup bland. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors as you cook.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can lead to mushiness in your soup. Aim for al dente texture, as it will continue cooking when added to the hot soup.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh parsley or not adding it at the end diminishes freshness. Always stir in fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Not Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, you might not add enough liquid. Feel free to adjust with extra water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe pot.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring regularly until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe that may help you during preparation.

What makes this Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) special?

This recipe is special because it combines hearty ingredients like lean ground beef, beans, and fresh herbs, creating a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables for added texture and flavor.

How do I store leftover Pasta Fagioli Soup?

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape you enjoy or have on hand.

How do I add more flavor to my soup?

Consider adding additional spices like red pepper flakes or using homemade broth instead of store-bought for a richer taste.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or legumes for a personal touch. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and will surely become a family favorite!