Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is a delightful take on the classic Italian dish that warms the soul. This rich and hearty soup combines lean ground beef with fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. The unique blend of ingredients not only brings out robust flavors but also ensures a healthy meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be on your table in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of beef, vegetables, and Italian seasonings creates a deliciously rich taste that’s sure to satisfy.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using different types of pasta.
• Nutritious Meal: With beans and vegetables included, this soup provides a balanced meal with plenty of fiber and protein.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly evenings, this Pasta Fagioli Soup warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools help ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring an even mix.

Ingredients

For this hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Protein & Beans

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 15 ounce can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans (white beans), drained and rinsed

Vegetables

• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup carrots (diced)
• 1 cup celery (about 3 stalks, sliced)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves

Sauces & Seasonings

• 2 ½ cup tomato sauce (or passata)
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup water (then more as desired)
• 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning (Herbs and spices)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Oils & Pasta

• 2 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
• 1 cup uncooked gluten-free small pasta (ditalini, elbows, shells)

Garnishes

• finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Chopped fresh parsley for serving

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat from the pot and transfer the beef to a plate; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender for about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the pot along with Italian herbs, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, water, and crushed tomatoes. Bring everything to a boil over medium heat before reducing to medium-low. Simmer until vegetables are tender but not overly soft.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the soup simmers, cook your chosen small pasta according to packaging directions until al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the cooked pasta along with white beans and kidney beans into the soup. Taste for seasoning; if it’s too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with additional water or broth.

Step 7: Serve

Allow everything to cook together for an additional minute. Stir in chopped parsley before serving warm topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.

Top with Cheese

• A sprinkle of finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese adds a creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds a pop of freshness.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a unique dining experience.

Offer a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness beautifully.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an unbeatable version of this classic dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Keep them tender yet crisp for added texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go; add salt and pepper little by little to avoid over-seasoning.
• Use Al Dente Pasta – Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it won’t become mushy when mixed into the soup.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can enhance its flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Complementing your Pasta Fagioli Soup with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted with garlic butter, it’s perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs and herbs make a delightful appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter – A variety of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates a flavorful starter.
6. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs nicely with hearty soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef properly can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always ensure the meat is well-browned before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy and lose their vibrant color. Aim to cook until they are tender but still retain some crunch.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: If you don’t taste as you go, the soup may end up bland. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs throughout cooking for a balanced flavor.
• Using regular pasta instead of gluten-free: Regular pasta may not fit all dietary needs. Opt for gluten-free pasta to accommodate various preferences and ensure everyone can enjoy the dish.
• Not checking the thickness: If your soup is too thick, it can become unappetizing. Always check consistency and add broth or water as needed during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that offers a leaner option while still providing excellent flavor.

What type of beans work best in Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can use dark red kidney beans and cannellini beans, but feel free to experiment with other types like pinto or black beans.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with lentils or more beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only rich and comforting but also adaptable to suit your personal taste preferences. You can mix in different vegetables or substitute proteins as desired. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting and hearty Italian classic that brings warmth to any table. This delectable soup features lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and nutritious beans simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for chilly nights or casual family gatherings, this version is not only quick to prepare but also easily customizable to suit your taste. With fiber-rich ingredients and protein-packed goodness, it’s a nourishing meal that everyone will love. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 2 ½ cups tomato sauce
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked gluten-free pasta (like ditalini)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning (Herbs and spices)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until tender.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Simmer until vegetables are tender. Cook pasta separately according to package directions.
6. Stir cooked pasta and beans into the soup just before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg