Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Make a large pot of this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup for a warming and comforting meal. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings, combining rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its hearty texture and robust taste make it a standout dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Satisfying: Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is perfect for those cold days when you need something warm and filling.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for quick meals later. It keeps well, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Add more veggies or different beans as desired.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh veggies creates a deliciously flavorful soup that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring success every time.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help you prepare the soup efficiently and effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and browning meats, this pot holds all the ingredients comfortably while allowing for easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing without scratching your cookware; it helps blend flavors seamlessly.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to chop vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

To prepare your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ ounces thick-cut Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (crumbled)
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
• 5 medium celery stalks (diced (about 1 ½ cups))
• 2 small-medium onions (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
• 4 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For Liquids

• ½ cup red apple vinegar (OR more broth)
• 1 (24-oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (use fire-roasted for more flavor)
• 5 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed)

For Finishing Touches

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup dry Ditalini pasta
• 1 (15-oz) can dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 (15-oz) can white cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
• Grated parmesan (to serve (optional))
• Chopped parsley (to serve (optional))

How to Make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Turkey Bacon and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Next, add the crumbled sausage and continue cooking until browned, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced carrots, celery, onions, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until they start to soften, approximately 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Season and Deglaze

Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until evenly distributed. Pour in the red apple vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot while cooking for an additional minute.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Add in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat to low simmer and cover the pot; let it cook for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans

Stir uncooked Ditalini into the soup. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. Then add in the rinsed kidney beans and cannellini beans; continue simmering for another 4–5 minutes until pasta is cooked through. If needed, stir in more broth to reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately garnished with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Refrigerate any leftovers for up to three days.

How to Serve Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an appetizer, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve warm slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory touch and is perfect for soaking up the flavors.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle fresh grated parmesan on top for a rich, cheesy finish.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can provide a creamy element that complements the soup’s texture.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the hearty flavors of the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad adds freshness and balances the meal.

How to Perfect Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

To make this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup truly exceptional, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup as it cooks; feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a less soggy pasta, consider cooking Ditalini separately and adding it just before serving.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully overnight.
• Freeze Leftovers: Portion extra soup and freeze it for an easy meal later; just reheat and enjoy!

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a bright, flavorful bite.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes for a fantastic appetizer spread.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while complementing the soup’s heartiness.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a filling side dish that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold ingredients: Skipping or substituting key ingredients can drastically change the flavor. Always ensure you have all the essentials before starting.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland results. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it soggy. Cook it just until al dente and add it towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing through the simmering stage can prevent flavors from fully developing. Allow enough time for the soup to meld together beautifully.
• Using low-quality broth: The base of your soup is crucial. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for better depth of flavor, or make your own if possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers since the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a rich Italian-inspired dish filled with beans, vegetables, and pasta. It’s perfect for a comforting meal any time of year.

How long does it take to make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and around 60 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 90 minutes from start to finish.

Can I customize my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or beans, adjust spices according to your taste, or switch up the pasta type based on what you have on hand.

Is Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup freezer-friendly?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and leave space at the top for expansion.

What can I serve with Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even garlic toast for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just filling; it’s also versatile and full of flavor. You can easily customize it by adding different veggies or proteins based on your preference. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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

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Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines robust flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This delightful soup features a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a rich, savory broth, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to enjoy with loved ones, this Italian-inspired recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and easily customizable to suit your family’s preferences. Enjoy a warm bowl of Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup and embrace the comforting flavors it brings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ ounces diced turkey bacon
• 1 pound crumbled Italian sausage
• 3 medium carrots (diced)
• 5 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 onions (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup dry Ditalini pasta
• 2 cans beans (kidney and cannellini)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add turkey bacon and cook until browned. Add crumbled sausage and brown further.
2. Stir in carrots, celery, onions, and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and pour in vinegar while scraping the pot's bottom.
4. Incorporate tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper; bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 15–20 minutes.
5. Stir in Ditalini pasta and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes. Add rinsed beans and simmer for additional minutes until pasta is cooked through.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 45mg