When the chill of evening sets in and the cravings for comfort food strike, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup. One evening, while staring at an empty fridge, I found a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients just waiting to be transformed into a meal. This delightful soup came together seamlessly, turning into a filling feast of flavors that instantly felt like a hug in a bowl.
Imagine the rich aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in olive oil, inviting you into the kitchen as the comforting sounds of bubbling broth fill the air. It’s the perfect antidote to weeks of takeout and fast food—simple yet brilliant in its combination of tender ground meat, robust beans, and al dente pasta. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to savor the moment rather than stress over dinner prep. Gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up this delightful Pasta e Fagioli Soup that’s bound to impress family and friends alike!
Why is Pasta e Fagioli Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This Pasta e Fagioli Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Quick & Easy: With just one pot required, you can whip up this delightful dish without the fuss of multiple pans.
Nutritious goodness: Packed with lean ground meat, beans, and vegetables, this soup is a wholesome choice for those seeking delicious homemade meals.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinner or a gathering, everyone will savor the heartiness of this comforting bowl of goodness.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or herbs, creating a unique twist each time!
Once you try this delightful recipe, your evenings of fast food will be a thing of the past. Let’s get cooking!
Pasta e Fagioli Soup Ingredients
• Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful Pasta e Fagioli Soup that will warm your heart.
For the Soup Base
- Lean ground meat – adds a hearty protein element that makes the soup filling.
- Olive oil – for sautéing vegetables, bringing out their natural flavors.
- Yellow onion – provides a sweet, aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Garlic – infuses the dish with a flavorful punch that enhances all the ingredients.
- Carrots – add sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- Celery – contributes a fresh crunch and enhances the overall taste.
For the Liquid
- Chicken broth – serves as the flavorful base of the soup, enriching each spoonful.
- Tomato sauce – adds depth and tanginess, complementing the other flavors.
- Diced tomatoes – introduce texture and a burst of freshness without draining.
For the Seasoning
- Dried basil – uplifts the soup with its fragrant and slightly sweet notes.
- Dried oregano – delivers an earthy aroma that brings the soup to life.
- Dried thyme – adds a hint of warm, woodsy flavor that rounds off the dish perfectly.
For the Beans
- Kidney beans – provide heft and a protein boost, making the soup satisfying.
- Great Northern beans – add creaminess and complement the kidney beans beautifully.
For the Pasta
- Ditalini pasta – small and tube-shaped, this pasta is perfect for catching all the delicious broth.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re set to create a comforting bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup that your loved ones will adore!
How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. This warm base will help release all those wonderful aromas.
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Brown 1 pound of lean ground meat in the pot, stirring occasionally until it’s evenly cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This adds a delicious depth and protein to your soup.
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Sauté the freshly minced garlic and diced onion for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent. Then, add 3 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks, cooking until the veggies become tender, around 5 more minutes.
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Combine the chicken broth, 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, and the dried spices: 1 teaspoon each of basil, oregano, and 3/4 teaspoon thyme in the pot. Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and Great Northern beans for a hearty character.
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Simmer the mixture on medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to meld those flavors together into pure deliciousness.
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Add 1/2 cup of ditalini pasta to the pot, cooking until the pasta is tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes. This will transform your soup into a comforting, filling meal.
Optional: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pasta e Fagioli Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during busy weeknights! You can brown the ground meat and sauté the vegetables (onion, garlic, carrots, and celery) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can combine all the broth and canned ingredients (tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and seasonings) together up to 3 days ahead, which helps the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup base to a boil, add the cooked meat and veggies, then stir in the ditalini pasta for a quick finish, ensuring your meal is just as delicious as when freshly made.
Tips for the Best Pasta e Fagioli Soup
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Ingredient Quality: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for richer flavors. Fresh ingredients elevate your Pasta e Fagioli Soup to new heights!
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Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes. This melds the flavors perfectly, creating a deeper and more comforting taste.
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Pasta Perfection: Add the ditalini pasta towards the end of cooking. Overcooking will lead to mushy noodles, so keep them al dente for the best texture.
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Custom Seasonings: Feel free to adjust herbs to your preference. More oregano or a dash of crushed red pepper can offer a personalized touch to your Pasta e Fagioli Soup.
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Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few beans against the pot’s side before stirring them in, enhancing the overall texture and richness.
What to Serve with Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
A steaming bowl of pasta e fagioli soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides elevates your dining experience to new heights.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, this classic complements the rich broth perfectly and is perfect for dipping!
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Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection add a comforting earthiness to your meal.
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Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Golden and crispy, these potatoes enhance the meal with their savory flavors and satisfy any carb cravings.
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Stuffed Peppers: These colorful bundles filled with rice, beans, and spices harmonize beautifully with the flavors in your soup.
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Herb-Infused Quinoa: A light and nutritious side, the nutty flavor of quinoa adds a hearty element while keeping your meal wholesome.
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Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Chianti elevates the tomato base, creating an exquisite dining experience.
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Lemon Tart: End on a sweet note with a tart dessert that cleanses the palate and adds a zestful finish to your meal.
Embedding these delightful pairings with your pasta e fagioli soup will surely make for a memorable family meal!
How to Store and Freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave room for expansion, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Stir well before serving to incorporate any separated ingredients.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for quick, comforting meals anytime you crave a warm bowl of satisfaction!
Pasta e Fagioli Soup Serving Suggestions
Pairing your delightful Pasta e Fagioli Soup with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights! Here are some comforting options that create a harmonious spread to satisfy your hunger.
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Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of fresh, crusty bread to dip into the rich broth. It soaks up all those flavors and adds a wonderful texture contrast.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These offer a savory companion, making for a delightful, buttery addition to your soup experience. The crunch of garlic breadsticks complements the softness of the soup beautifully.
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Mixed Greens Salad: Add a refreshing touch to your meal with a light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The brightness balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
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Cheese Toast: Top slices of bread with gooey melted cheese to create an irresistible topping that enhances each spoonful of soup. The creamy texture mimics the richness of the soup!
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Parmesan Shavings: Sprinkle some freshly shaved Parmesan on top of your soup right before serving for a punch of salty, nutty flavor. It adds a wonderful finishing touch.
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Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the soup can enhance its richness and introduce a touch of elegance.
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Sliced Avocado: For a creamy twist, serve slices of avocado alongside, adding healthy fats and a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the soup’s ingredients.
Choosing these delightful sides will ensure your Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that warms the soul!
Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for fresh, vibrant vegetables—choose onions that are firm and without blemishes. Carrots should be bright orange and free from dark spots, while celery stalks should be crisp and crunchy. For the meat, lean ground beef or turkey works well; make sure it’s bright red with no discoloration. Using high-quality chicken broth will elevate the flavors of your soup!
How should I store my leftover Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
You can store your delicious soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before reheating, give it a stir and consider adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much while stored. Keep that comfort food vibe alive with each reheating session!
Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Yes, you can certainly freeze your soup! For optimal freshness, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No need to worry! If you find your Pasta e Fagioli Soup is too thick after cooking or reheating, add a bit of chicken broth or water while stirring to achieve your desired consistency. If the soup is too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate, enriching the flavors.
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind for this recipe?
Very important! When making your Pasta e Fagioli Soup, be mindful of dietary restrictions. If someone is gluten-sensitive, substitute the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free version or use a different grain like quinoa. For those with bean allergies, you can replace the beans with diced potatoes for a unique texture. Always keep an eye on ingredients, especially if pets are nearby, as certain spices can be harmful to them.
Warm Up with Heartwarming Pasta e Fagioli Soup Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Brown the ground meat in the pot, stirring occasionally until it's cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent; add diced carrots and celery, cooking until tender, about 5 more minutes.
- Combine chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices in the pot. Stir in the drained beans.
- Simmer until it reaches a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook until tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes.