Pasta Fagioli Soup

A warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup is just what you need for a cozy weeknight dinner. This hearty and budget-friendly soup is packed with beans, pasta, and vegetables, making it a nutritious option for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe offers flexibility with vegetarian options and can easily be made in a slow cooker. Best of all, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup combines protein-rich beans with satisfying pasta, ensuring a filling meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and one-pot cooking, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Versatile Options: Customize it with your choice of meat or make it completely vegetarian to suit your preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples makes this recipe economical while still being delicious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick lunches or dinners later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

A hearty and budget-friendly bean and pasta soup, perfect for weeknights. This one-pot recipe can be made in a slow cooker and offers vegetarian or sausage variations. It freezes well.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (optional)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Broth

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If using sausage, add it to the pot and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the cooked sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same pot with drippings left from the sausage:
* Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
* Cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic along with oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth Ingredients

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with crushed tomatoes. Add back in the cooked sausage if using:
1. Stir in rinsed cannellini beans.
2. Add rinsed kidney beans.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil then reduce heat:
– Simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta:
– Cook according to package directions (usually around 8-10 minutes) until al dente.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls:
– Garnish with fresh parsley.
– Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its delightful flavors. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Whole basil leaves bring an aromatic touch that complements the soup.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds texture and flavor.
• Garlic Bread: A flavorful side that enhances the soup’s savory profile.

Add Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle on top for a rich, cheesy finish.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, feta cheese provides a delightful contrast.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing make for a refreshing side.
• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.

Enjoy with Pasta

• Additional Pasta: Serve extra ditalini or any small pasta on the side for those who want more.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup

Creating the perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to enhance your soup-making skills.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs and spices to amplify the taste. Fresh garlic and herbs can make a significant difference.
• Quality Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for better control over salt levels.
• Beans Variety: Experiment with different beans like chickpeas or black beans for unique textures and flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushiness, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Freeze Portions: This soup freezes well, so consider making extra for future meals!

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing your Pasta Fagioli Soup with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible pairing.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies seasoned and roasted add nutritious variety alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a delicious start to your meal.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and brightness to balance the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook the onion, carrot, and celery first to enhance flavors.
• Choosing the wrong pasta: Using a pasta that cooks too quickly can result in mushy soup. Opt for ditalini or another small pasta that holds up well during cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup can make it taste dull. Be sure to taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking beans: Adding canned beans too early can lead to them disintegrating. Stir them in towards the end of cooking to keep them intact.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Skipping the simmering step means missing out on deep flavor development. Always allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes.
• Neglecting garnishes: Serving without garnishes can make your dish less appealing. Fresh parsley and grated cheese add not only flavor but also visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Pasta Fagioli Soup will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Pasta Fagioli Soup or how to customize it, check out these FAQs:

What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and broth. It’s known for being filling while being budget-friendly.

Can I make Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit any meat such as sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes total—15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use different types of beans in Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How do I store leftover Pasta Fagioli Soup?

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

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli Soup is an excellent choice for busy weeknights due to its simplicity and rich flavors. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have available. Whether you prefer a meaty version or a hearty vegetarian option, this soup is sure to please everyone at your table!

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Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up your evenings with a comforting bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup. This classic Italian dish combines hearty beans, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables in a delicious broth, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Easy to prepare in one pot or a slow cooker, this nutritious recipe caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Plus, it freezes beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful soup any time you need a quick and satisfying meal. With its blend of flavors and filling ingredients, Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings family together around the table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Remove sausage and sauté onion, carrots, and celery in the same pot until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken or vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes; return sausage to the pot if using.
5. Stir in cannellini and kidney beans; bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot with fresh parsley on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-pot cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 20mg