Pasta Fagioli Soup

A warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup is comfort food at its finest. This hearty and budget-friendly bean and pasta soup is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this Italian-American classic can be adapted to suit various tastes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you choose the vegetarian option or add sausage for extra protein, this dish promises satisfaction in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: A delightful blend of herbs and spices elevates the taste, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Options: Customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer it vegetarian or with added sausage.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch to enjoy later; it holds up beautifully in the freezer.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients makes this soup an economical choice for families.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather your essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as it allows for even heat distribution and ample space for all ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage without bringing excess grease into the soup.

Ingredients

To make your flavorful Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 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

Seasoning & Broth

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

Beans & Pasta

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

To Finish

• 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 now. Cook until browned while breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in garlic along with oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with crushed tomatoes. Return the cooked sausage (if using) to the pot. Add rinsed cannellini and kidney beans.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions—typically around 8–10 minutes—until al dente.

Step 7: Season

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley and offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want it. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a hearty lunch. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread complements the soup’s rich flavors and adds a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

With Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds creaminess and depth to the soup. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a main dish accompanied by a simple side salad. This combination makes for a balanced and filling meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks great but also allows you to enjoy every last bite.

With Olive Oil Drizzle

• Drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the soup just before serving. This enhances the flavors and adds richness to each spoonful.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup

Creating the perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup takes some attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality broth enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To maintain pasta texture, consider cooking it separately and adding it to each bowl just before serving.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors, so don’t rush this step!
• Explore Variations: Feel free to include different beans or vegetables based on personal preference or seasonal availability.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fagioli Soup can make for an even more satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce dressed with creamy dressing that complements the soup nicely.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a flavorful bite that pairs well with any Italian dish.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add healthy crunch and sweetness that balance out the meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These are hearty and flavorful; they make an excellent accompaniment with their savory filling.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and excitement on your plate.
8. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables adds depth of flavor. Always take the time to cook the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.

• Using unseasoned broth: A bland broth can lead to a tasteless soup. Opt for seasoned chicken or vegetable broth to enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and add it towards the end of cooking for perfect al dente texture.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting throughout cooking is important. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure the soup is well-seasoned.

• Not allowing flavors to meld: Rushing the simmering process can hinder flavor development. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes for a rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta Fagioli Soup you might have before trying this recipe.

What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian-American dish that combines pasta, beans, vegetables, and broth into a comforting meal.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini, switch up the pasta shape, or even include different beans based on your preferences.

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes from prep to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner after a busy day.

Is Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from beans and offers plenty of fiber from vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only budget-friendly but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for an even more personalized touch!

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: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine in a budget-friendly meal. This delicious soup combines tender pasta, hearty beans, and fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious option perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich blend of spices and textures, this Italian-American classic offers versatility to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with crusty bread, Pasta Fagioli Soup is sure to become a staple in your home.

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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
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 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 or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until browned; remove and set aside.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with crushed tomatoes. Return cooked sausage (if using) and add rinsed beans.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions, typically around 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
7. Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
8. Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg