Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This delightful soup is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or meal prep for the week. With rich flavors from tender beef and vibrant vegetables, it is both satisfying and nutritious. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste, making this Pasta Fagioli Soup a versatile favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beef, beans, and vegetables creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or beans based on what you have on hand!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it multiple times throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this comforting soup, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready simplifies your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients thoroughly to combine flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the best results.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

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

For Flavoring

• 2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning (Herbs and spices)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
• 1 cup uncooked gluten-free small pasta (ditalini, elbows, shells)
• 1 15 ounce can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans (white beans), drained and rinsed
• 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 lean ground beef and brown it thoroughly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chopped onions, diced carrots, and sliced celery over medium-high heat until they are tender—about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add Italian seasoning, granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, and browned beef back into the pot. Mix everything well for a couple of minutes until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Pour in low-sodium beef broth, tomato sauce, water, and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat before reducing to medium-low heat. Let it simmer until vegetables are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

While the soup simmers, prepare your small pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans

Stir in cooked pasta along with drained kidney beans and cannellini beans into the soup. Taste for seasoning; if it’s too thick for your liking, feel free to add more 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 delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty soup that your family and friends will love.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve warm slices of a crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add flavor with toasted garlic bread, perfect for scooping up the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Romano or Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top for a rich, savory finish.
• Cheese Croutons: Add crispy cheese croutons for an extra crunch and cheesy flavor.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Basil Leaves: For an aromatic touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Pairing with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing complements the soup well.
• Greek Salad: Fresh veggies and feta provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

To make your Pasta Fagioli Soup even better, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use High-Quality Broth: A good-quality low-sodium beef broth enhances the flavor without making it too salty.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy in the soup.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your soup before adding more salt or spices; it’s easier to add than to take away!
• Add Veggies Gradually: Start with firmer vegetables like carrots and celery, adding softer ones later to maintain texture.
• Experiment with Beans: Don’t hesitate to mix different beans for added texture and protein.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Enjoying your Pasta Fagioli Soup can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light side that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses pairs well with the hearty nature of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a flavorful boost to your meal.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains or veggies for a hearty side alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to be aware of to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender yet crisp veggies by checking their doneness frequently.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to enhance flavor.
• Using cold broth: Starting with cold broth can slow down cooking time. Always warm your broth before adding it to the pot for a quicker simmer.
• Skipping the pasta cooking step: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the soup can result in overcooked pasta. Cook it separately until al dente before mixing it in.
• Ignoring leftovers storage: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after cooling.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Garnishes like cheese and parsley add flavor and presentation. Don’t skip these finishing touches for a complete dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• If you want to freeze, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer individual portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize my Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What type of pasta works best in Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbows, or shells are ideal because they blend well with the soup’s texture.

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total time is approximately 45 minutes including prep and cook time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta varieties that suit your preference.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve, making it convenient for meal planning.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Soup recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also offers versatility in customization. Whether you prefer different proteins or additional veggies, you can make it uniquely yours. Give this hearty soup a try; it’s sure to be a family favorite!