Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

A delightful and hearty one-pot meal, Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. It’s a go-to dish that pleases everyone around the table, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pot and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this dish is a great source of protein and fiber.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a side—it’s perfect for any meal of the day.
• Comforting Flavor: Rich tomato sauce combined with savory spices creates a warm and inviting dish that warms the soul.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty, filling soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Pasta Fazool, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: This versatile pot is perfect for simmering soups and maintaining even heat.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring your meal cooks evenly.
• Measuring cups: These are essential for accurate ingredient portions, helping achieve the best flavor balance.

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Ingredients

A yummy one-pot meal that is super easy to make! Pasta Fazool is healthy comfort food that satisfies the whole family using commonly found ingredients!

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, casings removed)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Sauce and Pasta

• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 15 ounces fire roasted tomatoes (do not drain)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup dry pasta (I use ditalini)

For the Beans

• 15 ounces red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped finely)

How to Make Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground beef or sausage, stirring occasionally until cooked through.
* Remove the meat from the pot and drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
* Add diced onions, carrots, and celery.
* Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot.
* Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to release its aroma.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken stock, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, cooked meat, and ditalini pasta.
* Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat and cover with a lid.
* Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and pasta is cooked.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans

Add drained kidney beans and cannellini beans to the pot.
* Cook for another few minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

With these simple steps, enjoy your delicious bowl of Pasta Fazool!

How to Serve Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pasta Fazool is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this comforting soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your Pasta Fazool with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a satisfying combination.

Topped with Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on top of each bowl. The cheese adds a rich flavor that complements the ingredients beautifully.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Use freshly chopped parsley or basil as a garnish for added color and freshness. This simple touch elevates the presentation of your dish.

Side Salad

• Serve a light green salad alongside your Pasta Fazool. A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

How to Perfect Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Perfecting your Pasta Fazool involves some simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for a richer taste. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This ensures that your soup has just the right balance of flavors.

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente before adding it to the soup. This helps maintain its texture, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps meld the flavors together, making it even more delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fazool can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up soup while adding extra flavor.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the richness of Pasta Fazool.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.

4. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad offers crunch and creaminess, balancing out the warm soup nicely.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be made ahead and provide an additional hearty component to your meal.

6. Antipasto Platter
   An antipasto platter with olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for a delightful appetizer before serving your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fazool, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold Flavoring: Not seasoning properly can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks and aim for al dente.
• Bold Ingredient Prep: Neglecting to chop vegetables evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to dice your onions, carrots, and celery uniformly.
• Bold Stock Choices: Using low-quality chicken stock can drown out flavors. Choose a good-quality stock or make your own for optimal taste.
• Bold Bean Overlook: Forgetting to rinse canned beans can add excess sodium. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them to your recipe.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta Fazool in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1–2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Pasta Fazool, this section should help clear things up.

What is Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)?

Pasta Fazool is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, perfect for a comforting meal.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or small shells.

How do I make Pasta Fazool vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables or use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What are some good toppings for Pasta Fazool?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or additional parsley can enhance flavor. You might also consider adding a drizzle of olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fazool is not only delicious but also versatile! This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give it a try; you’ll love its comforting warmth!