Pasta Fagioli

Transform your ordinary soup into a hearty, soul-warming experience with this Pasta Fagioli that promises to transport you straight to an Italian grandmother's kitchen. Imagine a rich, flavorful soup packed with tender beans, vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta that hugs you from the inside out.

This recipe combines the ultimate comfort food elements two types of beans, savory vegetables, and delicate ditalini pasta into one irresistible dish. Moreover, the combination of herbs and optional meat creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you're craving a hearty meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Pasta Fagioli: A Rustic Italian Soup Sensation

This isn't just another soup recipe it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The combination of cannellini and kidney beans creates a dish that's both comforting and incredibly satisfying.

Get ready to discover how a few carefully selected ingredients can create a meal that tastes like it simmered all day.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Pasta Fagioli shines when served with:

• Crusty Italian bread
• Garlic bread
• Green salad
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs for garnish

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta Fagioli:

Bean Preparation: Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium.

Pasta Technique: Cook ditalini separately to prevent mushiness.

Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor if possible.

Meat Option: Choose between ground beef or Italian sausage.

Make-Ahead Magic: Tastes even better the next day.

Pasta Fagioli Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: Large pot, separate pasta pot, cutting board

This Pasta Fagioli brings together the best of Italian comfort food in one irresistible soup.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions:

1. Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If using meat, carefully add ground beef or sausage and cook until it browns beautifully.
2. Remove any excess grease from the meat, leaving behind just enough for flavor. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
3. Sauté the vegetables for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and start to release their aromatic flavors.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini and kidney beans.
6. Sprinkle in the oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a rich, deep taste.
8. While the soup simmers, cook the ditalini pasta in a separate pot until it's just al dente. Drain and set aside.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Ready to Relish!

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The soup should be steaming and inviting, with a perfect balance of beans, pasta, and rich broth.

Storage Solutions:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop
• Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore consistency
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Pasta Fagioli delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction in every single spoonful.

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