One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

One Pot Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe combines ground beef, ditalini pasta, and a rich broth, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With each spoonful, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal that’s not only filling but also packed with nutrients. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a savory flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of beans.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious taste and appealing texture, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Pot Pasta e Fagioli, gather your cooking essentials. Having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and allows enough space to combine all ingredients comfortably.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency in your prep work.
• Knife: A good quality knife makes chopping quick and easy, saving you time during preparation.

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Ingredients

To recreate the comforting flavors of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli at home, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup onion
• 1 cup celery
• 1 cup carrot
• 1 tablespoon garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the Broth

• 3 cans beef broth (14.5 ounces each)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 can kidney beans (15.5 ounces)
• 1 can cannellini beans (15.5 ounces)

How to Make One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Chop the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic to set up for cooking.

Step 2: Rinse Beans

Rinse and drain both cans of beans to remove excess sodium before adding them to your dish.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to break up the meat. If using non-lean ground beef, drain excess fat after browning.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until they soften. Then reduce heat to medium and add garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and ditalini pasta. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 7 minutes.

Step 6: Add Beans

After simmering for 7 minutes, stir in the rinsed beans. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender—about 5–8 more minutes—stirring occasionally.

Enjoy your homemade One Pot Pasta e Fagioli! Serve it hot as a hearty main course or appetizer that everyone will love.

How to Serve One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Serving One Pot Pasta e Fagioli is simple, and there are many delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread for a flavorful crunch that complements the soup.
• Crusty Italian Bread – A slice of crusty Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for added flavor and creaminess.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melt mozzarella in the bowl for a deliciously gooey experience.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and a crunchy texture alongside the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad – Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.

With Extra Beans

• Additional Cannellini Beans – For more protein and texture, consider adding extra cannellini beans right before serving.
• Chickpeas – Toss in some chickpeas for an additional layer of flavor and nutrition.

How to Perfect One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting One Pot Pasta e Fagioli is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold Seasoning – Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten up the flavors.
• Proper Cooking Time – Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
• Quality Broth – Choose high-quality beef broth for a richer flavor profile that enhances the overall dish.
• Vegetable Variations – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with One Pot Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic make an irresistible accompaniment.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your table.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella create a refreshing side that pairs well.
4. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, cheese, and cured meats offers a taste of Italy alongside your soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Stuffed bell peppers with rice or quinoa provide an additional hearty option.
6. Crispy Polenta Fries – Serve polenta fries for a unique twist that adds crunch to your meal.
7. Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy, zucchini noodles can serve as a fun alternative side dish.
8. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes and fresh basil, bruschetta makes an excellent starter before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or water can result in a soupy texture instead of a hearty dish. Measure your liquids carefully.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef before adding other ingredients can lead to a bland flavor. Always brown meat first for depth in taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions and check the pasta a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Store-bought broth can vary in saltiness. Taste your dish as it cooks and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Forgetting to rinse beans: Not rinsing canned beans can introduce excess sodium and affect flavor. Always rinse and drain beans before use.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• This dish stays good for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One Pot Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add to a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing One Pot Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for One Pot Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a hearty meal while being lower in fat.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Ditalini pasta is traditional, but you can also use small macaroni or shells if preferred.

How do I make One Pot Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Can I add more vegetables to my One Pot Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with One Pot Pasta e Fagioli?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Pasta e Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!