Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Hearty pasta e fagioli soup recipe is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This versatile soup is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. With its rich blend of beans, vegetables, and lean ground beef, it’s not just filling but also packed with nutrition. The unique combination of seasonings gives this recipe a robust flavor that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as a main course or alongside bread, it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This pasta e fagioli soup recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beans and lean ground beef, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• Flavorful: The blend of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, it suits any dining occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead for easy reheating.

Tools and Preparation

To make this pasta e fagioli soup recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for browning meat and simmering the soup evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients ensures the best flavor balance.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced white or yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped peeled carrot
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ tablespoons dried sweet basil

For the Liquids

• 2-14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 ½ cups V-8 juice

For the Beans

• 15 ounce can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounce can Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Parmesan rind (optional)

For Pasta

• 8 ounces dry ditali pasta

For Serving (Optional)

• Grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat your Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Drain most of the grease before returning the beef to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Stir in the diced onion, chopped carrot, chopped celery, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

1. Add Italian seasoning and dried sweet basil to the pot.
2. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to enhance flavors.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, V-8 juice, drained beans, salt, pepper, and optional parmesan rind.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 50 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

1. In a separate pot, cook ditali pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Soup

1. Stir cooked pasta into the soup mixture.
2. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Serve

1. If you used parmesan rind, remove it before serving.
2. Top each bowl with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your hearty pasta e fagioli soup recipe!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pasta e fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a comforting side, there are plenty of options to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A nice sourdough or ciabatta works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top of the soup just before serving. This adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness complements the richness of the soup.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week. Reheat on the stove for best results.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

To ensure your pasta e fagioli soup turns out delicious every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality canned tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for your preferred flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances its flavors. Aim for at least 50 minutes if you can spare the time.
• Store Properly: If making ahead, store pasta separately to maintain its texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Complement your pasta e fagioli soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter makes a perfect companion for soaking up the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and Caesar dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add both nutrition and flavor to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and herbs provide an extra hearty option alongside the soup.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light appetizer.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers comforting warmth that pairs well with the soup.
7. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can create an inviting starter spread.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add crunchiness that balances the soft texture of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta e fagioli soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always take a few minutes to cook them until soft.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Cook it separately and combine it just before serving.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the taste. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: A thick soup can lack the right texture. Ensure you have enough broth or juice for a well-balanced consistency.
• Neglecting to Simmer: Rushing the simmering process means missing out on rich flavors. Allow your soup to simmer adequately for deeper taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the pasta e fagioli soup recipe that you might find helpful.

What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Pasta e fagioli soup is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and often meat. It’s hearty and comforting.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add various vegetables or substitute different beans according to your preference.

How long does it take to cook Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

The total cooking time is about 65 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for prep time.

Is Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from beans and lean meat, plus vitamins from vegetables, making it a nutritious meal option.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth with additional vegetables for flavor.

Final Thoughts

This hearty pasta e fagioli soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!