Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

A delicious and hearty bowl of Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) is perfect for any occasion! This one-pot meal combines savory flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to comfort food that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for something filling on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to impress. With its rich taste and simple preparation, Pasta Fazool stands out as an easy yet satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and beans, this dish provides essential nutrients while being incredibly filling.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! You can easily swap in different beans or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy less cleanup with this easy one-pot meal that cooks everything together.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Cooking Pasta Fazool is simple when you have the right tools. Ensure you have these essentials ready before starting your culinary adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups and stews; its heavy bottom ensures even cooking.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving time during prep.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring a smooth cooking process.

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

• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 15 ounces fire roasted tomatoes (do not drain)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning

For the Pasta & Beans

• 1 cup dry pasta (I use ditalini)
• 15 ounces red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

Seasoning & Garnish

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

How to Make Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Follow these simple steps to create your comforting bowl of Pasta Fazool.

Step 1: Cook the Meat

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat remaining 2 Tbs olive oil in the Dutch oven. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until veggies are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add garlic and cook, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken stock, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, cooked meat, and ditalini pasta into the pot.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover with lid, and let simmer while stirring occasionally for about 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender and pasta is cooked.

Step 6: Add Beans

Stir in kidney beans and cannellini beans. Cook for a few minutes to heat through.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your hearty Pasta Fazool!

How to Serve Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pasta Fazool is a hearty dish that can stand on its own, but serving it alongside complementary items can elevate the meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Add Fresh Bread

• A crusty baguette or focaccia pairs perfectly with Pasta Fazool, allowing you to soak up the savory broth.

Include a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

Top with Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread is an excellent choice for dipping into the soup, adding a delightful crunch and taste.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors in Pasta Fazool.

Pair with a Light White Wine Vinegar Drink

• A refreshing drink made with sparkling water and a splash of white wine vinegar can cleanse your palate between bites.

How to Perfect Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

To make your Pasta Fazool truly shine, consider these helpful tips for perfecting this comforting dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality broth will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more Italian seasoning or even red pepper flakes for extra heat.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente before adding it to the pot.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.

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 – A classic choice that adds buttery goodness and complements the savory soup beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil tossed in olive oil make for a refreshing counterbalance.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with the dish’s richness.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of Pasta Fazool.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide additional substance and flavor variety.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds color and nutrients while bringing a nice crunch.
7. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters are not only tasty but also add a fun texture to your meal.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges – Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying side that’s always popular.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pasta Fazool, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables before adding liquids can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always cook your onions, carrots, and celery until softened.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Add the pasta during the last stages of cooking to ensure it stays al dente.

• Ignoring Bean Preparation: Failing to drain and rinse canned beans can result in an overly salty dish. Always rinse your beans before adding them to the pot for a cleaner taste.

• Not Tasting for Seasoning: It’s essential to taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality tomato sauce or stock can drastically change the final dish. Opt for fresh or high-quality ingredients to enhance your Pasta Fazool.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl at medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)?

Pasta Fazool, known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans. It’s comforting and nutritious!

Can I customize my Pasta Fazool?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini and swap out beans based on your preferences.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pasta Fazool, simply replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What type of pasta works best in Pasta Fazool?

Ditalini is traditional, but you can also use small shells or elbow macaroni if you prefer.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned ones?

Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak and cook them beforehand as they take longer than canned beans.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fazool is a delightful one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week!