Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Hearty pasta e fagioli soup recipe is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. This Italian classic combines tender pasta with nutritious beans and vibrant vegetables, making it perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week. Its rich taste and hearty texture will satisfy your cravings while also being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of Italian herbs and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Full of beans and veggies, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it’s perfect for any meal.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To create your pasta e fagioli soup, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smoother. These tools help you manage ingredients efficiently and ensure even cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking of soups and stews, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring a smooth mix of ingredients.

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 and Beans

• 2-14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• 15 ounce can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounce can Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 ½ cups V-8 juice

For Seasoning and Pasta

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• parmesan rind (optional)
• 8 ounces dry ditali pasta
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial to develop flavor.

Step 2: Drain Excess Grease

Once browned, drain most of the grease from the pot. Return the beef back to the pot after draining.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Incorporate Seasonings

Add Italian seasoning and dried sweet basil into the pot. Stir well and let it cook for about 30 seconds to enhance their flavors.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, red kidney beans, Great Northern beans, V-8 juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 50 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta Separately

In a separate pot, cook ditali pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain it once cooked.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir the cooked pasta into the soup mixture. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Remove any parmesan rind if used before serving. Top each bowl with grated parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.

Enjoy your hearty pasta e fagioli soup!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving pasta e fagioli soup is a delightful experience. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the broth, making each bite delicious.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. This enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds an extra zing.

Grated Cheese

• Offer grated parmesan cheese for topping. It adds richness and depth to the soup, making it even more satisfying.

Salad on the Side

• A light green salad complements the heartiness of the soup. Consider a simple vinaigrette to balance out the meal.

Served in Bowls

• Use rustic bowls for serving. This creates a cozy atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

To make your pasta e fagioli soup truly exceptional, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors and textures, making your soup more appealing.
• Brown Meat Properly: Browning the ground beef well adds depth to the flavor base of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta al dente separately prevents it from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavor development by melding all ingredients together beautifully.
• Serve Hot: Always serve your pasta e fagioli hot for the best taste and comfort during mealtime.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with pasta e fagioli soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast that complements the warm, savory flavors of the soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs adds a refreshing bite alongside your rich pasta dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance nutrition while adding color and texture to your plate.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light, refreshing side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
6. Cheesy Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits are comforting and perfect for sopping up every last bit of broth in your bowl.
7. Vegetable Platter: A platter of fresh veggies brings crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the soup.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of pasta e fagioli soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a soft texture while still maintaining some crunch.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices can lead to bland soup. Use Italian seasoning and basil generously for flavor depth.
• Using Low-Quality Canned Ingredients: Cheap canned beans or tomatoes may affect the taste. Opt for high-quality brands for better flavor.
• Not Following Pasta Instructions: Cooking pasta too long before adding it to the soup can lead to a soggy texture. Cook it al dente as per package instructions.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze it in airtight containers immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe.

Can I use different types of beans in my Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, based on your preference.

How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini or use different pasta shapes according to your taste.

Is this Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from beans and lean beef, along with plenty of veggies.

What can I serve with my Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth that satisfies!