Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty Italian soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish combines tender pasta, rich beans, and flavorful vegetables in a savory broth. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or at a family gathering, Easy Pasta e Fagioli is sure to delight everyone at the table. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it both satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a warm and inviting flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it’s great for lunch or dinner.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and vegetables, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun pasta shapes and hearty texture, making it an easy win for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools before starting your Easy Pasta e Fagioli. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the process even more!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and retaining heat.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of ingredients, speeding up prep time.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with juices

For the Vegetables

• 3 sticks celery chopped finely
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled & chopped finely
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced

For the Beans

• 1 14 oz can red kidney beans drained
• 1 14 oz can cannellini beans or great northern beans drained

For Flavoring

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
• 1/2 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional (or add more to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Place the beef in a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s just browned. You may choose not to drain the fat for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook for another 8-10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, canned beans, chicken broth, red apple vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Turn up the heat to high until boiling.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Lower the heat once boiling and let it simmer partially covered for about 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta to the soup and continue simmering until tender, around another 15-20 minutes. Keep the lid slightly ajar and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you plan on leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Easy Pasta e Fagioli! Perfectly filling yet light enough for any meal occasion!

How to Serve Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette on the side for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft pasta and beans.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each bowl for a rich, savory finish.
• Mozzarella – Add shredded mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture that enhances every bite.

With a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – This classic salad adds a crisp contrast and is delicious alongside the warm soup.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Basil – Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley enhances presentation and freshness.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta e Fagioli

To ensure your Easy Pasta e Fagioli turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Browning – Brown the ground beef well to develop rich flavors that enhance the overall soup.
• Adjust Consistency – Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup or cook longer for a thicker consistency.
• Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables for better taste and nutritional value; they can make a noticeable difference.
• Let it Rest – Allow the soup to sit for 10 minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together more effectively.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing your Easy Pasta e Fagioli with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make an excellent accompaniment.
2. Caprese Salad – This refreshing salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a light contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your table.
4. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting starter.
5. Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes offer a delightful texture that pairs well with the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with grains or veggies complement the soup nicely while adding variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are key mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a bland flavor. Always cook it until it’s nicely browned to enhance the taste.

• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté vegetables like onion and garlic can result in a lack of depth in your soup. Take the time to soften them before adding liquids for the best flavor.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long in the soup can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and add it towards the end of cooking for ideal texture.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every broth is different; failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to an unbalanced dish. Always taste before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

• Using canned ingredients without rinsing: Not rinsing canned beans can lead to excess sodium and undesirable flavors. Drain and rinse them thoroughly for a fresher taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat in intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta e Fagioli.

Can I make Easy Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of pasta works best in Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

Ditalini is traditional, but you can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells for variety.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. This comforting soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy a delightful bowl of flavor!