Pasta Fagioli Soup

A warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup is the perfect comfort for any occasion. This hearty and budget-friendly bean and pasta soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this one-pot recipe can easily be tailored to your taste with options for vegetarian or sausage variations. Plus, it freezes well, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: With affordable pantry staples, this soup won’t break the bank.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful & Hearty: Packed with beans and pasta, it’s a filling dish that satisfies.
• Versatile Options: Customize with different vegetables or proteins according to your preference.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as they provide even heat distribution.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage without bringing excess grease into the soup.
• Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This section lists all the ingredients you need to make your delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (optional)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Broth and Beans

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Pasta & Garnish

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If using sausage, add it now. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set aside while leaving any drippings behind.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened; this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth & Tomatoes

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with crushed tomatoes. Return the cooked sausage (if using) back into the pot along with rinsed cannellini beans and kidney beans.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions—usually around 8-10 minutes—until al dente.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley on top and serve with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: This cheese enhances the flavor and adds creaminess.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of rustic bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlic-infused bread complements the soup beautifully.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the hearty soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Light, fresh greens with a vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

Additional Proteins

• Grilled Chicken Breast: For extra protein, add sliced grilled chicken on top.
• Turkey Meatballs: These can be served alongside for added heartiness.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup

To create the best Pasta Fagioli Soup, follow these simple tips that ensure rich flavors and perfect texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor profile and texture of the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; don’t hesitate to tweak herbs or add more spices based on your preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer than 15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent it from getting mushy, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make for a delightful pairing.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and flavorful complement.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a crunchy contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrition and flavor.
5. Cheese Quesadillas: These cheesy delights are perfect for dipping into the soup.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with chips or bread adds an indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong kind of beans or pasta can affect the texture and flavor. Stick to cannellini and kidney beans, and ditalini pasta for the best results.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the pasta will lead to mushy soup. Follow package directions for al dente pasta and add it towards the end of cooking.
• Bold seasoning oversight: Forgetting to season can result in bland soup. Always taste your broth before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Bold neglecting broth quality: Low-quality broth can ruin your soup’s flavor. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken or vegetable broth for depth of flavor.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Serving without fresh parsley or cheese diminishes presentation and taste. Always garnish for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow cooling completely before sealing.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian-American dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s comforting and nutritious.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also adjust herbs according to your taste preferences.

Is Pasta Fagioli Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from the beans, vitamins from vegetables, and whole grains from the pasta, making it a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only budget-friendly but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!