Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli on a chilly evening. This Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender pasta, creamy beans, and a rich tomato broth. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This dish stands out due to its wholesome ingredients and robust flavors, making it a satisfying choice for anyone looking for a delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients that are easy to find, this dish is not only tasty but also affordable.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is nourishing while still being hearty.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without spilling, ensuring even heating.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring soups without scratching your cookware while providing good control.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 medium carrot (diced)
• 1 celery stalk (diced)

For the Beans and Broth

• 1 can (15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz red kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14.5 oz diced tomatoes)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

For the Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta shape)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
• Crusty bread for dipping

How to Make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the cannellini beans, red kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add ditalini pasta along with oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Hearty Pasta Fagioli is an essential part of the experience, enhancing its comforting qualities. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Extra Oregano: A pinch of dried oregano can add an aromatic touch that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal with garlic bread for a flavorful twist.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offer freshly grated Parmesan for guests to sprinkle on their servings, adding a creamy texture.
• Vegan Cheese Alternative: For those seeking plant-based options, consider using a vegan cheese topping.

As a Main Dish

• Serving in Bowls: Present the soup in warm bowls for a cozy dining experience.
• Garnished with Olive Oil: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each bowl before serving for added richness.

How to Perfect Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Hearty Pasta Fagioli involves attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality broth—homemade or store-bought—to create a richer flavor base.
• Al Dente Pasta: Cook pasta separately until al dente and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables when possible; they improve the taste and texture of the soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings as you cook; this ensures balanced flavors throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Pasta Fagioli can enhance the meal’s overall enjoyment. Consider these delicious options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and complement the flavors of the pasta fagioli nicely.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer brightness alongside the soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers creates a delightful appetizer spread.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a filling side that pairs well with soup.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft, herb-infused focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last drop of broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables first can lead to a bland soup. Always start by cooking your onions, garlic, and other veggies in olive oil to enhance their flavors.

• Using Cold Broth: Adding cold broth can slow down the cooking process. Make sure your broth is at room temperature or heated before adding it to the pot for a quicker cook time.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early, it will become mushy. Add ditalini pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in a dull taste. Salt and pepper should be adjusted throughout cooking, not just at the end.

• Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like basil or parsley can diminish the flavor profile. Always add these as garnishes just before serving for a burst of freshness.

• Not Allowing for Resting Time: Serving immediately may not give flavors enough time to meld. Letting your soup sit for a few minutes enhances its taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Hearty Pasta Fagioli can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, approximately 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe that might help clarify your preparation:

Can I customize my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

What type of beans work best in this recipe?

Cannellini beans and red kidney beans are traditional choices, but you can use any type of canned beans you have on hand.

Is there a vegetarian option for this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! Just replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version that’s equally delicious.

How long does it take to make this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! Any small pasta shape will work well; ditalini is traditional but feel free to experiment with what you have available.

Final Thoughts

The Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Whether enjoyed on chilly evenings or shared with friends at gatherings, this soup is always a hit. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!

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Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up your evenings with this delightful Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a comforting Italian soup that’s sure to satisfy. Packed with tender pasta, creamy beans, and a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. In just 45 minutes, you can create a hearty meal that’s not only delicious but also budget-friendly and customizable to fit your taste. Add extra vegetables or adjust the spice level for a personal touch. Serve it hot with crusty bread and fresh herbs for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 medium carrot (diced)
• 1 celery stalk (diced)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta shape)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
• Crusty bread for dipping

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in cannellini beans, red kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable or chicken broth; bring to a boil.
3. Add ditalini pasta along with oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is tender (10–12 minutes).
4. Serve in bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley. Pair with crusty bread for dipping.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 0mg