Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli is classic, Italian comfort food that warms the soul. This hearty soup combines savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion—whether a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: Packed with beans, vegetables, and spices, each bowl offers a burst of comforting Italian flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, you can serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from the beans and nutrients from fresh vegetables, it’s both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences—add more veggies or try different types of pasta!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking this Classic Pasta e Fagioli even easier. With just a few essential kitchen items, you’re ready to create this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing ample space for all ingredients to blend nicely.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for quick prep work when dicing onions and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 4 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (finely diced)
• 5 teaspoons minced garlic (about 5 cloves)

For the Broth

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 (15 ounce cans) diced tomatoes

For the Beans

• 1 (15 ounce can) red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (15 ounce can) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Pasta and Garnish

• 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in 1 pound ground Italian sausage. Use a large spoon to break it up and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Dice 1 medium yellow onion along with 4 medium carrots and 4 medium celery ribs into similarly sized pieces as the onion. Add these to the pot with the cooked sausage. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 7 to 10 minutes while stirring frequently. Add in 5 teaspoons minced garlic during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in 4 cups beef broth along with 2 cans of diced tomatoes. Drain and rinse both bean cans thoroughly to remove extra starch before adding them to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Add in 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until pasta is al dente, which should take about 7 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve hot in bowls garnished generously with chopped fresh basil (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional salt and pepper according to taste.

Enjoy your Classic Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten the dish and add freshness.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: The tanginess complements the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal with buttery garlic bread for dipping.

Add Extra Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken slices on top for extra protein.
• Turkey Meatballs: Serve turkey meatballs on the side for a heartier meal.

Create a Salad Side

• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens balances the soup’s richness.
• Caesar Salad: Traditional Caesar salad pairs well with the flavors of Pasta e Fagioli.

How to Perfect Classic Pasta e Fagioli

To make sure your Classic Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes before serving can help meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans to find your favorite combination.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Serving side dishes alongside Classic Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots coated in garlic and herbs make an irresistible accompaniment.
2. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add flavor and nutrition while complementing the soup.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting addition to your meal.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a light and flavorful option.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add a hearty side that pairs well with pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables with the sausage can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them together until softened for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture in your soup.
• Using low-quality broth: A weak broth results in a bland soup. Opt for high-quality beef broth to enhance the overall flavor of your Classic Pasta e Fagioli.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can leave your dish flat. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Not rinsing beans: Rinsing canned beans removes excess starch and improves texture. Always drain and rinse beans to avoid a gummy soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Classic Pasta e Fagioli that might help you while cooking.

How do I make Classic Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

You can substitute ground meat with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely. Adding more beans and vegetables will keep it hearty.

Can I use different types of beans in Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can mix different beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

What makes Classic Pasta e Fagioli a comfort food?

Its rich flavors, warmth, and heartiness make it perfect for cozy meals during colder months.

How do I customize my Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. Its comforting nature makes it suitable for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust spices for a unique twist. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!