Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

An Italian favorite, Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a hearty soup that brings comfort and warmth to any table. This dish combines savory sausage, fresh vegetables, nutritious beans, and pasta in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this soup is budget-friendly and tastes even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and herbs creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it on chilly nights or as a filling lunch. It pairs well with crusty bread for dipping!
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, this recipe helps you create a delectable meal without breaking the bank.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out beans or add more veggies based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather a few essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for making soups as it provides enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface; it also won’t conduct heat.
• Chopping board: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting veggies quick and easy.

Ingredients

To create this delightful soup, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

Oils

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Proteins

• 1 pound mild Italian sausage

Vegetables

• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Sauces and Broths

• 1 24 ounce jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
• 1 quart beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes

Spices

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 15 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed

Garnish

• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large stock pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Once browned, drain off the fat and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the pot. Include the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until the onions are translucent and the veggies begin to soften (about 5–6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the sausage to the pan along with spaghetti sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until veggies are tender (approximately 15–20 minutes).

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, cook ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Drain the pasta and add it to the soup with beans. Allow everything to cook together for a few more minutes. Thin with water if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal time. This hearty soup can be tailored to your taste preferences and made even more enjoyable with the right accompaniments.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and a fresh taste.
• Basil Leaves: A few basil leaves enhance the Italian flavor profile beautifully.

With Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the rich flavors perfectly.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Top each bowl with freshly shaved Parmesan for added creaminess and flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can be added in for a gooey texture that kids will love.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the hearty soup nicely.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightens up the meal while adding freshness and crunch.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Perfecting your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage can make all the difference in flavor and satisfaction. Here are some tips to enhance this delicious dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables intensify the flavors compared to dried or canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify crushed red pepper to your heat preference; add more for a spicier kick or less for mildness.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from soaking up all the broth, keeping it al dente in texture.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a while before serving helps meld the flavors together, making it even tastier.
• Add More Beans: If you want extra protein and fiber, increase the amount of beans used in the recipe.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pasta Fagioli makes for a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup well.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs are perfect for dipping.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic adds freshness to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Combining fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil creates a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide an earthy balance that pairs beautifully with this dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make for a filling and nutritious side.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses offers variety and flavor alongside your soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins add a delightful touch of sweetness that complements savory dishes well.
8. Focaccia Bread: Olive oil-drizzled focaccia adds an aromatic bread option that’s great for soaking up the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage can be simple, but common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong sausage: Choosing a sausage that is too spicy or not flavorful can affect the overall taste. Opt for mild Italian sausage for balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for an al dente finish and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Neglecting to drain beans: Failing to rinse and drain canned beans can introduce excess sodium and alter the soup’s texture. Always rinse your beans thoroughly.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Each broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld: Rushing through cooking times can lead to a less flavorful dish. Letting your soup simmer helps develop richer tastes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish; cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage:

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great substitute! It provides a leaner option while still delivering good flavor.

What type of beans work best?

In addition to kidney and northern beans, you can experiment with cannellini or black beans for different textures and flavors.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth along with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color in your soup.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage recipe offers comfort and heartiness in every bowl. Its flexibility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—swap in different proteins or veggies as desired. Try making this soup today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!