When the chill of autumn begins to settle in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of my Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli simmering on the stove. This delightful one-pot dish marries the rich flavors of ground beef, hearty beans, and tender pasta in a savory tomato broth that warms the soul. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around you like a warm blanket after a long day.
I came across this recipe during a casual dinner with friends, and it quickly became a household staple. Not only is it satisfyingly delicious, but it’s also a breeze to whip up in just about 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it promises a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to spice up your cooking routine, this Italian Pasta Fagioli will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get started on this comforting journey!
Why is Italian Pasta Fagioli a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal, perfect for chilly nights.
Easy Preparation: Just one pot is all you need, making cleanup a breeze.
Rich Flavor Profile: Ground beef mingles with savory beans for an unforgettable taste experience.
Time-Saving: Ready in just 40 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights!
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters – everyone will want a bowl.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt it for vegetarians or enhance it with additional veggies for a nutritious boost.
Italian Pasta Fagioli Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful world of comfort food with these essential ingredients.
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables; substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and a savory base; can be swapped for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots if unavailable.
- Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; fresh or frozen options work well.
- Celery – Provides crunch and flavor; can be replaced with bell peppers for a different taste.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor significantly; fresh minced garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be a substitute.
- Italian Seasoning – Offers a blend of herbs for authenticity; use fresh herbs like basil and oregano if desired.
For the Rich Broth
- Tomato Paste – Adds richness and depth to the broth; you can use fresh tomatoes as a substitute.
- Tomato Sauce – Creates the soup base; both canned and homemade options are suitable.
- Diced Tomatoes – Offers texture and a chunky element; substitute with fresh tomatoes if in season.
For the Beans
- Cannellini Beans – Adds creaminess and nutrition; can substitute with navy beans or chickpeas.
- Dark Red Kidney Beans – Provides another layer of protein and fiber; any canned beans will work as substitutes.
For the Pasta
- Chicken Stock – Forms the soup’s body; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
- Ditalini Pasta – Offers a fun shape; small macaroni can be substituted if unavailable.
For Seasoning and Garnish
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish to taste.
- Grated Parmesan – Used for garnish, adding a savory finish; nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley – Provides freshness and color; can be omitted if not available.
How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli
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Heat Oil: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. This will set the stage for your flavorful base.
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Brown Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, using a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot once it’s no longer pink.
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Sauté Veggies: Lower the heat and toss in the yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften beautifully.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, dark red kidney beans, chicken stock, and the cooked beef. Add the uncooked ditalini pasta. Stir it all together and season further with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes or until the pasta is tender yet firm.
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Taste and Serve: Give it a final taste to adjust the seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley for that extra burst of flavor.
Optional: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors wonderfully!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Pasta Fagioli?
Create a delightful meal by pairing this comforting soup with perfect sides and drinks that elevate your dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up the savory broth, making each bite of Pasta Fagioli even more enjoyable.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it complements the rich flavors of the soup while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds a bright contrast, balancing the heartiness with crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
- Parmesan Crisps: These light, cheesy bites offer a satisfying crunch and a salty kick to enhance your comforting bowl of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they bring warmth and depth to your meal, showcasing seasonal goodies.
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or a medium-bodied red wine will harmonize beautifully with the dish, enhancing the rich flavor profile.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate between bites while adding a splash of citrus brightness.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, complemented by rich coffee flavors that echo the hearty dish.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli in advance is a fantastic way to save time during your busy week! You can chop the onion, carrots, and celery up to 3 days ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. When it’s time to serve, combine the prepped vegetables and meat, add the remaining ingredients, and simmer to perfection. This not only enhances the flavors but also ensures that your dish is just as delicious and comforting, ready in a fraction of the time!
Italian Pasta Fagioli Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting recipe that can be tailored to suit your taste!
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ground beef and use a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty alternative.
Swap the beef for a blend of shiitake and cremini mushrooms for an earthy flavor that’s just as satisfying. -
Extra Greens: Throw in some zucchini or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
The added vibrancy from these veggies will make your dish even more colorful and wholesome! -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the mix for an exciting heat level.
Just a pinch or two will awaken your taste buds, transforming this comforting dish into a spicy delight. -
Herbal Infusion: Swap out Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil and oregano to elevate the flavor.
Fresh herbs bring brightness, making every spoonful feel like spring in a bowl. -
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving for a richer broth.
This addition will create a luxurious texture, making your Italian Pasta Fagioli even more indulgent! -
Substitute Pasta: If ditalini isn’t available, use small macaroni or shells instead.
These shapes will still provide that enjoyable bite, ensuring each bowl is filled with playful texture. -
Savory Cheese: Top with crumbled feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist.
The salty notes of feta will complement the richness of the broth and create a delightful contrast. -
Bean Variation: Mix up the beans by using black beans or chickpeas for distinct flavors and textures.
Experimenting with different beans not only changes the taste but also adds nutritional variety!
Expert Tips for Italian Pasta Fagioli
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Perfect Pasta: Don’t overcook the ditalini pasta; it should be al dente to maintain a pleasant texture in your Italian Pasta Fagioli.
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Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper incrementally while cooking; over-salting can overwhelm the freshness of your ingredients.
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Storage Know-How: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; this dish tastes even better the next day!
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Enhance Flavor: Consider finishing the dish with a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a bright, tangy contrast to the rich broth.
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Vegetarian Option: To make this Italian Pasta Fagioli a vegetarian delight, simply omit the beef and replace it with mushrooms or lentils for added flavor and nutrition.
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Add Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost without changing the flavor profile.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Pasta Fagioli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Italian Pasta Fagioli in portions for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before sealing in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock to restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: You can make this dish a day ahead; the flavors deepen as they sit, creating an even heartier meal when you’re ready to serve.
Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe FAQs
What type of beans are best for Pasta Fagioli?
I love using cannellini beans and dark red kidney beans for rich flavors and creamy textures. Cannellini beans give a smooth feel, while kidney beans add a slight bite. However, feel free to swap them out for whatever canned beans you have on hand!
How should I store leftovers of Italian Pasta Fagioli?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your meal even more delightful!
Can I freeze Italian Pasta Fagioli, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Italian Pasta Fagioli, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can store it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking!
What if my Pasta Fagioli turns out too thick?
No problem at all! If your Pasta Fagioli is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of chicken stock or water over low heat. This will help reach your desired consistency without compromising the flavor.
Can I use whole grain pasta instead of ditalini?
Very much! Whole grain pasta can be a wonderful alternative, adding extra nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole grain pasta may take longer to cook and could change the texture slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Always check the ingredient labels! While this Italian Pasta Fagioli is naturally nut-free, those with gluten allergies can substitute with gluten-free pasta. Substituting chicken stock with vegetable broth also accommodates vegetarians and vegans!
Warm Up with This Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it warm up.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, using a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot once it's no longer pink.
- Lower the heat and toss in the yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, dark red kidney beans, chicken stock, and the cooked beef. Add the uncooked ditalini pasta. Stir it all together and season further with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Give it a final taste to adjust the seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley.