Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty dish that combines pasta and beans in a delicious broth. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or any occasion when you need a warm bowl of goodness. Its rich flavor and simple preparation make it a favorite among families. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal or a cozy comfort food option, Easy Pasta e Fagioli ticks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from beans and ground beef, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this flavorful soup, making it a great choice for everyone at the table.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your perfect Easy Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and allows for plenty of room to stir your ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat while cooking and stirring ingredients gently without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make Easy Pasta e Fagioli.

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Ingredients

For the Meat and Broth

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Pasta and Beans

• 3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
• 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 14 oz can red kidney beans drained
• 1 14 oz can cannellini beans or great northern beans drained
• 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with juices

For the Vegetables

• 3 sticks celery chopped finely
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled & chopped finely
• 2 teaspoons garlic minced

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional (or add more to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Place the beef in a soup pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s just browned. You may choose not to drain the fat for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook for another 8-10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, canned beans, chicken broth, red apple vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce heat and let the soup simmer partially covered for 15-20 minutes. This helps develop rich flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta to the soup. Continue to simmer until it’s tender—about 15-20 minutes—while keeping the lid slightly ajar. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you plan on having leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it when serving.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Easy Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Easy Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this hearty dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic flavor boost.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread on the side for a classic pairing that complements the soup.
• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can provide a nice contrast to the warm soup.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar adds freshness.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Ricotta Dollop: Add a dollop of ricotta on top for creaminess and richness.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta e Fagioli

To make your Easy Pasta e Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs when possible; they can enhance the overall taste.
• Layer Your Ingredients: Sauté vegetables slowly to develop their flavors before adding liquids.
• Adjust Consistency: If it gets too thick, add extra chicken broth or water for your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always sample your soup while cooking; adjust seasonings to your preference.
• Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, store pasta separately from the soup to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Easy Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this Italian classic:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery knots infused with garlic flavor are perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a delightful appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains and vegetables make a filling companion.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides variety and interest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Pasta e Fagioli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not cooking the vegetables properly can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté the onion, celery, and carrots to develop their flavors before adding other ingredients.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Cook the pasta separately if you plan to have leftovers, and mix it in just before serving.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Forgetting to season during cooking can leave your dish flat. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper accordingly to enhance its flavor.

• Ignoring Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from melding. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for the best taste.

• Overlooking Texture: Adding all ingredients at once can lead to uneven texture. Layer your ingredients, starting with aromatics followed by liquids and beans for an optimal mouthfeel.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Easy Pasta e Fagioli

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

Reheating Easy Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Easy Pasta e Fagioli that might help you during your cooking journey.

Can I make Easy Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with a plant-based alternative or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does Easy Pasta e Fagioli last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What type of pasta should I use?

Ditalini is traditional for this recipe, but you can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells if preferred.

Can I add more vegetables to Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What’s a good side dish with Easy Pasta e Fagioli?

A fresh salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty soup.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta e Fagioli is a deliciously hearty dish that showcases rich flavors while being comforting and filling. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Give it a try—your family will love it!