Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes) is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This hearty Italian soup features the perfect combination of pasta and beans, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or cozy lunches. With its rich tomato-based broth and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from stovetop to table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, beans, and pasta, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes for a personalized touch.
• Flavorful Broth: The combination of diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and spices creates a rich, savory broth that enhances every bite.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can create a delicious meal effortlessly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline your preparation. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups; it distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife speeds up chopping vegetables efficiently, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of herbs and spices guarantee balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is a traditional Italian soup that combines the richness of pasta and the heartiness of beans. Key ingredients include pasta (such as small shells or ditalini), red and white kidney beans, a flavorful tomato-based broth, and aromatic herbs like oregano and parsley.

For the Soup:

• 1-1/2 Tsp Olive Oil
• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 6 Oz Onion, Chopped
• 7 Oz Carrots, Slivered
• 7 Oz Celery, Diced
• 24 Oz Canned Diced Tomatoes
• 2 Cups Red Kidney Beans, Cooked
• 2 Cups White Kidney Beans, Cooked
• 44 Oz Beef Stock
• 1-1/2 Tsp Oregano
• 1-1/4 Tsp Fresh Black Pepper
• 1 Tbsp Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley
• 1 Tsp Tabasco-Type Hot Sauce
• 24 Oz Marinara Sauce

For the Pasta:

• 4 Oz Dry Small Pasta (Shells, Elbows, Ditalini, Or Other)

How to Make Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

Step 1: Heat the Pot

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1-1/2 teaspoons of olive oil.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook and stir until browned. Break up into small crumbles as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in 6 ounces of chopped onion, 7 ounces of slivered carrots, and 7 ounces of diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes

Add 24 ounces of canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Mix in Beans

Add 2 cups each of cooked red kidney beans and white kidney beans (rinsed and drained) to the pot.

Step 6: Combine Stock

Pour in 44 ounces of beef stock and stir everything together.

Step 7: Season the Soup

Season with 1-1/2 teaspoons of oregano and 1-1/4 teaspoons of fresh black pepper (adjust to taste). Stir to incorporate seasonings.

Step 8: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes for flavors to meld together.

Step 9: Add Finishing Touches

Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley and add in 1 teaspoon of Tabasco-type hot sauce (adjust to taste).

Step 10: Incorporate Marinara Sauce

Add in 24 ounces of marinara sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 11: Cook Pasta Separately

In another pot, cook 4 ounces of dry small pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 12: Combine Pasta with Soup

Add the cooked pasta to the soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes so pasta absorbs flavors.

Step 13: Final Taste Adjustments

Taste your soup! Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt, black pepper, or hot sauce according to preference.

Step 14: Serve Hot

Ladle Pasta e Fagioli soup into bowls. Serve hot with optional garnishes like chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

Serving your Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this hearty soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with the tomato base.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread on the side for those who enjoy a bit of extra flavor.

Topped With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to each bowl.
• Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, consider topping with a plant-based cheese alternative.

How to Perfect Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli can elevate its flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and broth for richer flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer than 30 minutes if possible; this enhances the depth of flavor.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Select small pasta shapes that will hold up well in the broth without becoming mushy.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance; it often tastes better the next day as flavors meld together.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like herbs or cheese; they add visual appeal and enhance taste.

Best Side Dishes for Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing contrast.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, or quinoa provide a hearty companion.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables offers variety and flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and complement the soup’s warmth beautifully.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of Pasta e Fagioli well.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic pair wonderfully for dipping into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to help you achieve the best results:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Start with room temperature ingredients for even cooking. Cold ingredients can lower the cooking temperature and affect texture.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta separately until al dente. Adding overcooked pasta will make your soup mushy.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. The flavors may need enhancing after simmering.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness. Add them at the end for maximum flavor impact rather than cooking them too long.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Letting the soup simmer is crucial for flavor development. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh.

Freezing Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may clarify your cooking process.

Can I use different beans in my Pasta e Fagioli?

Yes! While traditional recipes use red and white kidney beans, feel free to experiment with other beans like cannellini or chickpeas.

How do I make my soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, mash some of the beans before adding them or add more pasta during cooking.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator or freeze it as instructed above.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes) is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out proteins based on what you have on hand. Give it a try—your friends and family will love it!