Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This Classic Pasta e Fagioli is not only quick to prepare but also filled with robust flavors from fresh ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this hearty soup features savory sausage, nutritious beans, and tender pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of Italian goodness that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: A combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and vegetables, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather your essential tools before starting. Having everything on hand will ensure you have an enjoyable cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of onions, carrots, and celery.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy without spilling.

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)

Seasonings

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

For the Pasta

• 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta

Garnish (Optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 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 while cooking until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Dice 1 medium yellow onion and finely dice 4 medium carrots along with 4 medium celery ribs into similar sizes as the onion. Add them to the pot with the sausage. Cook until softened and sausage is cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently. Add 5 teaspoons minced garlic during the last minute 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—red kidney beans and cannellini beans—then add them to your pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot! Garnish generously with chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and additional salt or pepper if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Classic Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful soup that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a few extras, serving this dish can elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors and adds crunch.

Garnish Creatively

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over each bowl for a savory finish.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances richness and flavor.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad: This classic side adds creaminess and crunch to your meal.

How to Perfect Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your Classic Pasta e Fagioli is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality broth elevates the soup’s flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook pasta al dente separately, then add it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure the right balance of salt and spices.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Pasta e Fagioli

When enjoying Classic Pasta e Fagioli, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some wonderful options:

1. Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlicky bites are perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your table.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a crispy texture.
5. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats (like turkey), olives, and cheese offers a savory start to your meal.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with the soup’s savory notes, adding a comforting element.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy in the soup. Add it towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on it until it’s al dente.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key flavor component. Opt for high-quality beef or vegetable broth to enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are cut similarly for uniform textures and flavors.
• Omitting garnishes: Garnishes like fresh basil and Parmesan cheese add brightness and depth. Don’t skip them—add them just before serving for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, pasta may change texture upon reheating.

Reheating Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with beans, pasta, vegetables, and sometimes meat, creating a hearty meal that is both comforting and filling.

How can I customize Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Experiment with different types of beans or even add cooked chicken or turkey instead of sausage.

Can I make Classic Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth while keeping all other ingredients intact.

How long does it take to make Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

This delightful soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight meal option.

Final Thoughts

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is not just a comforting dish; it is also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe offers warmth and satisfaction that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try today!