Pasta Fagioli Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Pasta Fagioli Recipe is just what you need! It’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor. This soup has been a family favorite for years, and I love how it brings everyone together at the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl of goodness.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that it’s just as delightful made on the stove, in the crockpot, or even in an instant pot. Trust me, once you give it a try, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Pasta Fagioli Recipe comes together in just 35 minutes. Perfect for when you’re short on time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good soup! This dish is packed with flavors that both kids and adults will adore.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with healthy components like beans and vegetables, this recipe is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Flavor: The blend of herbs gives this soup a robust taste that will have you craving more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients is part of the fun! For this Pasta Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that might already be in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup quartered carrots
• 2 (15 oz) cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 dried bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta

Variations

One of the best things about this Pasta Fagioli Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
• Swap the Beans: If cannellini beans aren’t your favorite, try using kidney beans or chickpeas instead.
• Change Up the Pasta: Feel free to use any small pasta shape you have lying around—small shells or elbow macaroni work great too!
• Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegan alternative) just before serving for an added depth of flavor.

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent. This step is crucial as it helps develop the base flavors of your soup. Once the onions are soft, toss in the minced garlic and quartered carrots. Cook for another couple of minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Tomatoes

Next, stir in the rinsed cannellini beans and tomato sauce. This combination adds creaminess to your soup while packing it full of protein. Don’t forget to add in the bay leaf along with all your herbs—basil, parsley, oregano—and seasonings like black pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so those wonderful flavors meld.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Water

Now it’s time to pour in your vegetable broth and water. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. As soon as it bubbles away cheerfully, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to develop fully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

After simmering, add in your dry ditalini pasta. Make sure to stir well so nothing sticks together! Let it cook according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes—until al dente.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove from heat and take out that bay leaf! Ladle your delicious Pasta Fagioli into bowls while it’s still warm. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful Pasta Fagioli Recipe! Trust me; each bowl will warm not only your belly but also your heart.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Making the perfect Pasta Fagioli can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your soup to restaurant-quality!

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and vegetables make all the difference in flavor. They add brightness and depth to your dish, ensuring every spoonful bursts with taste.
• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning – The right amount of seasoning helps balance the flavors. Taste as you go and adjust the spices to suit your preference; this soup is all about personal touch!
• Cook Pasta Separately – For the best texture, cook the ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy, allowing for a delightful bite in every bowl.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for a bit longer enhances the flavors. A slow cook melds the ingredients together beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container without the pasta. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess when reheating.

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Pasta Fagioli can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil or Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the soup perfectly.
• Grated Vegan Parmesan Cheese – For those who enjoy a cheesy finish, vegan parmesan provides a rich umami flavor without any animal-derived ingredients.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For spice lovers, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top gives an extra kick and elevates the overall taste experience.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic pairing that’s perfect for dipping into your hearty soup. The buttery garlic flavor complements the dish wonderfully.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of Pasta Fagioli.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables are not only nutritious but also add an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soup’s savory flavors.
• Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide additional heartiness and nutrients while making your meal feel more complete.

Enjoy crafting your Pasta Fagioli Recipe! Each bowl is not just food but a comforting embrace on chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s hearty, filling, and gets better as the flavors meld together over time. You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat in the microwave; just be sure to cover your dish to avoid splatters.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this comforting Pasta Fagioli Recipe!

Can I make this Pasta Fagioli Recipe vegan?

Yes! This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is naturally vegan since it uses vegetable broth and does not contain any animal products. It’s a wholesome choice for everyone!

How long does this Pasta Fagioli Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this pasta fagioli will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to substitute with other beans like kidney or chickpeas based on your preference.

What can I serve with my Pasta Fagioli?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delicious Pasta Fagioli Recipe! It’s not just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and make it your own. I can’t wait for you to experience how comforting and satisfying it is! Happy cooking!