Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make soup, Pasta Fagioli Soup is a must-try. This traditional Italian soup blends pasta, beans, ground beef, and vegetables in a flavorful tomato-based broth, making it a perfect meal for chilly days or anytime you want comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a savory soup ready in no time.
Healthy and Hearty: This soup is packed with proteins from beans and beef, vitamins from vegetables, and fiber-rich pasta.
Family-Friendly: A bowl of Pasta Fagioli is satisfying for both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to feed a crowd, this Pasta Fagioli Soup will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients for Pasta Fagioli Soup

To make a delicious pot of Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef: You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that classic Italian flavor.
2 stalks celery, diced: Provides a slight crunch and freshness.
2 carrots, peeled and diced: Adds sweetness and texture.
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz): A rich tomato base that adds acidity and flavor.
4 cups beef broth: For a rich, savory base. You can also use vegetable broth.
1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz): A good source of protein and fiber.
1 can white beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz): Adds creaminess and thickness.
1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni): For texture and heartiness.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your preference.
Fresh parsley (optional): To garnish and add freshness.
Parmesan cheese (optional): For a touch of richness when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make a perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup in just a few simple steps:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain the excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften. The garlic should become fragrant, and the onions translucent, adding layers of flavor to the soup.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine. This forms the base of the soup, which will simmer and blend all the flavors together.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Seasoning

Next, add the kidney beans and white beans to the pot. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta in a separate pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking the pasta separately ensures it doesn’t become mushy as the soup cooks.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the soup is ready, add the cooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the pasta through. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
Customize the Recipe: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage, or use chickpeas instead of beans if you prefer.
Store for Later: Pasta Fagioli Soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep the pasta separate and add it in when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Freeze for Meal Prep: This soup freezes well, too. Again, freeze without the pasta, and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 350-400
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Pasta Fagioli Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli, follow these steps:

Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop as directed.
Transfer everything except the pasta to a slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Add cooked pasta 30 minutes before serving to avoid it becoming too soft.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale for a vegetarian twist. The beans provide plenty of protein, making it just as filling.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Pasta Fagioli Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re planning to store it, keep the pasta separate and add it when reheating. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

4. What type of pasta works best for Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even small shells are best for this soup. These pasta types soak up the broth without overpowering the other ingredients. If you don’t have these on hand, any small pasta shape will work in a pinch.

5. Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup without the pasta. Once cooled, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Cook fresh pasta to add once the soup is reheated.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that combines the goodness of beans, vegetables, and pasta in a warm, comforting broth. Whether you’re making it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to please. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, filling meal that your family will love.