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

Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and hearty Italian soup that combines pasta and beans, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes) brings together rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and simplicity in preparation. It’s suitable for any occasion—whether you need a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests with authentic Italian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from stovetop to table, you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of beef, beans, and aromatic herbs creates a savory broth that warms the soul.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and lean beef, this soup offers a balanced meal without compromising on taste.
• Versatile Options: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta for variety.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe makes eight servings, meaning you’ll have plenty of delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before jumping into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups as it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing ingredients, making your prep work quicker and safer.

Ingredients

A flavorful blend of ingredients comes together in this Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes).

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Beans

• 2 Cups Red Kidney Beans, Cooked
• 2 Cups White Kidney Beans, Cooked

For the Broth and Seasonings

• 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 Oil

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook and stir until browned and cooked through. Break up the beef 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: Incorporate Beans

Add 2 cups each of rinsed red kidney beans and white kidney beans to the pot.

Step 6: Pour in 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 well to incorporate.

Step 8: Simmer

Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Finish with Greenery

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

Step 10: Add Marinara Sauce

Mix in 24 ounces of marinara sauce until well combined.

Step 11: Cook Pasta Separately

In another pot, cook your choice of small pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it before adding to the soup.

Step 12: Combine & Serve

Add cooked pasta to the soup. Simmer for an additional five minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot. Enjoy!

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

Serving your Pasta e Fagioli is just as important as making it. A well-presented bowl can enhance the dining experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving game.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious contrast in textures.
• Sourdough Loaf: A slice of sourdough adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan cheese for guests to sprinkle over their bowls, enhancing flavor.
• Mozzarella Balls: Add small mozzarella balls for an extra creamy texture.

Enjoy with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: This creamy and savory salad pairs perfectly with the hearty soup.

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

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your recipe shines.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality tomatoes and beans will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Start with less seasoning and build up to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer than 30 minutes for richer flavors.
• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for small pasta shapes that hold up well in soup without getting mushy.

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

Complement your Pasta e Fagioli with some delightful side dishes. These choices will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make a light but flavorful side.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a perfect appetizer.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances the meal’s heartiness.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious addition.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and texture.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes) perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a robust soup.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Cook the pasta separately until al dente and add it just before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and hot sauce before serving.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. A rich, flavorful beef stock makes a significant difference. Choose high-quality or homemade options when possible.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allowing the soup to simmer melds all the flavors together. Aim for at least 30 minutes to achieve depth in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish and cover with foil for even heating.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this recipe.

What type of pasta should I use for the Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

You can use small pasta shapes like shells, elbows, or ditalini. These types hold up well in soups.

Can I make a vegetarian version of the Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! Simply replace ground beef with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

How do I customize my Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also adjust spices based on your preference.

How long does it take to prepare the Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for a quick meal.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Stovetop To Your Table In Just 45-Minutes) is both hearty and comforting. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!