Delicious Recipe

If you are craving a warm bowl of soul-soothing comfort, this Delicious Recipe for Pasta Fagioli is sure to steal your heart. Bursting with rich flavors from hearty ground beef, tender vegetables, and a medley of beans, all entwined with comforting ditalini pasta and a splash of herbs, this Italian classic serves up genuine homestyle goodness in every spoonful. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or feeding a lively crowd, this recipe fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings a satisfying, rustic charm to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Delicious Recipe is a breeze because all the ingredients are simple, yet each plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures. From the savory ground beef to the fresh kale, every element builds layers of taste and color that make this dish unforgettable.

• Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base to gently sauté the vegetables and beef.
• Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that deepens the flavor.
• Celery: Delivers a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness.
• Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
• Ground beef: Infuses rich, meaty heartiness essential for comfort.
• Garlic: Packs a pungent, savory punch that wakes up the palate.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that defines the classic Italian profile.
• Salt and black pepper: Season perfectly to highlight all flavors.
• Dried basil and oregano: Add earthy herbal notes with a Mediterranean flair.
• Red pepper flakes: Provide a subtle heat to balance the richness.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, light soup base without overpowering.
• Crushed tomatoes: Offer a robust, tangy depth and luscious texture.
• Canned kidney beans and cannellini beans: Bring hearty creaminess and protein-packed nutrition.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Enhance freshness with juicy bursts.
• Sugar: Balances acidity from the tomatoes gently.
• Ditalini pasta: Perfect little pasta tubes that soak up the broth beautifully.
• Kale: Adds a vibrant green color and a boost of healthy greens.
• Fresh parsley: Garnishes with bright herbal freshness.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish.

How to Make Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrots, cooking until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns evenly—this base lays down the deep, meaty flavor foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Infuse with Herbs and Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Let these aromatics mingle with the beef and veggies over the heat for about a minute. This step really wakes up the kitchen and builds those signature Pasta Fagioli flavors.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Beans to Simmer

Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and a pinch of sugar. Stir well to combine everything, then bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes—this allows all the ingredients to marry beautifully, thickening the broth and softening the veggies.

Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta

While the soup simmers, prepare the pasta separately according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Drain once al dente and set aside. Cooking pasta separately keeps it perfectly tender and ready to absorb just the right amount of soup without becoming mushy.

Step 5: Add Greens and Combine

After the soup has simmered and the vegetables soften, stir in the shredded kale and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the greens wilt deliciously. Now, mix the cooked pasta directly into the soup if you plan to serve immediately. Otherwise, keep the pasta separate to maintain the perfect texture when storing leftovers.

How to Serve Delicious Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t skip the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese! A sprinkle of chopped parsley brings a bright pop of color and herby freshness, while grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that elevates each spoonful to pure comfort.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. The bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the luscious broth, turning your meal into a full, cozy feast. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast if you want some greens on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

To wow your friends and family, serve this Delicious Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming touch. Ladling the soup into wide, shallow bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a Parmesan crisp can create an elegant yet inviting presentation that feels like a warm Italian hug.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the pasta from becoming soggy, it’s best to keep the pasta separate from the soup and combine just before reheating.

Freezing

This pasta and bean soup freezes well but avoid freezing it with the pasta mixed in. Freeze the soup base alone in portions, and then cook fresh pasta when ready to enjoy. This method preserves the texture and flavor beautifully.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water. Add the cooked pasta last to warm through without overcooking, ensuring every bite stays perfectly tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo will work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so they don’t get too soft.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to boost the heartiness.

How long does Pasta Fagioli last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored, leftovers will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. Just remember to keep pasta separate if possible to maintain the best texture upon reheating.

Can this Pasta Fagioli be frozen after cooking?

You can freeze the soup base without pasta for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and cook fresh pasta to combine before serving for the best taste and texture.

What is the best way to thicken Pasta Fagioli?

If you like your soup thicker, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also mash a small amount of beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in to add body naturally.

Final Thoughts

Whenever you need a dish that feels like a warm and hearty hug, this Delicious Recipe for Pasta Fagioli is your go-to. It’s approachable, packed with flavors and textures, and easy enough to make any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this fantastic taste of Italy with your loved ones!