Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

The Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting bowl of goodness that captures the essence of Italian cuisine right in your kitchen. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. The blend of beans, pasta, and spices makes it nutritious and filling. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe simplifies mealtime.
• Flavorful: Packed with spices and rich flavors from marinara and fresh herbs, every spoonful delights the palate.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread.
• Nutritious: Filled with beans and vegetables, it offers a healthy dose of protein and fiber in each serving.
• Great Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for days, making it ideal for meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering soups; allows ample space for ingredients to cook evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 2 lb of Italian sausage with no casing (I prefer it spicy!)
• 1 chopped yellow onion
• 2 large sliced carrots
• 3 stalks of thinly sliced celery
• 5 cloves of minced garlic

For the Broth:

• 1 32 oz. container of low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup of water
• 2 Tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 32 oz jar of your favorite marinara sauce (I used Rao’s)
• 2 tsp granulated sugar

For Seasoning:

• 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (season to taste)

For Beans and Pasta:

• 1 16 oz can of red beans
• 1 16 oz can of cannellini beans
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta

For Garnish:

• Parmesan cheese and fresh minced parsley for garnish

How to Make Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over medium-high heat, crumble in the Italian sausage. Cook while stirring until browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Broth Ingredients

Pour in the low-sodium beef broth along with tomato paste, marinara sauce, granulated sugar, fresh basil, dried oregano, and thyme. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Pasta

Add dry ditalini pasta along with water, kidney beans, and cannellini beans to the soup. Continue cooking on low until the pasta reaches al dente texture (about 5 more minutes).

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste your soup before serving; season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle warm soup into bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle fresh parsley over each serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that brings the warmth of Italy right to your dining table. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a complete meal.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Focaccia: Soft and herb-infused focaccia complements the soup’s richness.

Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a light and vibrant side.

Cheese Pairings

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated on top, it enhances the umami flavor of the soup.
• Mozzarella Balls: Small mozzarella balls provide a creamy burst in every bite.

How to Perfect Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli, here are some simple yet effective tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out vibrant flavors compared to dried or canned options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; adjusting salt and pepper can make all the difference in flavor.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately ensures it stays al dente without becoming mushy in the soup.
• Customize Beans: Feel free to mix up bean varieties based on your preferences or what you have on hand for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Complement your delicious Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli with these tasty side dishes that will elevate your meal.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds a fresh touch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with herbs bring depth and nutrition to your plate.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add heartiness alongside the soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates a flavorful starter.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked wedges provide an easy-to-eat side full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of beans: Different beans change the texture and flavor. Stick to red and cannellini beans for authenticity.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure your ditalini is al dente. Cooking it too long can make it mushy, ruining the soup’s consistency.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances all flavors in the dish.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality broth or marinara can impact taste significantly. Opt for good quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: A quick cook won’t allow flavors to meld. Ensure you let it simmer for at least 10 minutes for maximum flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container to keep your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe fresh.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date!

Reheating Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans. This comforting dish is rich in flavor and very filling.

Can I customize my Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or substitute different types of beans according to your preference.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, use plant-based sausage alternatives and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

How long does this recipe take?

The total time for making this dish is approximately 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

The Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices based on your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!