Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

An easy pasta fagioli with sausage is the perfect comfort food, combining rich flavors and nutritious ingredients. This hearty soup is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, as it’s packed with Italian sausage, vegetables, beans, and pasta in a delicious tomato broth. Budget-friendly and filling, this dish gets even better overnight, making it a go-to recipe for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The blend of Italian sausage and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: This soup can be customized with your favorite vegetables or beans for a personal touch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients ensures you can make this satisfying dish without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for simmering large batches of soup without overflowing.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient quantities for consistent results.

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Ingredients

To create your easy pasta fagioli with sausage, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 1 24 ounce jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
• 1 quart beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta & Beans

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 15 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed

For Serving

• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large stock pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
* Add the mild Italian sausage to the pot.
* Break up the sausage into crumbles as it browns.
* Once browned, drain off any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot.
* Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery.
* Cook until onions are translucent and veggies soften (about 5–6 minutes).
* Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
* Stir in spaghetti sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
* Bring to a boil before reducing heat to low.
* Cover and let simmer until vegetables soften (approximately 15–20 minutes).

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

While waiting for the soup to simmer:
* Cook ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 5: Final Assembly

Drain cooked pasta when ready.
* Add it to the soup along with both types of beans.
* Allow everything to cook together for a few minutes longer; add water if you prefer a thinner soup.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls.
* Top with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Serving your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage can elevate the meal experience, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread pairs wonderfully with the soup. Try serving with a slice of sourdough or ciabatta to soak up the rich broth.

Garnished with Cheese

• Finely shredded cheese adds a creamy texture. Romano or Parmesan are excellent choices that complement the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top brings a burst of freshness. This finishing touch enhances both flavor and presentation.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A crisp green salad balances the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for contrast.

With a Side of Olives

• Marinated olives provide a briny contrast. Their salty flavor is a delightful addition that enhances the overall meal.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

To make your Easy Pasta Fagioli truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh produce not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color to your dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preference for a personalized touch.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a while after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare in advance and reheat before serving for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with beans: While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in other types like cannellini or black beans for variety.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pasta Fagioli can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup’s savory broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch that complements the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These flavorful treats can be filled with rice or quinoa and make for a hearty side option.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition alongside your soup.
5. Caprese Skewers: Simple skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil provide a fresh appetizer before diving into your main dish.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats (or plant-based alternatives) offers variety and flavor.
7. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside or even crumbled into the soup for added texture.
8. Baked Zucchini Chips: Crunchy zucchini chips offer a light alternative that pairs well while keeping things healthy.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal around your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sautéing: Failing to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the soup can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to cook your onions, carrots, and celery until they are tender.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early or overcook it, you’ll end up with mushy noodles. Cook your ditalini pasta separately until al dente, then combine it with the soup just before serving.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning your soup adequately can lead to bland results. Taste your broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.

• Neglecting Bean Preparation: Using unprepared canned beans can introduce excess sodium and a tinny flavor. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to your soup for a fresher taste.

• Not Allowing for Flavors to Meld: Rushing through the simmering process means flavors won’t have time to develop fully. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes so all ingredients can harmonize beautifully.

• Forgetting to Garnish: A simple garnish like freshly grated cheese can elevate your dish significantly. Don’t skip out on adding that finishing touch before serving!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy defrosting.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, adding water if necessary, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage:

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes! Turkey sausage is a great alternative that still brings plenty of flavor without being too heavy.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What type of beans work best in this recipe?

Dark red kidney beans and great northern beans are both excellent choices that provide great texture and protein content.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

The total time is around 60 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick option for dinner.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is not only delicious but also versatile. This hearty dish can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the type of beans used. The combination of flavors makes it a comforting meal perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try; you’re sure to love it!