Make a large pot of this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup for a warming and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, chilly nights, or whenever you crave something wholesome and hearty. Packed with flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a convenient choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup is rich in taste, thanks to the combination of herbs, meats, and vegetables.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the veggies or beans based on what you have on hand.
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals later in the week.
- Family Favorite: Everyone will enjoy this filling soup that offers warmth and satisfaction.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering soup without splatter.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
To create this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ ounces thick-cut Turkey Bacon (diced)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (crumbled)
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 5 medium celery stalks (diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 2 small-medium onions (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 4 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup red apple vinegar (OR more broth)
- 1 (24-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (use fire-roasted for more flavor)
- 5 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup dry Ditalini pasta
- 1 (15-oz) can dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (15-oz) can white cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
- grated parmesan (to serve (optional))
- chopped parsley (to serve (optional))
How to Make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Step 1: Brown the Meats
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Turkey Bacon and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Then add the sausage, continuing to cook until browned as well, about an additional 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the carrots, celery, onions, and garlic to the pot. Cook these ingredients until they start to soften, which should take around 4–5 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Deglaze
Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until evenly distributed. Pour in the red apple vinegar to deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom; cook for about one minute.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low simmer and cover. Allow it to cook for about 15–20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans
Stir uncooked Ditalini pasta into the soup; cook uncovered for around ten minutes. Then stir in both drained beans and continue simmering for an additional four–five minutes until pasta is cooked through. If necessary, add more broth to achieve your desired consistency. Serve immediately with optional toppings like grated parmesan or parsley. Refrigerate any leftovers for up to three days.
How to Serve Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Serving Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal experience. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some suggestions for serving it to make the most of its rich flavors.
With Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty loaf of bread is ideal for dipping into the soup. Try sourdough or ciabatta for added texture.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnishing your soup with chopped parsley or fresh basil adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor profile.
Accompanied by Cheese
- Serve with grated parmesan on top for a savory finish. You can also offer a cheese platter as an appetizer.
As a Complete Meal
- Pair this soup with a fresh salad to create a balanced dinner. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette.
In Individual Bowls
- For an inviting presentation, serve soup in individual bowls. You can add a sprig of fresh herb on each bowl for decoration.
How to Perfect Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
To make your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup truly stand out, consider these helpful tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to their canned or dried counterparts.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to achieve the desired flavor.
Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent pasta from becoming mushy, you can cook it separately and add it just before serving.
Refrigerate Overnight: Letting the soup chill overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat gently before serving.
Make it Ahead: This soup freezes well! Prepare a double batch and store half in the freezer for easy meals later.
Best Side Dishes for Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth. Bake until golden and serve warm.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers crunch and creaminess that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the soup.
Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta provides a fresh taste that balances the richness of the soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice and veggies, stuffed peppers make for a hearty side that complements the soup’s texture.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to your meal while keeping it healthy and colorful.
Caprese Skewers: These easy-to-make skewers featuring mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are refreshing and tasty alongside the soup.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory notes of the soup, making it an excellent pairing choice.
Simple Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch that goes well with any bowl of hearty soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup can be a fun cooking experience, but there are some common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Ignoring the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can diminish the flavor of your soup. Always opt for a good-quality chicken broth or homemade version for the best taste.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Add it towards the end of cooking to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup adequately can result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
- Not sautéing vegetables properly: Failing to sauté your vegetables long enough can leave them undercooked and crunchy. Sauté until they start to soften for optimal flavor and texture.
- Adding beans too soon: If you add canned beans at the beginning, they may become overly soft. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking instead.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.
Freezing Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Containers: Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup.
What is Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for cold days!
Can I make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I customize my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach and swap out pasta types based on what you have on hand.
How long does it take to make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
The total time is about 90 minutes, including preparation and cooking.
What should I serve with Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just satisfying; it’s also versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with bread, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and fill your stomach. Don’t hesitate to try making this comforting dish today!
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Indulge in the warm embrace of Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. This comforting Italian classic is brimming with nutritious vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. Not only is it easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, but it’s also freezer-friendly—making it an ideal option for meal prep or last-minute dinners. Customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or beans to make it truly your own. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ ounces thick-cut turkey bacon (diced)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (crumbled)
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 5 medium celery stalks (diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 2 small-medium onions (peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups))
- 4 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup red apple vinegar (OR more broth)
- 1 (24-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (use fire-roasted for more flavor)
- 5 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup dry Ditalini pasta
- 1 (15-oz) can dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (15-oz) can white cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
- grated parmesan (to serve (optional))
- chopped parsley (to serve (optional))
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced turkey bacon and cook until browned (3–4 minutes). Then add crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned (4–5 minutes).
- Stir in diced carrots, celery, onions, and minced garlic; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic powder; then deglaze with red apple vinegar for about 1 minute.
- Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in uncooked Ditalini pasta and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. Add drained kidney and cannellini beans; simmer for another 4–5 minutes until pasta is cooked through.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg