The Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This hearty soup, inspired by the popular Olive Garden favorite, is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only 40 minutes from prep to table, this recipe fits easily into any busy schedule.
- Flavorful Comfort: A blend of savory spices and wholesome ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying soup that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap out beans or pasta as you wish, making this dish adaptable to your pantry staples.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
- Family-Friendly: This soup appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, these essential items will help you create a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Chopping Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot: Ideal for simmering soups and stews, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Wooden Spoon: Gentle on cookware while effectively stirring ingredients without scratching surfaces.
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
Broth and Sauce Components
- 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
- 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh basil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp fresh thyme
Beans and Pasta
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (season to taste)
- 1 16 oz can of red beans
- 1 16 oz can of cannellini beans
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
Garnishes
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
- 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, stirring frequently 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. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Broth Ingredients
Pour in the beef broth along with tomato paste, marinara sauce, granulated sugar, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans
Stir in dry ditalini pasta along with water, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Cook on low until pasta is al dente (about 5 more minutes).
Step 6: Season to Taste
Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley for added flavor.
Enjoy your deliciously comforting bowl of semi-homemade Italian pasta fagioli!
How to Serve Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Serving your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli is just as important as preparing it. A few thoughtful touches can elevate this comforting soup into a delightful meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette or rustic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the savory broth.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving for a burst of color and extra flavor.
Topped with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top adds a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Accompanied by a Salad
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Consider adding cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Served in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the soup in individual bowls can make it feel more special and inviting, especially for gatherings.
With a Side of Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping and enhances the Italian experience of your meal.
How to Perfect Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Creating the ultimate Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality broth and marinara sauce for richer flavors in your soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference to ensure a well-seasoned dish.
Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking the ditalini pasta separately can prevent it from becoming mushy. Add it just before serving.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. Just be cautious not to overcook the pasta.
Experiment with Beans: Try other beans like chickpeas or black beans for different textures and flavors.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant roasted with olive oil bring out natural sweetness.
Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers makes for an elegant starter.
Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are irresistible and perfect for dipping into the soup.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a delicious appetizer that complements the main dish.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides freshness alongside the hearty soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and herbs add another layer of flavor to your meal experience.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers comfort and pairs beautifully with the rich pasta fagioli.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe a success, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.
Ignoring ingredient quality – Using low-quality broth or marinara sauce can affect the taste. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning properly can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper accordingly.
Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it just until al dente for the perfect texture.
Neglecting the aromatics – Not sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables long enough can result in underwhelming flavors. Ensure they are tender and fragrant before adding liquids.
Not adjusting for leftovers – Failing to consider that pasta absorbs liquid can make leftovers unappetizing. Store pasta separately if possible to maintain texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop – Pour soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often flavored with vegetables and herbs. It’s hearty and comforting!
How do I customize my Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale, swap beans for chickpeas, or even include turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes! Using vegetable broth makes this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets without sacrificing flavor.
How long does it take to cook this Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
The total time is approximately 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brimming with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand or prefer. Give it a try today!
Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a delightful soup that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your dinner table. This hearty dish is a perfect blend of savory spices, nutritious beans, and tender pasta, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. In just 40 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal that’s not only satisfying but also customizable according to your pantry staples. Ideal for families, this soup can be made in large batches and tastes even better the next day. Enjoy it with crusty bread or topped with fresh herbs and cheese for an extra touch of deliciousness.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 2 lb of ground turkey or chicken
- 1 chopped yellow onion
- 2 large sliced carrots
- 3 stalks of thinly sliced celery
- 5 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 32 oz. container of low sodium beef broth
- 1 32 oz jar of marinara sauce
- 1 16 oz can of red beans
- 1 16 oz can of cannellini beans
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (season to taste)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, crumble the ground turkey or chicken and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef broth, marinara sauce, granulated sugar, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta, water, red beans, and cannellini beans; cook until pasta is al dente (about 5 more minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or kale. Experiment with different beans like chickpeas for unique textures. Cooking pasta separately helps maintain its perfect texture.