Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

An Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This hearty soup combines savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta in a rich tomato broth. It’s not just delicious; it’s also budget-friendly and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: Each bowl is packed with robust flavors that warm your soul.
• Versatile Meal: It’s great as a standalone dish or served with crusty bread for dipping.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup on the table in an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Filled with vegetables and beans, this soup provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Perfect for cooking the entire soup without overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife: A good knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of veggies.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For Cooking the Soup

• 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 Seasoning

• 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 and 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: Brown the Sausage

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions become translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned sausage to the pot along with the spaghetti sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and all spices. Bring this mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until all veggies are soft—approximately 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook your ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Once cooked, drain the pasta. Add it to the soup along with both types of beans. Allow everything to cook together for a few more minutes. If needed, thin out your soup with water.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot topped with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is simple and straightforward. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve the soup hot, topped with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth. It’s perfect for dipping!

Salad on the Side

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding a fresh contrast to your meal.

Garnish Options

• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Extra Spice

• For those who enjoy a little heat, provide crushed red pepper flakes on the side so everyone can customize their spice level.

Family-Style Presentation

• Serve the soup in a large pot at the center of the table along with bowls and spoons for a cozy, family-style dining experience.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Perfecting your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage involves paying attention to flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for a richer flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta al dente so it maintains its texture when mixed into the soup.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Freeze Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container; simply reheat when ready to enjoy again!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pasta Fagioli can round out your meal nicely. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that adds crunch and flavor, ideal for dipping into the hearty broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing provides a lovely contrast to the warmth of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s overall healthiness.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing complement.

5. Cheese Toasts
   Simple toasted bread topped with melted cheese offers a deliciously gooey addition alongside your soup.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses create a delightful starter that pairs well with Italian flavors.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs bring an earthy taste that matches beautifully with the soup.

8. Polenta Fries
   Crispy polenta fries offer a unique twist that’s fun to enjoy while savoring each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Browning the Sausage Properly: Failing to brown the sausage can lead to a lack of flavor in your soup. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the Veggies: Neglecting to include vegetables can make your soup less nutritious and flavorful. Always add onions, carrots, and celery for a balanced taste.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Overloading with broth or tomato sauce can dilute flavors. Follow the recipe measurements closely to maintain a rich taste.
• Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: If you overcook the pasta, it may become mushy in the soup. Always cook pasta just until al dente before adding it to your dish.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup properly will result in blandness. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to enhance flavors.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage vegetarian?

You can substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian option while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Can I use different beans in my Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap kidney beans or great northern beans with any canned beans you prefer.

What is the best way to serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Serve it hot topped with freshly grated cheese and crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the crushed red pepper or add some diced jalapeños when cooking for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give this hearty soup a try; it’s perfect for any day of the week!