Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

A delicious and hearty dish, Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) brings comfort to the table. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to cozy gatherings with friends. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking healthy comfort food that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: A blend of hearty beans, pasta, and spices creates a fulfilling dish that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever beans or pasta you have on hand; this recipe is adaptable to your pantry staples.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for leftovers or freeze some for a quick meal later.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Pasta Fazool, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven: Ideal for cooking all ingredients in one pot, ensuring flavors meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while providing excellent control over cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, casings removed)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 15 ounces fire roasted tomatoes (do not drain)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoons pepper

For the Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup dry pasta (I use ditalini)
• 15 ounces red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

For Garnish

• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped finely)

How to Make Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Heat 1 Tbs olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground beef or sausage, stirring occasionally until cooked through.
* Remove meat from the pot, and drain the fat off.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat remaining 2 Tbs olive oil in the dutch oven.
* Add onions, carrots, and celery.
* Cook until veggies are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add garlic to the pot.
* Cook, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken stock, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, cooked meat, and ditalini to the pot.

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil.
* Reduce heat and cover with lid.
* Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and pasta is cooked.

Step 6: Add Beans

Stir in kidney beans and cannellini beans.
* Cook for a few minutes to heat through.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Pasta Fazool as a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pasta Fazool is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night or sharing with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or ciabatta pairs perfectly for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A handful of fresh basil or additional parsley can elevate the dish, adding a pop of color and taste.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad with vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors of the soup.

In Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve Pasta Fazool in individual bowls, garnished with herbs and cheese.

How to Perfect Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

To achieve the best results with your Pasta Fazool, consider these helpful tips. Each step will contribute to enhancing the flavors and textures of this comforting meal.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a significant difference in taste.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Ensure that the pasta remains al dente; it will continue cooking in the soup even after you remove it from heat.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; feel free to add more salt or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fazool can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options that complement this hearty soup nicely.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread enhances any Italian-inspired meal with its buttery, garlicky flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of marinated olives, artichokes, and peppers adds variety and flair to your table.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or grains offer both color and texture alongside your soup.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with Pasta Fazool.
7. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a crunchy element to balance out the soup’s softness.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a delicious appetizer that prepares your palate for the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pasta Fazool, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or tomato sauce can make your Pasta Fazool soupy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect balance.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it may become mushy. Follow the cooking time in the recipe for al dente pasta.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt or Italian seasoning will lead to bland flavors. Taste before serving and adjust as needed.
• Not sautéing vegetables enough: Under-cooked veggies can ruin the texture of your soup. Ensure they are softened before adding liquids.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and color. Don’t skip this step for a more vibrant dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta Fazool:

What is Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)?

Pasta Fazool is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically featuring ingredients like ground beef, vegetables, and tomato sauce.

Can I make Pasta Fazool vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I customize my Pasta Fazool?

You can add different beans, vegetables, or spices based on your preference. For added heat, consider including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Is Pasta Fazool healthy?

Yes! It’s loaded with protein from the beans and beef while also being rich in fiber from the vegetables.

Can I double this Pasta Fazool recipe?

Certainly! Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate all the ingredients without overflowing.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fazool is not just a meal; it’s comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its versatility allows for numerous variations based on what you have on hand. Try adding different beans or spices to make it your own, and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!