Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Make a large pot of this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup for a warming and comforting meal that will delight the entire family. This versatile soup is perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to family gatherings. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This hearty soup can be made in under 90 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: A blend of savory meats, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal on days when you don’t feel like cooking.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is not only filling but also provides essential nutrients for a healthy diet.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients or add seasonal vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Its heavy base allows for even cooking and browning of ingredients while providing enough space for simmering the soup.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you prep time in the kitchen.

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Ingredients

Make a large pot of this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup for a warming and comforting meal. Freezer friendly and full of flavor – a dinner the family will love!

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.
* Add the sausage and continue cooking until browned as well, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the carrots, celery, onions, and garlic to the pot.
* Cook until they start to soften, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Season and Deglaze

Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until evenly distributed.
* Pour the red apple vinegar into the pot and cook for about one minute while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot.
* Stir well to combine.
* Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans

Stir uncooked Ditalini pasta into the soup.
* Cook uncovered for approximately ten minutes.
* Then stir in drained beans; continue simmering for an additional four–five minutes or until pasta is tender.
* Adjust consistency by stirring through more broth if needed. Serve immediately topped with parmesan and parsley if desired. Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days.

How to Serve Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to present and complement this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A good sourdough or baguette can soak up the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or basil. This adds a fresh taste and enhances the visual appeal of your soup.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad. A light vinaigrette can balance the heartiness of the soup.

As an Appetizer

• Consider serving smaller portions as an appetizer before the main course. This offers a warm start to any meal.

With Cheese

• Offer grated parmesan on the side for guests to sprinkle over their soup. It adds richness and depth to every spoonful.

How to Perfect Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Perfecting your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Follow these tips for a satisfying bowl every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will greatly enhance the flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Flavor boost: Consider adding additional spices or herbs, such as thyme or bay leaves, during cooking for extra depth.
• Adjust broth levels: Depending on your preference for thickness, feel free to add more chicken broth if you like a soupier consistency.
• Simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Cook pasta separately: For best texture, cook Ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Complementing your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up soup and adds a flavorful kick.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and zest that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa, providing a satisfying companion without overshadowing the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall healthiness.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits filled with cheese complement the warm goodness of pasta fagioli perfectly.
7. Antipasto Platter: Create an inviting spread of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables for variety alongside your soup.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides protein while balancing out the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, certain mistakes can take away from its deliciousness. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meats can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Make sure to cook them until they are nicely browned for the best taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can result in a mushy texture. Aim for just a few minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to properly season your soup may leave it bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can dull the flavors of your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup. Always choose a good quality chicken broth or homemade version if possible.
• Ignoring pasta cooking times: Adding pasta too early can make it overcooked and mushy. Add it at the right time, following the package instructions for perfect texture.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through the simmering process means flavors won’t meld together properly. Allow adequate simmer time for a rich, hearty flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add more broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a flavorful Italian-inspired soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and broth, perfect for any meal.

Can I make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit any meats and use vegetable broth along with more beans or lentils for added protein.

How can I customize my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also use different types of pasta based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any canned beans you prefer, such as black beans or chickpeas, according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it a family favorite that can be customized easily with various vegetables and proteins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warming bowl of goodness!