Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

A delicious and hearty meal, Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) is perfect for any occasion. This one-pot dish combines the flavors of tender pasta, savory beef, and nutritious beans into a comforting bowl that warms the soul. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, making it a beloved recipe in many kitchens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and protein-rich beans, this dish offers a healthy balance that’s good for you.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this all-in-one meal that makes cooking and serving a breeze.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices to create your own version of this classic comfort food.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and kids alike, it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into your family’s meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your culinary journey, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This versatile pot retains heat well, making it perfect for simmering soups and stews evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring every ingredient mixes well.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your recipe.

Ingredients

A yummy one-pot meal that is super easy to make! Pasta Fazool is healthy comfort food that satisfies the whole family using commonly found 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)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

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)

Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped finely)

How to Make Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Pasta Fazool:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat 1 tablespoon of 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, then drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the same dutch oven. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until veggies are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken stock, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, along with the browned meat and ditalini pasta.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Increase heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.

Step 6: Simmer

Simmer while stirring occasionally for about 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender and pasta is cooked through.

Step 7: Heat Beans

Stir in kidney beans and cannellini beans. Cook for another few minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Pasta Fazool! Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights at home.

How to Serve Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

Pasta Fazool is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy meal at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your Pasta Fazool with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite even better.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese over the top before serving. This adds a rich, salty flavor that complements the dish nicely.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, to enhance the aroma and presentation. It provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty ingredients.

With a Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

In Individual Bowls

• Consider serving Pasta Fazool in individual bowls for an elegant presentation. Top with parsley for color and serve with a side of olive oil for drizzling.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy Pasta Fazool as leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

How to Perfect Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

To ensure your Pasta Fazool turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips for optimal results.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add pasta during the last 15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings based on your preference before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can make a difference.

• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for added texture and flavor complexity. Black beans or chickpeas can be great alternatives.

• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade chicken stock for deeper flavor rather than store-bought versions.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together and improves overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

When enjoying Pasta Fazool, complement it with these fantastic side dishes that round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Sliced baguette brushed with garlic butter and toasted until golden brown makes an excellent accompaniment.

2. Caprese Salad: A fresh combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness to your meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide both nutrition and flavor balance with their natural sweetness.

4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing topped with croutons offers crunch and creaminess alongside your soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices serve as a hearty side that echoes the flavors of Pasta Fazool.

6. Polenta: Creamy polenta served on the side is comforting and pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup while providing a gluten-free option.

7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting starter that whets the appetite before the main dish.

8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus spears add elegance to your table while offering a nutritious element alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fazool, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Always taste during cooking. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your Pasta Fazool.
• Overcooking pasta: Be mindful of cooking times. Ditalini should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Skipping the beans rinse: Rinsing canned beans helps remove excess sodium and improves texture. Don’t skip this step for better results.
• Not letting it simmer: Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Resist the urge to rush this step for a richer dish.
• Using cold broth: Always use warm chicken stock when adding it to your pot. Cold broth can lower the cooking temperature and affect consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta Fazool in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

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

Reheating Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta Fazool.

What is Pasta Fazool?

Pasta Fazool, also known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans. It’s comforting and filling!

Can I customize my Pasta Fazool?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or kale, switch up the beans, or even use different types of pasta according to your preference.

How do I make Pasta Fazool vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pasta Fazool, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What type of pasta is best for Pasta Fazool?

Ditalini is traditional but feel free to use any small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells that you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fazool is a delightful and versatile dish perfect for any season. It’s not only easy to prepare but also allows for endless customization based on your taste. Give this comforting recipe a try; you’re sure to satisfy everyone at the table!