Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

An easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a delightful Italian soup that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights in. This recipe combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 60 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and spices creates a rich taste that warms your soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies or beans based on what’s in your pantry or your family’s preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.
• Makes Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend together harmoniously.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot and helps to break up the sausage while it cooks.
• Measuring cups: Ensures you add the right amount of ingredients for consistent flavor each time you make the recipe.

Ingredients

An Italian favorite, this hearty soup is full of flavor with Italian sausage, veggies, beans and pasta all cooked in a flavorful tomato based broth. It’s a budget friendly, stick to your ribs kind of soup that is even better the next day.

For the Soup Base

• 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)
• 1 24 ounce jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
• 1 quart beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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
• 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 into crumbles as it browns. Once browned, drain off any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned sausage to the pot along with spaghetti sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until vegetables are tender—approximately 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

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

Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans

Add cooked pasta to the soup along with drained kidney beans and great northern beans. Allow soup to cook for a few more minutes; add water if needed to thin.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This hearty soup not only satisfies but also pairs wonderfully with complementary dishes and toppings.

Toppings

• Freshly Grated Cheese: Sprinkle finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.

Bread Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Crusty Italian Loaf: A fresh loaf of Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.

Salad Options

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make for a satisfying contrast.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Perfecting Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use homemade broth instead of store-bought for richer taste.
• Vegetable Variety: Experiment by adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Garnish Wisely: Finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance its richness.
• Pasta Precautions: Cook pasta separately to avoid it becoming mushy when reheating leftovers.
• Slow Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer longer if time permits; this deepens the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar add freshness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your table.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and cured meats offers various flavors and textures.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and veggies complement the heartiness of the soup well.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a delightful appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage to a new level of deliciousness.

• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your soup relies on good quality broth and fresh vegetables. Opt for fresh produce and a flavorful broth to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions for al dente pasta and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices during cooking to achieve a well-rounded flavor in your soup.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking lets flavors meld. If possible, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and preserves their texture. Always drain and rinse before adding them to your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative that keeps the dish leaner while still providing flavor.

How can I customize my Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and variety.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute vegetable broth and omit the sausage or use plant-based sausage alternatives.

What should I serve with Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out proteins. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!