There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli to bring comfort and joy to dinner time. This hearty Italian soup, packed with ground beef, vegetables, beans, and pasta, is a hit for both family dinners and gatherings with friends. The slow-cooked flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

 

I first stumbled upon this recipe on a chilly evening, seeking a dish that would warm both the body and soul. The combination of tender vegetables, flavorful beef, and al dente pasta in a robust tomato broth was exactly what I needed. This dish quickly became a favorite, not just for its taste but also for its ease of preparation. Just toss everything into the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Pasta Fagioli, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 4 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 (28 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (16 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (16 oz) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 (10 oz) cans beef stock
• 3 tsp oregano
• 2 tsp pepper
• 5 tsp parsley
• 1 tsp Tabasco sauce (optional)
• 1 (20 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
• 8 oz pasta

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain the fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with their juice), both types of kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, Tabasco sauce (if using), and the jar of spaghetti sauce to the crockpot. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the pasta to the crockpot. Let it cook until it’s tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Dish up your Pasta Fagioli with some warm, crusty bread. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Equipment

• Skillet
• Crockpot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board and knife

Tips and Variations

• Variation: Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier version.
• Tip: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Variation: Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta if you’re catering to gluten sensitivities.
• Tip: For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can use any beans you prefer, such as black beans or cannellini beans.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely. Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
4. What kind of pasta works best? Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best as they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.

 

Pasta Fagioli is a delightful, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it an ideal meal for any night of the week. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Serve it with some crusty bread and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic Italian soup.