Delicious Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli, also known as pasta e fagioli, is a traditional Italian soup that beautifully blends simple ingredients into something truly comforting. With soft pasta, creamy beans, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato base, this dish delivers hearty flavor in every bite. It is the kind of recipe that feels both rustic and nourishing, perfect for feeding a family or enjoying on your own with a slice of crusty bread. While it has roots in humble Italian kitchens, its popularity has spread worldwide thanks to its satisfying taste and ease of preparation.
What makes this recipe stand out is how easy it is to adapt. You can keep it vegetarian or add a bit of meat for extra depth. The best part is, it uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cold evenings. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or planning your meal prep for the week, this delicious Pasta Fagioli recipe is a warm, filling, and budget-friendly option you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You Need This Recipe
Some recipes become favorites because they are simple, reliable, and comforting. This pasta fagioli recipe is exactly that. It uses everyday ingredients like pasta, beans, tomatoes, and herbs to create a dish that is full of flavor and warmth. It does not require complicated steps or hard-to-find items. You can make it quickly, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Another reason this recipe is worth making is how flexible it is. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have available. Whether you want to keep it vegetarian or add some meat for extra richness, it will still turn out delicious. This dish is also very filling and satisfying, making it great for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. It keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to blend. If you want a recipe that is comforting, adaptable, and easy to prepare, pasta fagioli is a great choice to have in your cooking routine.
Ingredients
This table provides a breakdown of the ingredients and their calorie content, helping you keep track of the nutritional value of your meal. Feel free to adjust the portion sizes based on your preferences or dietary needs.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni) | 1 cup (about 100g) | 350 |
| Cannellini beans (canned, drained) | 1 can (15 oz / 265g) | 210 |
| Crushed tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (15 oz / 425g) | 80 |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | 4 cups (960 ml) | 40 |
| Onion (small, chopped) | 1 | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Carrot (diced) | 1 medium | 25 |
| Celery stalk (diced) | 1 | 10 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh parsley or basil (optional) | For garnish | Negligible |
| Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 40 |
How to Prepare
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about five to seven minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
After the vegetables are ready, pour in the crushed tomatoes and the broth. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper to your taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to let the flavors blend well.
Once the broth is flavorful, add the pasta and cannellini beans. Cook everything together until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the pasta you use. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the soup thicken slightly.
When the pasta is cooked through, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the pasta fagioli hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. This simple process results in a comforting, hearty meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Pro Tips
To get the best flavor from your pasta fagioli, start by using good quality broth. Whether you choose vegetable or chicken broth, a rich and flavorful base makes a big difference. If you have time, homemade broth works wonders for adding depth to the soup.
When cooking the pasta, avoid overcooking it. Pasta fagioli tastes best when the pasta is tender but still slightly firm. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and change the texture of the dish. You can also cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to keep it from getting too soft.
If you want to add extra protein or richness, try stirring in some cooked Italian sausage or pancetta. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor and make the dish more filling. Also, adding a splash of red wine or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and add complexity.
Lastly, pasta fagioli tastes even better the next day. Make a larger batch and enjoy the leftovers as the flavors continue to develop overnight. Just remember to store it properly in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, you may want to add a little broth or water to loosen it up.
Read more: Easy Vegetable Pasta Recipe
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
Pasta fagioli is a hearty and flavorful dish on its own, but adding the right pairings and toppings can take it to the next level. A crusty piece of bread or garlic toast is a classic choice that complements the soup’s rich tomato base and helps soak up every bit of the broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs nicely, adding a fresh and crisp contrast.
When it comes to toppings, grated Parmesan cheese is a must-have for many. It adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor that melts beautifully into the warm soup. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil bring a bright, herbal note that balances the richness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a little chili oil on top.
For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt works well, especially if you want to cool down the soup slightly. You can also add a splash of good quality olive oil just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a silky finish. These simple touches make each bowl more satisfying and personalized to your taste.
Conclusion
The delicious pasta fagioli recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It offers warmth, comfort, and satisfying flavors all in one bowl. Whether you are cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for an easy yet hearty dish, pasta fagioli fits the bill perfectly.
Its flexibility and ease make it a great addition to your recipe collection. You can customize it to suit your taste or use whatever you have on hand, and it always delivers a comforting meal. Give this recipe a try, and you might find yourself reaching for it again and again whenever you want a taste of homemade comfort.
