Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

The Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe brings the beloved Olive Garden soup right to your kitchen. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, combining hearty ingredients into a flavorful bowl of goodness. Its unique blend of spices and beans ensures that every spoonful is satisfying while being easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this recipe is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and marinara sauce creates a savory depth that will impress your family and friends.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and pasta, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for dinner.
• Versatile Dish: Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or freezing for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients, ensuring that flavors meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots while also providing a sturdy grip during cooking.
• Chopping board & Knife: Essential for efficiently prepping your vegetables and herbs, saving time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lb of Italian sausage with no casing (I prefer it spicy!)
• 1 chopped yellow onion
• 2 large sliced carrots
• 3 stalks of thinly sliced celery
• 5 cloves of minced garlic

Broth and Sauces

• 1 32 oz. container of low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup of water
• 2 Tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 32 oz jar of your favorite marinara sauce (I used Rao’s)
• 2 tsp granulated sugar

Herbs and Seasonings

• 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp minced fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (season to taste)

Beans and Pasta

• 1 16 oz can of red beans
• 1 16 oz can of cannellini beans
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta

Garnish

• Parmesan cheese and fresh minced parsley for garnish

How to Make Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over medium-high heat, crumble in the Italian sausage. Cook it, stirring occasionally until fully cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Broth Ingredients

Pour in low sodium beef broth along with tomato paste, marinara sauce, granulated sugar, minced basil, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans

Add dry ditalini pasta along with water, kidney beans, and cannellini beans to the soup. Cook on low until the pasta is al dente, which should take about 5 more minutes.

Step 6: Season Your Soup

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve warm with Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top along with fresh minced parsley for added flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of this savory soup.

Classic Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of freshly baked crusty bread for dipping. It soaks up the delicious broth perfectly.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These soft and buttery sticks add a flavorful crunch that complements the soup.

Garnishing Ideas

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top just before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle minced parsley over the soup to add a pop of color and freshness.

Salad Suggestions

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing balance to the richness of Pasta Fagioli.

How to Perfect Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some easy tricks to ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying.

• Bold flavors: Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper at different stages of cooking for depth.
• Fresh herbs: Use fresh herbs whenever possible; they provide a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t match.
• Simmer longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for richer flavors; even 20 minutes can make a difference!
• Pasta al dente: Cook the pasta separately if you prefer it firmer. Add it just before serving for better texture.
• Customize beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference; chickpeas also work well in this recipe.
• Leftover magic: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this comforting soup beautifully.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese provide a healthy, crunchy side.
2. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an inviting starter that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
3. Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A light salad with fresh spinach, strawberries, nuts, and balsamic dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Baked bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add heartiness without overshadowing the main dish.
5. Risotto Balls: These crispy treats filled with creamy risotto make for an indulgent pairing alongside your soup.
6. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic bring comfort food vibes that everyone will love.
7. Focaccia Bread: This soft and fluffy bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of your delicious soup.
8. Bruschetta Trio: Offer assorted bruschetta toppings like tomatoes, mushrooms, or tapenade for guests to enjoy as they sip their soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using the wrong beans: Different beans have unique textures and flavors. Stick to kidney and cannellini beans for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the perfect bite.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Dried herbs are great, but fresh basil and rosemary elevate the flavor. Don’t skip them!
• Not sautéing vegetables properly: Properly sautéing onions, carrots, and celery enhances their sweetness. Make sure they’re tender before adding other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in single-serving portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air.

Reheating Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe that may help you while cooking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide excellent flavor.

What type of broth should I use for Pasta Fagioli?

Low-sodium beef broth works well, but you can also use chicken or vegetable broth if preferred.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, omit the meat and substitute with extra beans or lentils.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to cook this recipe?

The total time from start to finish is approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

This Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or serving guests. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of warmth!