This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a hearty, comforting Italian classic that combines tender pasta with creamy beans in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and packed with rich, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium (diced)
- Carrots: 2 (diced)
- Celery stalks: 2 (diced)
- Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz)
- Chicken or vegetable stock: 4 cups
- Cannellini or Great Northern beans: 1 can (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- Small pasta (ditalini or elbow): 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (grated, plus more for garnish)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Add the tomato base:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and bay leaf.
- Simmer the broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the beans:
- Add the cannellini and kidney beans to the pot, stirring well. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Cook the pasta:
- Stir in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8–10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and garnish:
- Ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Pasta Fagioli:
- For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the soup.
- Use fresh herbs like basil and parsley for a burst of flavor.
- If reheating, add extra stock or water as the pasta will absorb liquid over time.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is delightful on its own or paired with:
- Garlic bread
- Mixed green salad
- A glass of red wine
A classic blend of rustic flavors, this Pasta Fagioli is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple, nutritious, and satisfying—perfect for any day of the week!
