Hearty Pasta e Fagioli Soup

 Hearty Pasta e Fagioli Soup – A Comforting One-Pot Classic

When the air turns crisp and you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal, look no further than this rich and flavorful Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Packed with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, hearty beans, and perfectly cooked pasta, this Italian-inspired dish is comfort in a bowl. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to warm you up, this one-pot wonder delivers bold flavors and wholesome goodness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, one pot, and minimal prep.

✔ Packed with Flavor – A robust broth infused with garlic, oregano, and tomatoes.

✔ Nourishing & Satisfying – Protein-rich ground beef and beans, fiber-packed veggies, and comforting pasta make this a filling, well-balanced meal.

✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

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Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish

Main Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) ground beef or turkey – Adds rich, savory depth to the broth. Ground turkey offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.

1 medium onion, diced – Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the broth with a bold garlicky punch.

2 carrots, sliced – Adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying bite.

2 sticks celery, chopped – Contributes a subtle earthy crunch.

1 green bell pepper, chopped – Introduces a slight sweetness and mild heat.

1 can (15 oz/425g) crushed tomatoes – Forms the flavor-packed base of the broth.

1 can (15 oz/425g) red kidney beans, rinsed & drained – Delivers heartiness and texture.

1 can (15 oz/425g) cannellini beans, rinsed & drained – Adds creaminess and protein.

4 cups (1 liter) beef or vegetable stock – Provides a rich, savory liquid base.

1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce – Enhances the soup with extra depth and body.

¼ pound (about 1 cup) elbow macaroni or ditalini pasta – Soaks up the delicious broth for the perfect bite.

Seasonings & Garnish:

1 teaspoon dried oregano – Infuses the broth with a classic Italian essence.

Salt & black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.

Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and color.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

3. Once browned, drain excess grease if necessary.

4. Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Broth

5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef stock, stirring to combine.

6. Add the oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

7. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Add Beans & Pasta

8. Stir in the kidney beans and cannellini beans, cooking for 5 more minutes.

9. Add the uncooked pasta, stirring occasionally, and let it cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).

Step 5: Final Touches & Serve

10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta e Fagioli

✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – If meal prepping, cook pasta separately and add it before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much broth.

✔ Boost the Flavor – A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the taste.

✔ Make It Spicier – Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick.

✔ Make It Thicker – For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty soup with:

Crusty garlic bread for soaking up the flavorful broth.

A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing for balance.

Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top for a cheesy, umami boost.

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Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup brings together simple ingredients, bold flavors, and easy prep to create a satisfying, nourishing meal. Whether you're feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is budget-friendly, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Bookmark this recipe, because once you try it,

 it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Hungry for more? Let us know how your Pasta e Fagioli turns out in the comments below!