Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Packed with lean ground beef, hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is a delightful one-pot meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and its savory taste will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with protein and fiber from the beef and beans, ensuring it satisfies your hunger.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or meal prep; it’s a dish that suits any occasion.
• Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The combination of herbs and spices creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than washing dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this pasta fagioli soup recipe a breeze, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking soups; it provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work quick and safe.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup without scratching your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

This pasta fagioli soup recipe is cozy, savory, and full of traditional Italian comfort. Made with lean ground beef, beans, vegetables, pasta, and herbs, it’s a hearty one-pot meal you’ll come back to again and again.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Saucy Goodness

• 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup water (plus more as needed)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar

For Seasoning

• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Hearty Additions

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great Northern beans, drained and rinsed

For Garnish

• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese*, for garnish

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, sugar, and all dried herbs. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low; cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the soup simmers, cook ditalini in a separate pot until just shy of al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Add Beans & Pasta

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great Northern beans to the soup mixture. Stir well and simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Adjust consistency with extra water if desired.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in minced parsley just before serving. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a warm and hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, serving this soup can be both simple and delightful. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of toasted baguette for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair the soup with garlic bread for an added layer of flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Romano or Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top just before serving for a rich and savory finish.
• Mozzarella Pearls: Add mozzarella pearls for a creamy texture that melts beautifully into the hot soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a light and healthy contrast.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
• Basil Leaves: Whole basil leaves add a fragrant touch, enhancing the Italian essence of the meal.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

To make your Pasta Fagioli Soup come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a flavorful and satisfying experience.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hold back on salt and pepper; they bring out all other flavors in the soup.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for better texture and taste.
• Simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust consistency: Feel free to add more water or broth if you prefer a thinner soup; it should be just right for your liking.
• Cook pasta separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Serve hot: For the best flavor, serve your soup immediately while it’s still hot and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

Complementing your Pasta Fagioli Soup with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping and savoring alongside your soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, roasted peppers, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and excitement to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty yet healthy addition to your dinner table.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned simply enhance your meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant colors.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a comforting touch that complements the savory nature of the soup.
7. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are not only delicious but also add an extra veggie option to your meal.
8. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy make for an easy-to-eat side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will enhance your dish.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking your pasta too long makes it mushy in the soup. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when added to the broth.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can ruin the flavor. Choose fresh vegetables and quality meats for a richer taste.
• Not Balancing Seasonings: Over-salting or under-seasoning can affect the overall flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings gradually.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meat could lead to less depth of flavor. Ensure you brown the beef well for a tasty, hearty base.
• Ignoring Consistency: If your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water. Adjust until you reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about this delicious soup. Here are some frequently asked questions.

What is Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)?

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian dish made with ground beef, beans, pasta, and flavorful herbs, perfect for chilly evenings.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)?

Feel free to add more veggies like spinach or zucchini or switch out the beans for your favorites to make it your own!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape works well, such as macaroni or mini shells, depending on your preference.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) offers comforting flavors and versatility. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with various ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe today!