If you’re craving a comforting bowl that just feels like a warm hug, look no further than Pasta Fagioli: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 6 People Recipe. This hearty Italian classic bursts with tender cannellini beans, gently cooked pasta, and rich tomato broth, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, this recipe is simple to make, packed with nutrients, and brings that authentic homemade taste right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. Each component plays a unique role, from the creamy beans providing substance to the herbs lifting the flavors with fragrant notes.
- Ditalini pasta: Small pasta shapes that hold onto the broth beautifully, making every bite a delightful blend of pasta and soup.
- Cannellini beans: These creamy white beans add protein and a velvety texture that makes the soup filling and wholesome.
- Onion: Diced and sautéed until translucent, it forms a sweet and aromatic base for the soup.
- Garlic: Minced and lightly cooked to release its fragrant punch without overpowering the dish.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and freshness that balances the richness of the beans and broth.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: The heart of the soup, giving depth and warmth to the flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the aromatics to perfection.
- Dried oregano: A classic herb that introduces a hint of earthiness and Italian flair.
- Dried basil: Complements the oregano with its sweet, peppery notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For a vibrant, fresh garnish that brightens each bowl.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A savory finish that adds creamy umami depth with every sprinkle.
How to Make Pasta Fagioli: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 6 People Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure your onion is diced, garlic minced, and beans drained and rinsed. Having everything ready means the process is smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until you can smell its lovely aroma filling the kitchen.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir well. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing their bright flavors to mingle with the sautéed onions and garlic, creating a rich base for your soup.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans
Next, add the vegetable or chicken broth along with the cannellini beans. Stir gently to combine, making sure the beans start warming through and soak in the flavors from the base you created.
Step 5: Season Your Soup
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. These herbs add depth and character to the broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil to awaken all those vibrant aromas.
Step 6: Add the Pasta
Once your soup is boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente. This timing keeps the pasta tender but not mushy, ensuring a great texture.
Step 7: Adjust Soup Consistency
If the soup feels too thick for your liking, simply stir in a splash of extra broth or water to loosen it up. This way, you can enjoy it exactly the way you want—soupy or stew-like.
Step 8: Final Seasoning Check
Give your soup a final taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary. These personal tweaks help make the dish truly your own and bring out the best flavors.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the hot Pasta Fagioli into bowls. Top with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. These finishing touches elevate both the look and the taste, making it a meal to remember.
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 6 People Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil really brighten the earthy tones of the soup and add a pop of color. A generous dusting of Parmesan cheese melts slightly on top, adding a savory, creamy dimension that perfectly complements the beans and pasta.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty soup alongside crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, balancing the meal with refreshing crunch and acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family gatherings, serve Pasta Fagioli in individual rustic bowls placed on wooden chargers. Drizzle a little olive oil on top before garnishing for an appetizing sheen. You could also offer extra Parmesan and chili flakes at the table so guests can customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pasta Fagioli keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more satisfying.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its lovely texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. If reheating in the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, any small pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells will work great and hold the soup well.
Is Pasta Fagioli suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and make sure any added cheese is vegetarian-friendly, and you’re all set for a delicious meat-free meal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta, and double-check your broth ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten, and you’ll have a tasty gluten-free version.
How can I make Pasta Fagioli spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking or serve with hot sauce on the side to give it a nice kick. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts well to your spice preference.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup without pasta?
If you want to avoid mushy pasta on reheating, store the soup and cooked pasta separately. Add the pasta fresh when you reheat the soup for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Pasta Fagioli: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 6 People Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s a recipe you’ll reach for time and again, whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends. Give it a try — I promise it will become one of your all-time favorites!
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Pasta Fagioli: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 6 People Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pasta Fagioli is a classic Italian soup featuring tender ditalini pasta, creamy cannellini beans, flavorful tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all simmered in a savory broth. This hearty and comforting dish is easy to prepare, perfect for feeding a family of six, and can be garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir well to combine and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine broth and beans: Add the vegetable or chicken broth along with the cannellini beans to the pot. Stir to mix everything together.
- Season the soup: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the pasta: Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to the pasta package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Adjust consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth, or keep it vegetarian with vegetable broth.
- Drain and rinse the cannellini beans well to reduce sodium content.
- The soup thickens as it sits; add broth when reheating if necessary.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta alternatives.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
