The Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe brings the beloved Olive Garden favorite right into your kitchen. This comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it satisfies both the palate and the soul. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious pasta fagioli that combines simplicity with authenticity, making it suitable for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and marinara sauce creates a deeply satisfying taste that rivals restaurant versions.
- Hearty Ingredients: Packed with beans and pasta, this soup is filling and nutritious, perfect for a complete meal.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love the fun shapes of ditalini pasta, while adults will appreciate the robust flavors.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you create this delicious Italian soup effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and enough space to combine all ingredients without overflowing.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring, wooden spoons are gentle on cookware and allow you to mix without scratching surfaces.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors and achieving the perfect consistency in your soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 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
For the Broth
- 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
For Garnishing
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
- 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 while stirring until fully cooked through.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium-high heat until they become tender. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
Pour in the beef broth along with tomato paste, marinara sauce, granulated sugar, basil, oregano, and thyme. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans
Add dry ditalini pasta, water, kidney beans, and cannellini beans into the soup. Cook on low until the pasta reaches al dente texture (approximately 5 more minutes).
Step 6: Season to Taste
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm in bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley sprinkled over each serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Serving your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli is key to enhancing its rich flavors and comforting qualities. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Fresh Baguette – Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and flavor contrast.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing complements the soup beautifully.
- Mediterranean Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta provides a nice balance to the hearty soup.
Enhance with Toppings
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings an extra layer of flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when garnished on top.
How to Perfect Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Perfecting your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Bold Flavor Boost – Consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Texture Variety – For added texture, include diced zucchini or spinach during cooking.
- Herb Freshness – Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more aromatic flavor profile.
- Adjust Thickness – If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead – Prepare the soup a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together even more.
Best Side Dishes for Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli enhances the dining experience. Here are some excellent side options to consider.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a fresh appetizer.
- Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a classic Italian touch.
- Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables is perfect for nibbling before the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa create a filling side that complements the soup well.
- Focaccia Bread – This soft, flavorful bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the pasta fagioli.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add depth and flavor. Always include fresh basil and rosemary for the best taste.
- Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it can become mushy. Aim for al dente texture when adding it.
- Not Tasting Before Serving: Seasoning is key! Always taste your soup before serving to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Ignoring Broth Quality: Using a low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor. Opt for low sodium beef broth for a richer taste.
- Using Canned Beans Without Rinsing: Canned beans often contain added sodium. Rinse them under cold water to reduce excess salt and improve flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe:
How can I customize my Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap out the beans based on what you have at home.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Ditalini is traditional, but you can use any small pasta like elbows or shells if preferred.
How do I store leftovers of my Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it versatile enough to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or alternate proteins. Give it a try today!
Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Savor the comforting flavors of this Semi-Homemade Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe, which brings the essence of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. This hearty soup combines tender beans, ditalini pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and customizable to suit everyone’s tastes. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether served alongside crusty bread or a crisp salad, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (no casing)
- 1 chopped yellow onion
- 2 large sliced carrots
- 3 stalks thinly sliced celery
- 5 cloves minced garlic
- 32 oz low sodium beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 32 oz marinara sauce
- 16 oz can red beans
- 16 oz can cannellini beans
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
- Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, crumble the Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until tender. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in beef broth, tomato paste, marinara sauce, water, basil, oregano, and thyme. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta and both bean varieties; cook until pasta is al dente (about 5 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg