Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. Packed with lean ground beef, nutritious beans, and vibrant vegetables, this hearty soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, its rich flavors and inviting aroma will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cozy Comfort: This soup wraps you in warmth, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking process with minimal cleanup—everything cooks in one pot!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and vegetables provides a delightful depth of flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread for dipping.
• Easy to Adapt: Feel free to swap in your favorite beans or veggies based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style), having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while breaking apart the meat.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect flavor balance.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

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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 Liquid Ingredients

• 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

For Seasoning and Flavor

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 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 Final Touches

• 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
• 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 Beef

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 6 minutes until softened. Add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately

While your soup is simmering away, cook the ditalini pasta in a separate pot until just shy of al dente according to package instructions. Drain well before setting aside.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

Add cooked pasta along with kidney beans and great Northern beans into the soup mixture. Stir gently and allow it to simmer for another 2 minutes. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add extra water at this stage.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Finally, stir in fresh parsley just before serving. Ladle steaming bowls of soup into dishes topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup!

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

Serving Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This hearty soup can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors and make it a complete meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of fresh, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the savory broth beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese. The melted cheese adds richness and depth to the dish.

Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional minced parsley or basil on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness to every serving.

Side Salad

• Serve with a light side salad made of mixed greens and vinaigrette. The crispiness complements the warm soup perfectly.

Garlic Bread

• Offer garlic bread as a side option. Its buttery, garlicky flavor pairs well with the rich soup.

With Olive Oil Drizzle

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving enhances the flavors. It adds a touch of elegance to your presentation.

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

To elevate your Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips that ensure a delicious outcome every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly improve the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference for a balanced taste.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup. Add it just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for varied textures and tastes.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

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

Pasta Fagioli Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth while adding extra flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and creamy elements that complement the soup’s heartiness.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh contrast to warm soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added nutrition and a slightly sweet flavor profile that balances the soup.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Skewers featuring mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing bite.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of cured meats (like turkey), cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies create an appealing spread next to your soup.

7. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa bring additional texture and nutrients alongside the comforting soup.

8. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always cook it just shy of al dente before adding it to the soup.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Many forget to properly season their soup. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. Always finish your soup with fresh parsley for the best taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If the soup appears too thick, don’t hesitate to add more water or broth while simmering to reach your preferred consistency.
• Ignoring Prep Time: Chopping vegetables can take longer than expected. Prepare all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style).

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like black beans or pinto beans if you prefer.

What type of pasta works best for Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style)?

Ditalini is traditional, but you can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or shell pasta.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a hearty veggie version.

How do I customize my Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Barefoot Contessa Style) is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs according to your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week!