This hearty and flavorful Pasta e Fagioli is inspired by the classic Olive Garden dish. Packed with tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, savory beans, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 sticks celery, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14 oz) can red kidney beans, drained
1 (14 oz) can cannellini or great northern beans, drained
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
3/4 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until just browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Do not drain the fat for added flavor.
Cook the Vegetables
Stir in the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Combine Core Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover with the lid slightly ajar and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
Tip: If you plan to have leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual portions to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.
Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Comfort Food: A hearty, nutritious soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup with all ingredients cooked together.
Bursting with Flavor: A blend of Italian herbs and savory broth creates a rich, comforting dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Tips

Cook Pasta Separately for Leftovers: This prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft and absorbing all the broth.
Enhance the Flavor: Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresher taste.
Thicker Soup: Add less chicken broth if you prefer a thicker, stew-like consistency.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor compared to jarred options.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add an extra can of beans for added protein.
Beans: Experiment with black beans or chickpeas if you don’t have kidney or cannellini beans.
Pasta Types: Substitute ditalini with small shells, elbow macaroni, or any small pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli?
Yes, but freeze it without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to avoid mushy texture.

2. How long does it keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cooked pasta just before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

Side Dish: Pair with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Toppings: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Storage: Store in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop for best results.

This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile option for family meals or meal prep. It’s a dish everyone will appreciate!