Pasta Fagioli, meaning "pasta and beans" in Italian, is a traditional comfort dish rooted in rustic Italian cuisine. Known for its wholesome ingredients and hearty flavor, this soup-like pasta meal is popular for its simplicity and versatility. It’s beloved for being a cozy, one-pot meal that delivers rich taste with basic pantry staples. Whether made with vegetable or chicken broth, Pasta Fagioli remains a flavorful staple perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 3 garlic cloves (sliced)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp onion salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ lb pasta shells
- 28 oz cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Garlic
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer
- Stir in broth, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, onion salt, and black pepper.
- Bring mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
- Stir in pasta shells.
- Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10–11 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 4: Add Beans and Finish
- Stir in rinsed and drained cannellini beans.
- Cook until heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion for a more traditional minestrone-style base.
- Substitute ditalini or elbow pasta for the shells.
- For a thicker soup, mash a small portion of the beans before adding.
- Add cooked Italian sausage for a heartier, protein-rich version.
- Drizzle extra olive oil on top before serving for richer flavor.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.
- For vegetarian, ensure broth is vegetable-based.
- Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Finish with fresh basil or parsley for brightness.
Nutrition
Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 8gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.2gSodium: 670mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 650IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 2.8mg
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