This classic Pasta Fagioli is like a warm hug from Nonna—featuring a rich tomato broth, tender beans, savory ground beef, and comforting pasta all simmered together until perfectly blended. It’s the kind of meal that soothes the soul and satisfies every craving for traditional Italian comfort food. With humble ingredients and bold flavors, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, it gets even better the next day—making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or topped with Parmesan, every spoonful is pure comfort. You can easily customize this dish: leave out the meat for a vegetarian version, or toss in zucchini or spinach for extra veggies. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect any time you need a taste of home.
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) cannellini or great northern beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (about 100 g) ditalini pasta (or elbow pasta)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Directions:
- Brown the Beef:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. - Sauté Vegetables:
Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. - Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Mix well. - Season and Simmer:
Add Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. - Cook Pasta:
Add the pasta directly into the soup and cook for 10 minutes or until al dente. Add a bit more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick. - Serve:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
💡 Tips:
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the beef and add extra beans or diced zucchini.
- Extra flavor: Simmer with a Parmesan rind—just remember to remove it before serving.
- Meal prep magic: Tastes even better the next day!