Pasta Fagioli That Is Bound to Be a Hit

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli, especially during chilly evenings or family gatherings. This recipe has become a staple in my household, and it never fails to impress! The combination of ground beef, hearty vegetables, and savory beans creates a rich and satisfying dish that warms the soul. Every time I make it, my family raves about the flavors, and there’s always a request for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use a slow cooker, allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully while I go about my day. Trust me; this Pasta Fagioli recipe is sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 4 stalks of celery, chopped
• 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (16-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (16-ounce) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 (10-ounce) cans beef stock
• 3 tsp. oregano
• 2 tsp. pepper
• 5 tsp. parsley
• 1 tsp. Tabasco sauce (optional)
• 1 (20-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• 8 ounces pasta (any shape you prefer)

Instructions

Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

2. Transfer the browned beef into a slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with juice), red kidney beans, white kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, and Tabasco sauce (if using).

Slow Cook

4. Stir everything together until well combined. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Add the Pasta

5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure it’s submerged in the broth and continues cooking.

Serve

6. Once the pasta is cooked, ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls and serve with warm, crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 10g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 24g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-8 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)

How to Serve

• Ladle into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Enjoy as a hearty lunch the next day!

Additional Tips

1. Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time.
2. Spice It Up: If you like heat, add more Tabasco sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
4. Substitute Meats: You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety if needed.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a mix of beans and lentils for a meat-free alternative.
• Different Beans: Use black beans or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Pasta Fagioli: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar just before serving for a creamy twist.
• Italian Sausage: Swap out ground beef for Italian sausage for an added kick of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the hearty soup.
• Accompany with garlic bread or breadsticks for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with a glass of red wine to elevate the dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Pasta Fagioli freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
   Yes! Fresh vegetables can enhance the flavor; just make sure to chop them finely.
2. What kind of pasta works best?
   Any pasta shape will work, but small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are traditional.
3. Can I make this on the stovetop?
   Yes, simply simmer everything in a large pot for about 1 hour, adding the pasta in the last 10 minutes.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all canned products are gluten-free.
5. How spicy is this dish?
   The spiciness largely depends on the amount of Tabasco sauce you add; feel free to adjust it to your taste.
6. Can I add cheese?
   Yes! Add shredded cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan just before serving for extra creaminess.
7. What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli?
   It pairs well with garlic bread, a green salad, or even a side of antipasto.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
9. Can I use different types of meat?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be great alternatives.
10. Is this recipe healthy?
    It’s quite nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, making it a hearty yet healthy choice.

Conclusion

Pasta Fagioli is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl! With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, you’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out. So gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will adore. Bon appétit!

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