Craving a hearty, delicious, and satisfying soup? Try this Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup recipe, inspired by the classic Italian-American dish from your favorite restaurant. This flavorful soup combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and a savory tomato broth, making it perfect for a comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Add carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, cannellini beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until al dente.
- Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth or add a splash of red wine.
- Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup provides a comforting mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for a filling lunch or a cozy dinner!