Pasta Fagioli (pronounced pasta fah-joh-lee) is a classic Italian comfort food that combines tender pasta, beans, vegetables, and ground beef simmered in a rich tomato broth. This cozy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled & diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or great northern beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (more to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or elbow)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in pasta and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, until pasta is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
This Pasta Fagioli is hearty, filling, and budget-friendly – a true Italian hug in a bowl that the whole family will love.
