Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This hearty soup features flavorful Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers incredible taste that improves as it sits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is full of protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that keeps hunger at bay.
• Flavor-Packed: With the combination of spices and Italian sausage, every spoonful bursts with authentic flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed since everything cooks in one pot—less time washing dishes!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with your favorite veggies or beans based on what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Essential for cooking a large batch of soup. It allows all ingredients to blend well together.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot. It helps break up the sausage easily during cooking.
• Knife and cutting board: Important for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

To create this delicious Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 24 ounce jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
• 1 quart beef broth
• 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Pasta and Beans

• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 15 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• Finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large stock pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns. Once browned, drain off the fat and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the pot. Then add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until the onions are translucent and the veggies begin to soften, about 5–6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned sausage to the pan along with spaghetti sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing to low heat. Cover and let it simmer until vegetables are tender—approximately 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

While the soup simmers, prepare ditalini pasta according to package directions for an al dente finish.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Beans

Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it to the soup along with both types of beans. Allow everything to cook together for a few more minutes; if desired, thin with water.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Ladle into bowls and top each serving with freshly grated cheese. Enjoy your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit various tastes. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Add a Dash of Spice

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, serve with crushed red pepper flakes on the side for guests to add as they like.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty artisan bread or garlic bread for dipping in the soup.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Cheese: Offer finely shredded Romano or Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top before serving for added richness.

Accompany with Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the soup well.

Enjoy as Leftovers

• Reheat and Serve: This soup tastes even better the next day, so save leftovers for an easy reheating option!

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for more robust flavors.
• Adjust Broth Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth; if you like it thinner, add more broth or water.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to rest after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to use different beans like cannellini or black beans to change up the texture.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to retain freshness for a few days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a nutritious balance and vibrant colors.
4. Cheese Toasts: Toasted bread topped with melted cheese creates a delightful cheesy snack.
5. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can serve as a refreshing side dish alongside your hot soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies offer another hearty option.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats can be great for sharing before the main dish.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes and basil make for an inviting starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown the sausage well before adding other ingredients.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture by keeping an eye on cooking times.

• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth can dull the overall taste of your soup. Choose a high-quality beef broth or homemade stock for richer flavor.

• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can result in a flat taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust salt and pepper levels throughout cooking to enhance flavors.

• Ignoring pasta cooking instructions: Overcooking ditalini pasta can ruin its texture in the soup. Follow package directions closely for an al dente finish.

• Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving soup out too long can lead to spoilage. Store it promptly to keep it fresh and delicious.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a hearty Italian soup made with sausage, pasta, beans, and vegetables simmered in a tasty tomato broth.

Can I customize my Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using turkey sausage instead of mild Italian sausage for a leaner option.

How do I store leftover Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage?

Store leftover Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I make Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage without meat?

Absolutely! You can omit the sausage and add more beans or vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version of this classic soup.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is not only a comforting meal but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers—its flavors deepen over time! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warm, hearty goodness any night of the week.