Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian-inspired soup featuring ground beef, beans, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups beef broth
1 cup ditalini or elbow pasta
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to your slow cooker.
2. Incorporate Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Mix Ingredients:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, cannellini beans, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Slow Cook:
Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Prepare Pasta:
Approximately 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta in a separate pot until al dente. Drain and mix it into the slow cooker.
6. Serve:
Combine all ingredients, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside crusty bread or a side salad.
Savor this delicious and filling soup! Would you like suggestions for variations or tips on this recipe?
