Hearty Pasta e Fagioli: A Cozy Italian Classic Recipe

Name: Pasta e Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) whole canned tomatoes; 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup ditalini pasta; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

October 11, 2025

Updated:

October 11, 2025

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Pasta e Fagioli is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with its rich flavors and hearty texture enveloping you in comfort. Imagine the savory aroma of beans simmering with garlic and herbs, wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table.

This Italian classic isn’t just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to family dinners where laughter mingled with the clinking of bowls. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Pasta e Fagioli promises to elevate any occasion into a culinary celebration.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful Pasta e Fagioli recipe is both simple to prepare and packed with flavor that will impress your family.
The colorful ingredients create an inviting presentation that whets the appetite.
It’s versatile enough for any season and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy the comforting warmth of this dish any day of the week!

I remember one rainy evening when I decided to whip up Pasta e Fagioli for my friends. The smiles on their faces as they savored each bite were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and health benefits.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring color and natural sweetness; dice them small.
Celery: This aromatic vegetable adds depth; use crisp stalks for the best crunch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor; mince them finely for maximum impact.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose whole tomatoes for more texture; crush them by hand or in a pot.
Canned Cannellini Beans: These creamy beans are essential; rinse them well before adding to the pot.
Pasta (Ditalini): Small pasta shapes work best; cook it al dente for perfect texture.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for more control over saltiness; homemade is best if you have it!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds authentic flavor; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings bring all the flavors together; taste as you go!
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grate fresh cheese on top before serving for an extra touch of richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Pasta e Fagioli

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious Pasta e Fagioli.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then add crushed canned tomatoes along with their juice, stirring well.

Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, bringing everything to a simmer. Allow it to bubble gently for about 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Add Beans and Pasta: Toss in rinsed cannellini beans followed by ditalini pasta. Cook according to package directions until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Season and Serve: Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy while warm!

This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not just food—it’s comfort served in a bowl!

Content

Using high-quality beans enhances the flavor and texture of Pasta e Fagioli, making it truly unforgettable. I learned this after several trials with subpar beans—what a difference!

Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens the dish and elevates its aroma. My grandmother swore by this, and she always knew best.

Adjusting the thickness of the soup to suit your taste can turn it into a hearty meal or a light starter. I once made it too thick, and let’s just say my friends had a lot of fun trying to scoop it up.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add beans and broth. Simmer before adding pasta for optimal flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different beans or add greens like spinach for extra nutrition. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add a delightful zing.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low heat, adding water if it thickened too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When selecting pasta, choose one that holds sauce well; penne works beautifully.
Always taste as you go; seasoning adjustments make all the difference.
Consider making a double batch; it freezes wonderfully for busy nights!

I remember serving this dish at a family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds—truly heartwarming to see them enjoy my cooking!

FAQ

What type of beans are best for Pasta e Fagioli?

Cannellini beans are traditional, but any white bean will work well in this recipe.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan option.

How long does Pasta e Fagioli last in the fridge?

It lasts about three to four days when stored properly in an airtight container.

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