Pasta E Fagioli(Macaroni And Bean Soup)
A hearty Italian-inspired soup with beans, pasta, and savory bacon, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil, add chopped garlic and chopped bacon.
- Saute until bacon is partially crisp, not burned.
- Add tomato sauce and saute over low heat for 30 seconds.
- Add drained and rinsed cannellini beans, chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook for approximately 30 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook until tender before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for more depth. If you don't have ditalini pasta, you can substitute with small shells or elbow macaroni. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add chopped carrots and celery for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Pasta E Fagioli with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top elevates the dish. It pairs wonderfully with Italian recipes that feature robust flavors, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The pasta may absorb some liquid, so adjust accordingly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta E Fagioli(Macaroni And Bean Soup) contains roughly 2226 calories, with 13g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 218g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 653mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other varieties like kidney beans or navy beans. Each type will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the soup, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Pasta E Fagioli gluten-free, simply swap the ditalini pasta for a gluten-free pasta option. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I freeze Pasta E Fagioli?
Yes, you can freeze Pasta E Fagioli. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).