Pasta Fagioli(Pasta With Beans)
Creamy pasta fagioli features hearty beans and vegetables with tender macaroni, infused with garlic and herbs, perfect for comforting family meals or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer chopped garlic in olive oil.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, red and black pepper. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Add drained beans and chicken broth. Continue simmering, checking occasionally and adding water if needed.
- While the soup simmers, cook macaroni shells until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the bean and vegetable mixture.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier texture, consider adding diced potatoes or zucchini. If Great Northern beans aren't available, cannellini beans are a great substitute. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; try adding basil or thyme. Adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick. This dish also works well with a splash of Italian Gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pasta Fagioli hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider serving alongside a portion of Mixed Veggie Pasta to increase your veggie intake. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Fagioli(Pasta With Beans) contains roughly 198 calories, with 9g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (100% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and calcium (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2615mg per serving (114% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This will require additional cooking time, so plan accordingly, as dried beans need to be fully cooked before being added to the broth.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying. You can also enhance the taste with additional herbs or spices to mimic the depth that chicken broth provides.
Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?
Yes, you can freeze Pasta Fagioli! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water as needed to adjust consistency.
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).