There’s something irresistibly comforting about a steaming bowl of Pasta e Fagioli-a traditional Italian soup that brings together humble ingredients in a symphony of flavor and heartiness.Now, imagine this classic elevated with the addition of savory ground beef, transforming it into a rich, satisfying meal that warms both body and soul. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this beloved dish, uncover the secrets behind its deep, layered flavors, and guide you thru making your own hearty Pasta e Fagioli with ground beef at home-a true party of rustic, soulful cooking that’s perfect for any day craving something both nourishing and delicious.

Hearty Pasta e Fagioli with Ground Beef: A Flavorful Classic

Hearty Pasta e Fagioli with Ground Beef creates a soul-warming symphony of textures and tastes, combining tender pasta, creamy beans, and richly seasoned ground beef for a truly comforting meal. This traditional italian-inspired soup is a beloved favorite, celebrated not only for its satisfying heartiness but also for its remarkable ability to bring family and friends together around the table on crisp evenings.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Yield

serves 6 generously-perfect for a family dinner or leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Difficulty Level

Medium – approachable for home cooks familiar with basic sautéing and simmering techniques.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean for ideal richness without excess fat)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta or small tubular pasta
• 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1½ tsp kosher salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
2. Brown the beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef in small batches. Break it up with a wooden spoon and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning and rich flavor advancement. drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add tomatoes and herbs: Stir in the tomato paste until well combined, then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the dried oregano, thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Incorporate broth and beans: Pour in the beef broth followed by the cooked cannellini beans. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer, adjusting heat to maintain a low boil. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes to deepen flavor and slightly reduce the liquid.
5. Add pasta and fresh parsley: Stir in the ditalini pasta and fresh parsley. Continue simmering for another 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender yet firm (al dente). Keep an eye on the texture to prevent overcooking and pasta mushiness.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hearty pasta e fagioli with ground beef into bowls, drizzle a touch of olive oil, and garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired for a luscious finish.

Chef’s Notes: Tips for Success

• Choosing the beef: select fresh,lean ground beef (around 85% lean) for a balance of flavor and fat that enriches the broth without making it greasy.
• Balancing beans and pasta: Use slightly less pasta than beans to maintain a creamy, hearty mouthfeel – the beans build creaminess while pasta provides chew and bite.
• Fresh herbs are key: Adding fresh rosemary and parsley at the end brightens the deep, meaty base and lifts traditional flavors to an elevated level.
• Simmer gently: A slow simmer allows flavors to meld fully without breaking down the beans or overcooking pasta, preserving that perfect rustic texture.
• Make-ahead magic: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if soup thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant bowl of hearty pasta e fagioli with ground beef with crusty whole-grain bread or toasted garlic ciabatta for dipping.Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy, appetizing finish.A crisp, simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the rich soup.

For more comforting Italian classics,explore our Classic minestrone soup Recipe. Expand your knowledge on bean nutrition from the Harvard Nutrition Source.

Q&A

Q&A: Hearty Pasta e Fagioli with Ground Beef – A Flavorful Classic

Q1: What exactly is Pasta e Fagioli, and what makes this version with ground beef special?
A1: Pasta e Fagioli, meaning “pasta and beans” in Italian, is a beloved rustic soup that’s all about comfort and simplicity. traditionally made with beans, pasta, and veggies, this version adds ground beef to create a richer, heartier meal. The beef brings a savory depth and satisfying protein boost that transforms the dish from a light soup into a robust, one-pot dinner perfect for chilly evenings.

Q2: Which types of beans work best in this hearty dish?
A2: Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans are classic choices for Pasta e Fagioli thanks to their creamy texture and mild flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking and blend beautifully with the ground beef, soaking up all those flavors without overpowering the dish.

Q3: What kind of pasta pairs well with the beans and ground beef?
A3: Small, tender pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo are ideal.Their petite size allows them to mingle effortlessly with beans and beef,creating a harmonious medley of textures in every spoonful. Plus, these pasta shapes cook quickly and evenly, perfect for a comforting soup.

Q4: How can I layer flavors to make this Pasta e Fagioli truly rich and satisfying?
A4: Start by browning the ground beef to develop a deep, caramelized flavor. Sauté aromatics like garlic, onions, and celery alongside the beef to build a fragrant base. Incorporate herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves for earthiness. Finish with a splash of tomato paste and some crushed tomatoes to add brightness and richness. A slow simmer allows all these notes to meld beautifully.

Q5: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free or accommodate other dietary needs?
A5: Absolutely! Swap the traditional pasta for gluten-free varieties made from rice or corn, or use small gluten-free grains like quinoa or millet to keep that hearty feel. The beans and ground beef provide ample protein, making the dish naturally gluten-free aside from the pasta choice. For a lower-carb option, spiralized vegetables or chopped cauliflower can be a creative substitute.

Q6: What sides or garnishes complement Pasta e Fagioli with ground beef?
A6: Crisp, fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated hard cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano) add a bright, savory finish. Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic-roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving also lifts the flavors beautifully.

Q7: Can I prepare Pasta e Fagioli with ground beef ahead of time?
A7: Yes! This dish actually benefits from resting, as the flavors intensify overnight. Prepare it a day ahead and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick. Just add the pasta in the last few minutes of reheating to keep it tender and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Q8: Why is Pasta e Fagioli considered a comfort food staple around the world?
A8: Its timeless appeal lies in simplicity, heartiness, and nostalgia. Combining humble ingredients like beans, pasta, and meat creates a nourishing, satisfying meal that warms both body and soul. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of creamy beans, tender pasta, and savory beef – a classic comfort that transcends cultures and seasons.

Insights and Conclusions

whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a comforting weeknight meal, this hearty Pasta e Fagioli with ground beef is more than just a soup-it’s a celebration of timeless Italian flavors and wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Its rich, savory broth paired with tender beans, pasta, and a satisfying touch of ground beef makes it a versatile classic that nourishes both body and soul. So next time you crave something warm,filling,and deeply flavorful,let this rustic dish remind you why some recipes never go out of style. Buon appetito!