Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

A rich and hearty soup, this Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for lunchtime, it can also serve as a starter or a complete dish on its own. This recipe combines tender pasta and nutritious beans in a flavorful broth, making it both comforting and satisfying for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: Packed with savory ingredients, each spoonful delivers a burst of comforting flavors.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it’s great for family dinners or as leftovers for lunch.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With beans and vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or similar stockpot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Can opener
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering; its heavy bottom prevents burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Can opener: A must-have tool to easily open canned ingredients like tomatoes and beans.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe:

• 1 lb ground beef (454 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (422 g)
• 15 oz can tomato sauce (422 g)
• 4 cups chicken broth (946 ml)
• 15 oz can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained (425 g)
• 15 oz can Kidney beans, rinsed and drained (425 g)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (100 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a 5-quart Dutch oven or similar stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Stir regularly to break up any large clumps.
3. Once cooked through, remove the beef from the pot and drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Return the Dutch oven to medium heat.
1. Add the diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
2. Sauté while stirring regularly for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce back into the Dutch oven along with the cooked ground beef.
1. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Next, add both kidney beans and Great Northern beans along with chicken broth.
1. Stir everything together thoroughly.
2. Allow it to simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

After simmering for ten minutes,
1. Add in ditalini pasta along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring back to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional ten minutes.

Step 6: Finish Up

Finally,
1. Stir in fresh chopped basil just before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup made in a Dutch oven!

How to Serve Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

This Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to consider.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm, buttered, and topped with minced garlic for a flavorful touch.
• Baguette Slices – Crunchy baguette slices pair perfectly, allowing you to scoop up the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for a nutty flavor that complements the soup.
• Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella adds creaminess; simply place a slice on top before serving.

As a Meal Starter

• Small Bowls – Serve in smaller bowls as an appetizer before the main course to whet the appetite.
• With Salad – Pair with a light salad for a balanced start to your meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• Edible Bowls – Serve this soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an impressive and tasty presentation.

How to Perfect Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

To make sure your Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor; avoid canned options if possible.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – For a firmer texture, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

This rich soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances the heartiness of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses makes for a delightful accompaniment.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms offer an elegant touch that complements the main dish.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits bring comfort and can be used for dipping into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can make it mushy. Add the pasta towards the end of cooking to keep it al dente.
• Not draining beans properly: If you don’t rinse and drain your canned beans well, they can add excess sodium and affect the soup’s flavor. Always rinse them under cold water.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh basil will lessen the soup’s aroma and taste. Always opt for fresh when possible for that added flavor punch.
• Neglecting to season in layers: Adding all the seasoning at once may not distribute well. Season throughout the cooking process for a more balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: The chicken broth is a key ingredient. Low-quality broth can lead to bland soup. Use a good-quality, flavorful broth for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Will last for 3-4 months in the freezer.

Reheating Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat in a saucepan until heated thoroughly, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While Great Northern and kidney beans are traditional, you can use any beans you prefer or have on hand.

How do I customize this Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even swap ground beef for turkey or sausage for different flavors.

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from beans and beef while being low in calories, making it a nutritious meal option.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does this soup take to make?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for quick meals!

Final Thoughts

The Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe is a hearty dish full of flavor that can serve as a lunch staple or dinner favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try it out; you might just find your new go-to comfort food!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup Dutch Oven Recipe, a heartwarming dish that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and nutritious beans in a rich broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful combination of Italian-inspired ingredients, making it a versatile addition to any table. Serve it as a main course or alongside crusty bread and a salad for a complete dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 15 oz can Great Northern beans
• 15 oz can kidney beans
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté carrots, onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce along with the cooked beef.
4. Add both types of beans and chicken broth; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Incorporate ditalini pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg