Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a warm and cozy dish filled with tender pasta, hearty beans, and yummy sausage. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that fills your belly and warms your heart!
I love making this dish when the weather gets chilly. It’s easy to whip up in one pot, and your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks. Perfect for sharing with friends or family! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage to match your taste. If you want a lighter option, lean turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian dish, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms to add a meaty texture.
Beans: Cannellini beans are traditional, but any white bean like great northern or navy beans will work. If you want extra fiber, add chickpeas instead! They add a nice twist too.
Pasta: I love small pasta, like elbow macaroni or ditalini. If you need gluten-free options, use quinoa or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they can vary.
Broth: Chicken broth adds a rich flavor, but vegetable broth is great if you’re veggie! Homemade broth can make a big difference in taste too.
How Can I Ensure the Perfect Texture for My Pasta?
The trick to perfect pasta in your soup is cooking it just right. You want it al dente, meaning it should still be firm to the bite. Here’s how:
- Add the pasta in the last part of the cooking process to prevent it from overcooking.
- Check the package instructions for cooking times. Start checking a minute or two earlier than suggested, as it continues cooking in the hot soup.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
By being mindful about the timing, you’ll have a deliciously comforting Pasta Fagioli every time!
Pasta Fagioli With Sausage
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pasta Fagioli with Sausage will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to cook. So you’ll have it ready in just about 45 minutes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant. This is where the magic starts! Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s nice and aromatic.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Stir everything together well.
4. Bring to a Simmer:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together nicely.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Next, add in the drained beans and small pasta. Cook everything for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still has a bit of a bite (al dente). Make sure to keep an eye on it, as different pasta shapes cook at different rates.
6. Season and Garnish:
Give your delicious soup a taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm and hearty Pasta Fagioli into bowls and top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can never have too much cheese! Enjoy your comforting dish to the last spoonful!
Bon Appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a flavorful variety to keep the dish delicious!
What Can I Substitute for the Pasta?
If you’re looking to make it gluten-free or just want a change, you can use quinoa, rice, or even zucchini noodles. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just add them when you sauté the others to ensure they are cooked through and flavorful.