Introduction
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite? Look no further than this delicious Pasta Fagioli! Packed with flavor, nutritious ingredients, and a touch of Italian flair, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for any night of the week, let’s dive into the recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 (28 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (16 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (16 oz) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 (10 oz) cans beef stock
- 3 tsp oregano
- 2 tsp pepper
- 5 tsp parsley
- 1 tsp Tabasco sauce (optional)
- 1 (20 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz pasta
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef:
1. Cook the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain the fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
Combine Ingredients:
2. Add to Crockpot: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with their juice), both types of kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, Tabasco sauce (if using), and the jar of spaghetti sauce to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
Cook Low and Slow:
3. Slow Cook: Set your crockpot to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add the Pasta:
4. Finish Cooking: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the pasta to the crockpot. Let it cook until it’s tender.
Serve and Enjoy:
5. Serve: Dish up your Pasta Fagioli with some warm, crusty bread. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Pro Tip
Pasta Fagioli freezes wonderfully, so make a big batch and freeze the leftovers! This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for those busy nights when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
Why You’ll Love Pasta Fagioli
1. Easy and Convenient
This Pasta Fagioli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal cooking away in your crockpot, leaving you free to tackle other tasks. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to clean up!
2. Nutritious and Filling
Packed with vegetables, beans, and lean ground beef, this dish is as nutritious as it is filling. The combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins will keep you satisfied and energized.
3. Versatile and Adaptable
Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Don’t like kidney beans? Swap them out for cannellini beans. Want to add more veggies? Go ahead and toss in some spinach or zucchini. The possibilities are endless!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Pasta Fagioli is an excellent meal prep option. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you’ll have lunches or dinners sorted for the week. It also freezes well, so you can have a tasty, homemade meal ready in minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking to cut down on red meat. It’ll still be delicious and hearty.
Q: What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
A: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best. They cook quickly and blend well with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
A: Yes, you can! Simply brown the beef in a large pot, then add the rest of the ingredients (except the pasta). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 1-2 hours. Add the pasta in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
There you have it—Pasta Fagioli: A Hit for Dinner! This delicious Pasta Fagioli is sure to be a favorite! It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Easy to make, nutritious, and adaptable, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home. So, why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you! 🍲🍝
