A Comforting and Satisfying Italian Soup
Pasta e Fagioli, meaning “pasta and beans,” is a classic Italian soup that’s both hearty and delicious. This slow cooker version makes it even easier to prepare while letting the flavors develop throughout the day. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this soup is packed with tender pasta, savory beans, vegetables, and rich Italian herbs in a tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef, optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ditalini or small pasta
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)