Name: Pasta and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (Can substitute with lean turkey.); 1.5 C yellow onion (chopped); 2 medium carrots (diced, about 1 cup); 3 stalks celery (diced, about 1 cup); 3 Tbsp garlic (minced); 3 cans tomato sauce (8 oz each); 2 cans chicken broth (14.5 oz each); 0.5 C water (More as needed.); 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (15 oz); 2 tsp sugar; 1.5 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 0.75 tsp dried thyme; 0.5 tsp dried marjoram; to taste Salt; to taste black pepper; 1.5 C dry ditalini pasta (Can use gluten-free pasta as an alternative.); 2 cans dark red kidney beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed); 2 cans great northern beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed); Shredded Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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Pasta and Bean Soup is more than just a hearty meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, perfect for those bustling weeknights when you crave something filling but don’t have hours to spend cooking. The combination of tender pasta, rich beans, and flavorful broth makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or need a nutritious option for your family, this soup truly delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This pasta and bean soup is not your average weeknight dinner—it’s an experience. Not only is it incredibly budget-friendly, but it also comes together in just under an hour, making it a perfect solution for busy evenings. Utilizing pantry staples, it ensures that you can whip up a delicious and nourishing meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.

"This soup is a hit with my entire family! Even my picky eater devoured it in minutes!"

Imagine a cozy evening where the whole family gathers around for a delicious bowl of warmth. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between being filling and healthy, thanks to the added veggies and beans. In fact, it’s the ideal dish for those chilly weekends or casual gatherings with friends.

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Pasta and Bean Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a quick glimpse into the process:

Sauté your vegetables and ground beef until flavorful.
Add in your broth, sauces, and seasonings to develop a deep flavor.
Let everything simmer to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, incorporate the pasta and beans to complete the dish.

This easy-to-follow approach makes it simple for even beginner cooks to achieve excellent results.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items before you begin:

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
1 1/2 C yellow onion (chopped)
2 medium carrots (diced, about 1 cup)
3 stalks celery (diced, about 1 cup)
3 TBSP garlic (minced)
3 cans tomato sauce (8 oz each)
2 cans chicken broth (14.5 oz each)
1/2 C water (more as needed)
1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (15 oz)
2 tsp sugar
1 1/2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
3/4 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried marjoram
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 1/2 C dry ditalini pasta
2 cans dark red kidney beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
2 cans great northern beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
Shredded Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Feel free to substitute lean turkey for the beef or use gluten-free pasta to cater to specific dietary needs.

Cooking Instructions

Bowl of homemade Pasta Bean Soup with fresh herbs and vegetables

In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Crumble the ground beef into the pot and cook until browned through; drain and set aside.
In the same pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery, and sauté until they start to soften (about 6 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and water, along with the fire-roasted tomatoes.
Add the sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Stir well to combine.
Return the beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with the lid.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender, stirring occasionally.
While the soup simmers, cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Add both types of beans into the soup, followed by the cooked pasta. If the soup is too thick, thin it with a bit more broth or water.
Simmer for an additional minute, then stir in some fresh parsley.
Serve into individual bowls and top each with shredded Parmesan cheese. Enjoy warm!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this flavorful soup hot, adorned with a sprinkle of Parmesan or Romano cheese for an extra layer of richness. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for a pop of freshness.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is common since this recipe makes a hearty pot!), store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore its perfect consistency.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
If you love extra flavor, sauté your garlic before adding in the veggies for a more aromatic base.
This soup can easily be adapted for vegetarian diets; simply skip the ground beef and increase the vegetables or beans as desired.

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize this soup according to your taste! Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini, or swap in different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans. For a smoky touch, toss in some crumbled bacon or smoked sausage!

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation typically takes about 15 minutes, followed by a cooking time of around 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup stores very well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Lean turkey or plant-based ground meat is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

This Pasta and Bean Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home, offering warmth, nutrition, and delightful flavors with every bite! Happy cooking!