Pasta Fagioli Made With Spaghetti Sauce
Are you looking for a comforting and filling meal that will warm your soul on a cold winter day? Look no further than pasta fagioli, a classic Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This recipe puts a twist on the traditional dish, using spaghetti sauce instead of diced tomatoes for added depth of flavor. Read on to learn how to make this delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the cannellini beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce, chicken broth, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes.
- Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and let cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations:
There are many ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.
- Try using a different pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni or small shells, in place of the ditalini pasta.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added color and freshness.
Conclusion:
Pasta fagioli made with spaghetti sauce is a delicious and hearty meal that is sure to please the whole family. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Give it a try and let us know what you think!