If you are craving a comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe. Packed with rich flavors from tender ground beef, wholesome beans, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, this stew is not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. Every spoonful bursts with a beautiful blend of textures and savory notes that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings together simple ingredients into a soul-nourishing bowl of goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures in your stew. Each element plays a crucial role in making this dish truly special—from the hearty ground beef that adds richness to the beans that provide creaminess and protein, to the fresh vegetables that offer a delightful crunch and color.
- 2 lbs. ground beef: Choose lean or regular depending on your preference for flavor and fat content.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 3 carrots, chopped: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
- 4 stalks of celery, chopped: Provide a mild, refreshing crunch and aromatic base.
- 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained: Offers a robust tomato flavor and juicy texture to the broth.
- 1 (16 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds hearty texture and a nice protein punch.
- 1 (16 ounce) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Complements with a creamier, softer bean texture.
- 3 (10 ounce) cans beef stock: Creates a rich and savory broth base.
- 3 tsp. oregano: Infuses a warm, earthy herbal note to the stew.
- 2 tsp. pepper: Adds a subtle kick and spices up the flavor profile.
- 5 tsp. parsley: Freshens and brightens the overall taste.
- 1 tsp. Tabasco sauce (optional): For those who like to add a little heat and complexity.
- 1 (20 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce: Boosts the tomato base with added herbs and a hint of sweetness.
- 8 ounces of pasta: Traditionally small shapes like ditalini work best to soak up that delicious broth.
How to Make Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it is evenly browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart gently with your spoon. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat. This step builds the stew’s meaty foundation and helps develop deep, savory flavors right from the start.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Transfer the browned ground beef into your crock pot. Now add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (remember to include the juices!), both types of kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, and if you want a little kick, the Tabasco sauce. Finish by pouring in the jar of spaghetti sauce. Give everything a good stir so all those flavorful components get well combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crock pot on low, letting it work its magic for 7 to 8 hours. If you’re pressed for time, high heat for 4 to 5 hours will do the trick too. This slow cooking process tenderizes the vegetables and melds the flavors into a luscious, hearty stew you’ll adore.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
About 30 minutes before you want to serve, add the pasta directly to the crock pot. Stir it gently so that every little piece gets coated with the savory broth. Cooking the pasta this way ensures it absorbs all the rich flavors without becoming mushy. It’s the final touch that makes this recipe so comforting and delicious.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once the pasta is tender and the stew has thickened to your liking, it’s time to ladle it into bowls. Serve it hot, ideally with a side of crusty warm bread to mop up every last drop. This is the ultimate comfort food that’s bound to bring smiles and full bellies around the table.
How to Serve Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your stew even more, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a grating of Parmesan cheese on top. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of good olive oil also adds a nice creamy contrast to the robust flavors. These simple garnishes transform your dish into something that feels extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Serve this stew with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a fresh green salad. The bread is perfect for scooping up the hearty mixture while the salad adds a refreshing, crisp element that balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming, rustic look, serve your portion in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also gives you some irresistible bread to scoop up the stew. Or, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh basil leaves for a colorful and fragrant presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe, simply cool the leftovers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days, perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags before adding the pasta (pasta can become mushy after freezing). Freeze for up to 3 months for a convenient, ready-to-go comfort meal anytime you need it.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until steaming hot. Add fresh pasta during reheating to keep that perfect texture or allow leftover pasta to soak up the flavors if you included it before freezing.
FAQs
Can I use different types of beans for this stew?
Absolutely! While red and white kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute or add cannellini, chickpeas, or navy beans to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Just be sure to rinse canned beans well before adding them.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Definitely! Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef stock for a rich, hearty vegetarian version.
What pasta works best for Pasta Fagioli?
Small pasta shapes work best to complement the stew’s chunky texture. Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells soak up the broth nicely without overpowering the beans and vegetables.
Can I make this stew in a regular pot instead of a crock pot?
You can! Brown the beef and veggies as directed, then simmer everything together in a large pot over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Add the pasta towards the end and cook until tender.
How spicy is the stew with Tabasco sauce added?
Adding a teaspoon of Tabasco provides a gentle, tangy heat that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust this amount or omit it completely depending on your preference for spice.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe is truly a winner in any kitchen. It’s one of those wonderful dishes that feels like it’s been cooking for hours, developing rich, comforting flavors, even though it requires minimal effort. I encourage you to give it a try for your next cozy night in—you’ll find it’s the perfect meal to share, savor, and fall in love with over and over again.
Print
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Stew with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours (depending on crock pot setting)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Pasta Fagioli recipe that combines ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta slow-cooked to perfection in a flavorful tomato and beef broth base. This classic Italian-inspired soup is perfect for family meals and gatherings, delivering warmth and rich flavors in every bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks of celery, chopped
- 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (16 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (16 ounce) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 (10 ounce) cans beef stock
- 1 (20 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 8 ounces of pasta
Seasonings
- 3 tsp. oregano
- 2 tsp. pepper
- 5 tsp. parsley
- 1 tsp. Tabasco sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain the excess fat to reduce grease and set aside the browned meat.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot. Transfer the browned beef into a crock pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with juices), red and white kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, optional Tabasco sauce, and spaghetti sauce to the crock pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook the Soup. Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat setting. Cook for 7-8 hours, or alternatively set to high heat setting and cook for 4-5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and ingredients to become tender.
- Add Pasta Near End of Cooking. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the crock pot, stirring well so it integrates evenly. Allow the pasta to cook through in the hot broth during the last half hour.
- Serve Warm. Once the pasta is tender, ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls and serve hot. Complement the meal with some crusty warm bread for dipping and extra comfort.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap ground beef for plant-based protein and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
- Adjust Tabasco sauce quantity to control the heat level.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of beef stock or cook uncovered during the last hour.
- Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni for an authentic texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
