Pasta Fagioli is a classic Italian comfort dish that combines hearty beans and tender pasta in a savory broth. This version, inspired by Dom DeLuise’s beloved recipe, brings warmth and rich flavors to our table with every spoonful. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy on chilly evenings or whenever we crave something both satisfying and simple.
Dom DeLuise, known for his love of good food and family gatherings, made this Pasta Fagioli recipe a staple in his home. By blending fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, this dish captures the essence of Italian home cooking. Let’s dive into making this timeless recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in our own kitchens.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli that captures the rich flavors and comforting essence of this classic Italian dish, we carefully select every ingredient. Below is a detailed breakdown to guide us through assembling the perfect bowl.
Pasta
The pasta chosen for Pasta Fagioli is small and tender, designed to soak up the savory broth without overpowering the beans.
- 1 cup small ditalini pasta (or elbow macaroni)
- Use uncooked pasta to ensure proper cooking time within the soup for a perfect al dente texture.
Beans
Beans are the star of this dish, lending a hearty, creamy texture and nutritional value.
| Type of Beans | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Cannellini beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Great Northern beans | 1/2 cup dried* | Soaked overnight |
*Using a combination of canned and dried beans enhances texture and flavor depth.
Vegetables
Vegetables provide a robust foundation for flavor, enriching the broth and complementing the beans and pasta.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
Broth and Seasonings
The broth and seasonings bring the dish to life with warmth and depth, true to Dom DeLuise’s beloved recipe.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for slight heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
To finish the dish with authenticity and a touch of elegance, we recommend the following garnishes:
- Freshly chopped parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly cracked black pepper
With these ingredients lined up, we ensure our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli will be a flavorful, heartwarming experience just like the beloved classic.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Using proper tools ensures smooth preparation and helps achieve the authentic rustic texture and rich flavors this classic Italian dish is known for.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Use a heavy-bottomed pot 5 to 6 quarts in size to evenly cook the beans, vegetables, and pasta without burning the broth.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife for chopping onions, celery, carrots, and garlic with precision.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy board to safely prepare all fresh ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup gently without damaging the pot or breaking the pasta.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for broth, olive oil, and seasonings ensure balanced flavor.
- Colander or Fine Mesh Strainer: To rinse canned beans and drain cooked pasta.
- Ladle: For serving generous portions of this comforting soup.
- Mixing Bowl: Useful if soaking dried beans or combining ingredients before adding them to the pot.
Optional But Helpful
- Immersion Blender: If you prefer a slightly creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup briefly. This step is optional and adjusts texture without altering the classic taste.
- Grater: To finely grate fresh Parmesan cheese for garnish.
- Herb Scissors: To quickly chop fresh basil or parsley as a final touch.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Stockpot/Dutch Oven | Simmer beans, vegetables, broth & pasta |
| Chef’s Knife | Chop vegetables and garlic |
| Cutting Board | Prep fresh ingredients |
| Wooden Spoon | Stir the soup gently |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure liquids, oils, and seasonings |
| Colander/Strainer | Rinse beans and drain pasta |
| Ladle | Serve soup efficiently |
| Mixing Bowl | Prepare ingredients or soak beans |
| Immersion Blender (Optional) | Adjust soup’s texture |
| Grater (Optional) | Fresh Parmesan garnish |
| Herb Scissors (Optional) | Chop fresh herbs easily |
Equipping ourselves with these tools will make cooking the Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli effortless and enjoyable. This foundation lets our ingredients shine while maintaining the authentic spirit of the recipe.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli recipe, proper preparation is essential to ensure each element contributes perfectly to the final dish. Let’s begin with the foundation — the beans, vegetables, and precise ingredient measurements.
Preparing the Beans
The heart of Pasta Fagioli is its varied beans, delivering texture and flavor depth. For this recipe, we use a blend of canned cannellini and dried navy beans to balance creaminess with slight bite.
-
Dried Navy Beans:
- Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
- Soak overnight in 4 cups of water or use the quick-soak method by boiling for 2 minutes then letting them sit, covered, for 1 hour.
- Drain and rinse before cooking.
-
Canned Cannellini Beans:
- Drain and rinse well to reduce excess sodium.
Preparing these beans properly ensures our broth achieves that signature rustic texture and rich flavor noted in Dom DeLuise’s original dish.
Chopping the Vegetables
Fresh vegetables impart aromatic complexity to our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli. Precision in chopping ensures even cooking and texture harmony.
| Vegetable | Prep Instructions | Size/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Onion | Peel and finely dice | Small dice (about 1/4 inch) |
| Garlic | Peel and mince | Fine mince |
| Celery | Wash, trim ends, and dice | Small dice (1/4 inch) |
| Carrots | Wash, peel, and dice | Small dice (1/4 inch) |
Tip: Uniform vegetable pieces promote even cooking, preventing some from becoming mushy while others stay tough.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements guarantee the flavors meld perfectly, staying true to the Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli heritage. Use kitchen scales and measuring spoons/cups for consistency.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Low-Sodium Chicken Broth | 6 cups |
| Ditalini or Elbow Macaroni | 1 cup dry |
| Dried Navy Beans | 1/2 cup dry |
| Canned Cannellini Beans | 1 can (15 ounces) |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
| Carrots | 2 medium |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
Pro tip: Measure liquids in a clear jug and dry ingredients on a flat surface for accurate readings. This helps us maintain the authentic balance of flavors cherished in this classic Italian dish.
Cooking Directions
Let’s walk through the essential steps to create Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli that captures all the heartwarming flavors and rustic charm of this Italian classic.
Sautéing Vegetables
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 diced celery stalks, and 2 diced carrots.
- Sauté for about 7-10 minutes until the vegetables become tender and translucent, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1 minute to unleash their aromatic richness.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil to infuse the base with classic Italian herbs.
Simmering the Beans and Broth
- Add 1 cup soaked and drained dried navy beans and 1 can (15 oz) rinsed cannellini beans to the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dried beans are tender and the broth is flavorful.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking the Pasta
- While the beans simmer, bring a separate large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of small ditalini pasta or elbow macaroni.
- Cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes, based on the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
Combining Ingredients
- Once the beans are tender, gradually add the cooked pasta into the bean and vegetable broth.
- Stir gently to combine allowing the pasta to absorb flavors.
- If desired, ladle about 1 cup of hot soup into a bowl and blend slightly with an immersion blender to create a thicker texture, then stir back into the pot.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot garnished with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for that authentic Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli finish.
| Step | Ingredient/Action | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sauté Vegetables | Onion, celery, carrots, garlic, herbs | 8-11 minutes | Until tender & aromatic |
| Simmer Beans & Broth | Navy & cannellini beans, broth, seasoning | 45-60 minutes | Until beans are soft |
| Cook Pasta | Ditalini or elbow macaroni | 7-9 minutes | Cook al dente, drain |
| Combine & Final Touches | Mix pasta with soup, blend if preferred | 5 minutes | Adjust seasoning, garnish |
Following these directions ensures we recreate Dom DeLuise’s beloved Pasta Fagioli with its signature hearty texture and rich Italian flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli, we recommend pairing it with complementary sides and garnishes that enhance both flavor and presentation. Here are some thoughtful serving ideas to elevate this classic Italian comfort dish.
Garnishing the Soup
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top to add a vibrant, herbal note.
- Parmesan Cheese: A generous grating of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth that melds perfectly with the savory broth.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzling a little high-quality olive oil over the bowl just before serving enriches the taste and gives a luscious finish.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a gentle kick and accentuates the flavors.
Accompaniments for a Complete Meal
Pairing Pasta Fagioli with the right sides creates a well-rounded dining experience. Consider serving:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Warm crusty bread rubbed with garlic and olive oil | Perfect for soaking up the rich broth |
| Mixed Green Salad | Tossed salad with lemon vinaigrette | Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast |
| Roasted Vegetables | Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers | Complements the hearty nature of the soup |
| Antipasto Platter | An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses | Offers a savory, textural variety as a starter |
Serving Temperature & Dishware
- Serve Pasta Fagioli hot to release its full aroma and allow the flavors to blend smoothly.
- Use deep soup bowls to hold the hearty soup generously. This ensures your guests can appreciate each spoonful of beans, pasta, and broth.
- Pair with a sturdy soup spoon for comfortable eating.
Quote to Inspire
As Dom DeLuise himself said, “Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness,” so let’s serve this dish with care and joy to make every meal special.
With these serving suggestions, our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli Recipe will shine as the centerpiece of a satisfying and memorable meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To fully enjoy our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli recipe any day of the week, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we preserve its rich, hearty flavors while maintaining ideal texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the soup fully following the recipe directions through the simmering stage.
- Cool the soup completely at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Store the pasta separately if possible. The small ditalini or elbow macaroni continues to absorb broth over time and can become mushy.
- Combine just before reheating for the best texture and flavor profile.
Refrigeration Guidelines
We recommend storing Pasta Fagioli in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
| Storage Method | Time Frame | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In the refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store soup and pasta separately |
| In the freezer | Up to 3 months | Best to freeze soup base only |
“Good food is nourishment for the soul.” — Dom DeLuise
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator if you want a quick, warming meal later in the week.
Freezing Tips
- Freeze only the bean and vegetable broth mixture, excluding pasta.
- Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags.
- Leave at least 1 inch of headspace as the soup expands when frozen.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Add freshly cooked pasta during the final warming step for a vibrant finish.
Reheating Instructions
- Transfer refrigerated or thawed soup to a pot.
- Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot.
- If stored separately, stir in freshly cooked pasta now.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs to refresh flavors.
Quick Freshening Tips When Serving Leftovers
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley or basil for vibrant herbal notes.
- A squirt of fresh lemon juice can brighten the broth if flavors have mellowed.
By following these guidelines, our Dom DeLuise Pasta Fagioli will retain its comforting, rustic character—ready to nourish us anytime.
Conclusion
Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli recipe brings a timeless Italian comfort food straight to our tables. Its hearty blend of beans, pasta, and vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
By following the steps and tips we’ve outlined, we can capture the authentic flavors and warmth that make this dish so special. Whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later, it promises a delicious experience every time.
Let’s embrace the joy of cooking this classic together and savor the rich tradition behind every bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli is a classic Italian soup combining pasta and beans in a savory broth. It’s a comforting dish known for its rich flavors and hearty texture.
Who inspired the Pasta Fagioli recipe in the article?
The recipe is inspired by Dom DeLuise’s cherished version, reflecting his love for food and family and capturing authentic Italian home cooking.
What type of pasta is best for Pasta Fagioli?
Small ditalini pasta or elbow macaroni are recommended for the dish, as they complement the beans and broth well.
What kinds of beans are used in this recipe?
A mix of dried navy beans and canned cannellini beans is used to provide a balanced texture and flavor.
Which vegetables are included to flavor the soup?
Key vegetables include onion, garlic, celery, and carrots, which add depth and richness to the broth.
What seasonings enhance Pasta Fagioli?
Common seasonings are oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Optional garnishes include fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this soup?
Essential tools include a large stockpot or Dutch oven, chef’s knife, cutting board, wooden spoon, measuring cups, colander, ladle, and a mixing bowl.
How should I prepare the beans for the recipe?
Dried navy beans should be rinsed and soaked before cooking. Canned cannellini beans should be rinsed and drained.
Should the pasta be cooked separately?
Yes, cooking the pasta separately helps prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the soup later.
Can I make Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be fully prepared and cooled before storing. Keep pasta separate to maintain its texture.
How should I store leftover Pasta Fagioli?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat gently, adding fresh herbs or Parmesan for flavor.
What are good side dishes to serve with Pasta Fagioli?
Garlic bread, mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or an antipasto platter pair well to complete the meal.
How do I thicken the soup if desired?
Using an immersion blender to partially blend the beans and vegetables can thicken the soup and create a creamier texture.
What is the best way to serve Pasta Fagioli?
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls with sturdy spoons, garnished with fresh parsley, Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil.