Name: Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; ⅓ cup pancetta; 1 tbsp garlic; 1 cup white onion; ½ cup celery; ½ cup carrots; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 28 oz tomatoes; 4 cups unsalted chicken broth; 1 cup dried small shell pasta; 1½ tsp thyme; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 dried bay leaf; 2 rosemary sprigs; 1 tsp kosher salt; 15 oz cannellini beans; 15 oz red kidney beans; black pepper; 1 tbsp parsley; ¼ cup parmesan cheese

Get ready to indulge in a delightful pasta e fagioli recipe, created specially for the Instant Pot. This warm and comforting dish combines pasta, beans, and a variety of flavorful herbs and spices, making it a hearty soup that's sure to please. It's a simple, one-pot dish that's perfect for weekday dinners or easy weekend meals.

Photos of Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe should be readily available in regular supermarkets. However, one ingredient you may need to take note of is pancetta, an Italian type of cured meat, which adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you can't find pancetta, you can substitute it with regular bacon. Additionally, cannellini beans and red kidney beans are used in this recipe. If you don't usually have these on hand, be sure to add them to your shopping list.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a rich, fruity flavor to the dish.

Pancetta: Adds a salty, savory punch to the pasta e fagioli. Can be replaced with bacon if pancetta is not available.

Garlic: Provides a strong, pungent flavor that complements the flavors of the other ingredients.

Onion: Creates a flavorful base for the soup.

Celery and Carrots: These classic soup vegetables add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.

Tomato paste: Deepens the flavor of the soup, giving it a robust tomato taste.

Tomatoes: Add both sweetness and acidity to the dish.

Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing depth of flavor.

Pasta: Small shell pasta is ideal for this dish as it absorbs the flavors of the soup.

Spices: Thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and rosemary combine to create a complex, aromatic flavor profile.

Beans: Cannellini and red kidney beans add a creaminess to the soup, as well as providing protein and fiber.

Parsley and Parmesan cheese: Used to garnish the soup, adding a fresh, tangy finish.

One reader, Jeanine Richie says:

This instant pot pasta e fagioli recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of pancetta, beans, and pasta is simply divine. It's become a family favorite in no time! Highly recommend trying it out.

Jeanine Richie

Key Techniques for Making Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli

How to sauté the vegetables: In a heated instant pot, add the olive oil, garlic, onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly softened.

How to release pressure naturally: After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

How to garnish the soup: Sprinkle the soup with parsley and parmesan cheese just before serving to add a burst of flavor and freshness.

How To Make Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Try your hand on this traditional Italian Pasta e fagioli! It’s a pasta dish loaded with filling beans to give you a more well-rounded meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
⅓cuppancettaor bacon, diced to ¼-inch
1tbspgarlicminced
1cupwhite oniondiced to ¼-inch
½cupcelerydiced to ¼-inch
½cupcarrotsdiced to ¼-inch
2tbsptomato paste
28oztomatoescanned, diced, with juice
4cupsunsalted chicken broth
1cupdried small shell pasta
1½tspthymechopped
½tspdried oregano
1dried bay leaf
2rosemary sprigs
1tspkosher salt
15ozcannellini beanscanned, drained and rinsed
15ozred kidney beansdrained and rinsed
black pepperas needed for seasoning
1tbspparsleychopped, for garnish
¼cupparmesan cheesegrated, for garnish

Instructions

Select the “Sauté” option on the Instant Pot.
Allow the pot to heat; it will indicate “Hot” on the display when ready.
Add the olive oil to the pot, then once hot, add the garlic and onion.
Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the celery and carrots, then sauté 1 minute.
Add the tomato paste, then sauté 30 seconds.
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, pasta, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, rosemary, and salt.
Make sure that the release valve is in the “Sealing” position.
Place the lid on the Instant Pot, then turn and lock the lid.
Press the “Manual” button on the Instant Pot on high pressure, and then set the timer to 3 minutes.
Let the pot heat up and build pressure for 15 minutes before the cooking timer starts.
Once the cook time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes.
Carefully twist the steam release handle on the lid to “Venting” position.
Add the cannellini beans and red kidney beans, then stir to combine.
Allow to warm for at least 10 minutes.
Taste the soup, then season with salt and pepper as desired.
Garnish the soup with parsley and parmesan cheese, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1033.94kcal
Fat: 14.18g
Saturated Fat: 4.35g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.75g
Carbohydrates: 169.99g
Fiber: 38.33g
Sugar: 14.49g
Protein: 64.81g
Cholesterol: 12.54mg
Sodium: 861.43mg
Calcium: 539.29mg
Potassium: 4402.65mg
Iron: 20.78mg
Vitamin A: 249.38µg
Vitamin C: 41.00mg

Mastering the Art of Pasta e Fagioli: A Technique Tip

When sautéing the garlic and onion, make sure not to burn them. They should be cooked until they're just fragrant and slightly translucent. This will bring out their flavors without making them bitter. Similarly, when adding the tomato paste, ensure to cook it for a while to remove its raw flavor and enhance its sweetness. This process, known as caramelizing, will greatly improve the overall taste of your Pasta e Fagioli.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cooked beans: Save time by using canned beans instead of cooking them from scratch.

Instant pot: Utilize a pressure cooker for faster cooking and to infuse flavors efficiently.

One-pot wonder: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as this pasta e fagioli, to save time on washing dishes.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the extra for quick and convenient future meals.

Efficient multitasking: While the soup is cooking, use the time to prepare the garnishes or set the table.

Prep and freeze: Prepare the soup in advance and freeze it for a quick and easy meal on busy days.

Quick release: Use the quick release function on the instant pot to speed up the pressure release process.

Store-bought shortcuts: Consider using store-bought broth and pre-diced vegetables to cut down on prep time.

Plan and organize: Create a meal plan and organize your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
pancetta - Substitute with bacon: Bacon can be used as a substitute for pancetta, as it provides a similar smoky and salty flavor to the dish.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for white onions, as they have a slightly stronger flavor but will work well in this recipe.
celery - Substitute with celery seed: If you don't have fresh celery, celery seed can be used to add a similar flavor to the dish.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor to the dish.
tomato paste - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for tomato paste, although it may alter the consistency of the dish slightly.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing a convenient alternative.
unsalted chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian alternative.
small shell pasta - Substitute with elbow macaroni: Elbow macaroni can be used as a substitute for small shell pasta, as it will hold the sauce well and provide a similar texture.
thyme - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
dried bay leaf - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for bay leaf, providing a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
rosemary sprigs - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute for fresh rosemary, providing a similar piney and woody flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans can be used as a substitute for cannellini beans, providing a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
red kidney beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans can be used as a substitute for red kidney beans, providing a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan cheese, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor.

Presentation Tips for Serving Pasta e Fagioli

Elevate the plating: When presenting the pasta e fagioli, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Arrange the ingredients thoughtfully, ensuring that each element is visible and inviting.
Garnish with precision: Add a finishing touch to the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and finely grated parmesan cheese over the pasta e fagioli. The garnish should be delicately placed to enhance the overall presentation without overwhelming the flavors.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a hint of high-quality olive oil in a circular motion around the edge of the bowl. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also infuses a subtle richness to the dish, creating a visually captivating presentation.
Consider the placement of the beans: Carefully position the cannellini and red kidney beans on top of the pasta, ensuring they are evenly distributed and add a pop of color to the dish. The placement should be deliberate and balanced to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Mindful use of serving utensils: When serving the pasta e fagioli, use a sleek and polished ladle to carefully portion the soup into the bowl. Pay attention to the angle and precision of the pour to maintain the visual appeal of the dish.
Attention to detail with cheese: Grate the parmesan cheese using a fine grater to achieve a delicate, snow-like texture. Sprinkle the cheese over the dish with precision, ensuring an even distribution that adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli

Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used for sautéing, pressure cooking, slow cooking, and more.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients in the Instant Pot.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring out ingredients.
Can opener: For opening canned tomatoes and beans.
Ladle: Used for serving the pasta e fagioli.
Grater: For grating fresh parmesan cheese as a garnish.
Instant-read thermometer: Helpful for checking the doneness of meat and ensuring food safety.
Timer: Useful for keeping track of cooking times and ensuring the pasta e fagioli is cooked perfectly.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Pasta e Fagioli

To store leftover pasta e fagioli, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
When reheating refrigerated pasta e fagioli, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the soup, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid during storage.
For longer storage, you can freeze pasta e fagioli for up to 3 months:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
To thaw frozen pasta e fagioli, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheat thawed pasta e fagioli in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add extra broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
For best results, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to the soup when reheating. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during storage and reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Pasta e Fagioli

Reheat the leftover pasta e fagioli in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure even reheating without overcooking the pasta or making the soup too thick.
If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to combine and achieve the desired consistency.
For a quick and easy reheating option, transfer the desired portion of leftover soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated to your liking.
If you have stored the pasta separately from the soup base, reheat the soup base using one of the above methods, then add the cooked pasta and stir until heated through. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming overcooked and mushy.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover pasta e fagioli, garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or some freshly chopped parsley before serving. These toppings can brighten up the flavors and make the reheated soup feel like a new meal.

Budget-Friendly: Is Pasta e Fagioli Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as pasta, cannellini beans, and vegetables, are affordable and readily available. The dish yields a large quantity, making it suitable for a family meal, and the use of pantry staples reduces the overall cost. With an approximate cost of $15, this recipe offers great value for a household of four. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.

Is Pasta e Fagioli Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pasta e fagioli recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes a variety of nutritious ingredients such as vegetables (onion, celery, carrots), beans (cannellini and red kidney), and herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary, parsley). Beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The vegetables provide additional fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components. The use of pancetta adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish. The parmesan cheese also contributes to the saturated fat content. Additionally, the recipe calls for regular pasta, which is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the pancetta with a leaner protein source, such as turkey bacon or omit it altogether to reduce the saturated fat and sodium content
Use whole-grain or legume-based pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese used or opt for a low-fat alternative to decrease the saturated fat content
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe to boost the fiber, vitamin, and antioxidant content
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the overall sodium levels in the dish

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Italian Soup

The Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of pancetta adds a rich, savory depth, while the combination of herbs and vegetables creates a well-balanced and hearty dish. The addition of cannellini and red kidney beans provides a satisfying protein and fiber boost. The use of the Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, making it a convenient option for a delicious weeknight meal. The finished dish is a comforting and satisfying bowl of pasta e fagioli that is sure to please the whole family. Buon appetito!

Enhance Your Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a delicious garlic bread with a twist by adding roasted garlic and parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors!

Caesar Salad: Put a unique spin on the classic Caesar salad by adding grilled chicken and homemade croutons for an extra crunch.

Bruschetta: Serve up a flavorful bruschetta with a variety of toppings such as balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and taste.

Fruit Salad: Prepare a refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing and a sprinkle of mint leaves for a burst of freshness.

Tiramisu: Indulge in a decadent tiramisu dessert with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese for a rich and satisfying treat.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pasta e Fagioli

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent chicken alfredo pasta dish that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Whip up a zesty and tropical mango salsa chicken dish that combines the sweetness of mango with the savory flavors of seasoned chicken for a delightful dinner option.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Prepare a nutritious and colorful roasted vegetable quinoa salad that is packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor for a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Berry Cobbler: Bake a delicious and fruity berry cobbler dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of mixed berries and is topped with a golden, buttery crust for a delightful treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Pasta e Fagioli

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy on the outside, and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy toasted bread with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings, such as diced tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze. This colorful and flavorful appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a luscious, creamy dessert with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. The perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Panna Cotta: Savor the silky smoothness of this Italian dessert, topped with a vibrant fruit compote. The delicate vanilla flavor combined with the refreshing burst of fruit will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.

Why trust this Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe:

This recipe for Pasta e Fagioli is a delicious and authentic Italian dish, crafted with care and expertise. The use of pancetta adds a rich and savory flavor, while the combination of cannellini beans and red kidney beans provides a hearty and satisfying texture. The inclusion of thyme, oregano, and rosemary infuses the dish with aromatic and earthy notes. Additionally, the incorporation of parmesan cheese offers a delightful finishing touch. Trust in the quality and balance of ingredients, as this recipe has been meticulously crafted to deliver a truly exceptional dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe or discuss variations you've tried? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

Yes, you can substitute bacon for pancetta in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes. Just make sure to peel and dice them before adding them to the recipe.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian?

Of course! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian. It will still be delicious and flavorful.

Can I omit the pancetta to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the pancetta to make this recipe vegetarian. You can add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the flavor if desired.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container and they should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.