Go Back

Red Pepper Pasta Fagioli

A cozy, beefy twist on classic Pasta Fagioli, this version stars sweet caramelized red peppers, tender kale, and a Parmesan-infused broth. Perfectly hearty, endlessly slurpable, and ready to become your new comfort food obsession.
Print Recipe
Caramelized Red Pepper Pasta Fagioli
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 1 red pepper diced
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbs oregano
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 3 tbs tomato paste
  • 7 cups beef broth
  • 26.5 oz bottle tomato passata or puree
  • 2 tsp white sugar
  • 1 15 oz Cannellini beans drained and rinsed
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 cup ditalini
  • 1 parmesan rind
  • 2 handfuls chopped kale stems removed
  • 1/2 lemon to squeeze juice

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  • Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and red pepper, then season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
  • Cook, stirring now and then, for 6–8 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
  • Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds.
  • Mix in the tomato paste, cooking it for 1–2 minutes so it deepens in color and flavor.
  • Crumble in the ground beef and cook until no pink remains.
  • Pour in the beef broth and tomato passata, followed by the drained beans, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind.
  • Turn the heat up and bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.
  • Let it simmer away uncovered for around 30 minutes, giving it a stir here and there.
  • Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
  • Add the chopped kale and let it wilt into the soup.
  • Squeeze in the lemon juice, then taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  • Scoop into bowls and finish with Parmesan, cracked black pepper, a drizzle of oil, and an extra squeeze of lemon if you’re feeling zesty.
  • Serve with warm, crusty bread and dig in.
Servings: 6