Name: Delicious Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli Recipe for Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons dried basil; 6 oz tomato paste; 28 oz diced tomatoes; 15 oz kidney beans, drained; 1 lb ditalini pasta; 1/4 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup ricotta; 1 cup fontina cheese, grated; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines pasta with meats, beans, and a blend of cheeses, all baked to perfection. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. The signature Italian flavor combined with a cheesy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a satisfying meal after a long day, this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

This Cheesy Pasta Fagioli is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich flavors from seasoned meats and beans.
Surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an Easy Cheesy Pasta Fagioli Recipe.
Perfect for meal prep, serving delicious leftovers.
A filling option packed with protein, great for dinner.
Vegetarian options available by substituting the meat.
It can be customized with different cheeses for a unique taste.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

Gather these items:

1 lb Italian sausage
1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons dried basil
6 oz tomato paste
28 oz diced tomatoes
15 oz kidney beans, drained
1 lb ditalini pasta
1/4 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup ricotta
1 cup fontina cheese, grated
1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

How to Make Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage and ground beef in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add onions, garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the paste begins to stick.
Step 3: Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Stir diced tomatoes and kidney beans into the meat mixture. Reduce heat to low and scrape the bottom of the pot to release flavor. Simmer and taste for seasoning.
Step 5: Turn off the heat and stir in the cooked pasta along with a handful of grated cheese.
Step 6: Pour half of the pasta and sauce mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with half the ricotta, mozzarella, fontina, and Parmesan.
Step 7: Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta mixture and cheese. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Delicious Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli Recipe for Comfort - Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

Keep these in mind:

Feel free to adjust the types of cheese based on your preference.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
For a healthier option, try a Vegetarian Cheesy Pasta Fagioli using vegetables and a meat substitute.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with additional cheese for a gooier experience.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

To store, simply cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish is also great for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli?

The secret lies in the layers of cheese and flavor-packed sauce that create a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Can I make Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli?

Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente before baking. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

Variations of Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli You Can Try

Consider these fun twists on the classic:

Add different beans such as black beans for a unique flavor.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables for a fresh touch.
Experiment with various cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar for a different taste.

Delicious Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli Recipe for Comfort - Cheesy Baked Pasta Fagioli - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken or try our Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Grandma Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies.

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline.