Smoky Pasta and Bean Soup

Warm up with this hearty Smoky Pasta and Bean Soup. The macaroni cooks in the soup, making this recipe super easy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

6 slices bacon
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/8 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, crushed
2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
2 1/2 cups canned white beans, drained
6 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup macaroni or other small paste shape
Fresh Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

In a large deep pot, sauté bacon until some fat is rendered; add onion, celery, carrot, garlic and red pepper to skillet and sauté until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
Stir in tomatoes, cook and stir occasionally for 10 more minutes.
Stir in beans; add broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Add macaroni (or other small pasta) and continue cooking until pasta is tender, but still firm, about 15 minutes.
Serve immediately with Parmesan cheese if desired; or cover, refrigerate and reheat gently to serving temperature.
Serve with warmed bread sticks and a salad.

Notes

Recipe and photo used with permission from: National Pork Board

Find it online: https://simplygreatrecipes.com/smoky-pasta-and-bean-soup/