Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 4 to 5 minutes to deepen the tomato flavor.
- Add the chicken broth and 1 cup of water, then return the reserved beef to the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Uncover and add the uncooked bowtie pasta. Cook uncovered according to the package directions—typically 8 to 10 minutes—stirring occasionally so the pasta does not clump and adding more water if the soup becomes too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and finish each serving with a dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Serve immediately while the cheeses are creamy.
Nutrition
Notes
For best texture, freeze the soup without the fresh cheeses for up to 3 months. Adjust salt to taste at the end. Vegetarian option is to use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.
