If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal, Pasta Fagioli Soup is the answer. This classic Italian soup is packed with tender pasta, creamy beans, and a flavorful tomato broth. It’s comforting, filling, and so easy to make.
Whether it’s a chilly day or you just want something cozy, this soup is perfect for the whole family. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, cannellini beans, and kidney beans. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Pour in the Broth: Add the broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
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Cook the Pasta: While the soup simmers, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Combine and Season: Add the cooked pasta to the soup pot, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Achieving the Best Flavor in Your Pasta Fagioli
1- Use fresh herbs if possible. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme can elevate the flavor of the soup.
2- Don’t overcook the pasta. To avoid mushy pasta, cook it until just al dente and add it to the soup right before serving.
3- Let the soup sit. If you have time, let the soup sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge to let the flavors deepen.
Variations: How to Customize Pasta Fagioli to Your Taste
1- Add some protein. For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage or diced chicken.
2- Make it vegetarian. Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian meal.
3- Spice it up. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Pasta Fagioli Soup
Pasta Fagioli Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with garlic bread or a simple bruschetta for an Italian-inspired meal.
Storing and Reheating Pasta Fagioli Soup: Best Practices
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water, as the pasta will absorb some liquid and thicken the soup.
Can You Freeze Pasta Fagioli? Tips for Freezing and Thawing
Yes, Pasta Fagioli freezes well. For the best results, freeze the soup without the pasta and add it fresh when you reheat. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pasta Fagioli
1- Overcooking the pasta: This can make the soup too thick and mushy.
2- Not using enough seasoning: This soup relies on its simple ingredients, so make sure to season it well.
3- Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth builds a flavorful base for the soup.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a warm, hearty soup like Pasta Fagioli that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or saving it for yourself to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—I’m always excited to hear how my recipes work in your kitchen.