Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup: A Classic Comfort in Every Bowl
Warm, hearty, and brimming with flavors of Italy, Pasta Fagioli Soup is a timeless favorite that combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Every spoonful delivers comfort and nourishment, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you crave something wholesome yet indulgent.
This traditional Italian soup, whose name literally means “pasta and beans,” offers the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, making it both satisfying and nutritious. With its aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and the subtle richness of olive oil, Pasta Fagioli brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, its versatility and heartiness make it a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 45 |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | 80 |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 6 cups | 90 |
| Cannellini beans, drained & rinsed | 2 cups | 380 |
| Ditalini pasta | 1 cup | 200 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp | 2 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) | ¼ cup | 110 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add liquids and beans
Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Add drained cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. - Simmer the soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Cook the pasta
Add ditalini pasta and continue simmering until pasta is tender, about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Finish and serve
Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and serve hot. Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based additions.
- Add protein: Include diced cooked chicken, sausage, or ground turkey.
- Use different pasta: Small shells, elbow macaroni, or orzo can substitute ditalini.
- Extra vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or green beans for added nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~270 |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a slice of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup: A Classic Comfort in Every Bowl
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes270
kcalIngredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups cannellini beans, drained & rinsed
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, broth, cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add ditalini pasta and simmer 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and serve hot. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and good-quality broth. Adjust seasoning to taste, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it just until tender and serve the soup immediately, or cook pasta separately and add when reheating leftovers.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat. The beans and vegetables provide plenty of protein and flavor.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Pasta Fagioli tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?
Yes, but avoid freezing the pasta separately if already cooked, as it can become mushy. It’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta and cook pasta fresh when reheating.
4. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes. Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or orzo work well as alternatives to ditalini.
5. How do I make the soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, partially blend some of the beans with a hand immersion blender, leaving some beans whole for texture.
Conclusion
Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty, comforting, and versatile dish that brings the rich flavors of Italian cuisine into your home. With tender pasta, creamy beans, and a savory broth packed with vegetables and herbs, this soup is perfect for warming up on chilly nights or serving as a wholesome family meal. Its ease of preparation, customizable options, and nutritional balance make it a staple that will keep everyone coming back for more. Embrace the comforting flavors of Italy with every spoonful of this classic soup.
