Pasta Fagioli Soup

by

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty, comforting Italian classic made with tender pasta, creamy beans, and a rich tomato broth. Packed with flavor and simple ingredients, this soup is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.

I first made this soup on a chilly evening, and it quickly became a family favorite. The combination of savory broth, soft beans, and perfectly cooked pasta created a dish that felt both rustic and wholesome. A sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs on top took it to the next level!

What’s great about Pasta Fagioli Soup is how easy it is to customize. Add ground beef or turkey sausage for a heartier version, swap in different beans for variety, or adjust the seasonings to your taste. Whether served with crusty bread or on its own, this soup is a comforting, delicious classic!

Perfect for:

  • Cozy winter nights
  • Family dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Italian food lovers
  • Budget-friendly meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Pasta Fagioli Soup will become your go-to comfort meal:

  • Hearty and Satisfying: Loaded with beans, pasta, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
  • Authentic Italian Flavors: A rich tomato broth infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
  • Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and wholesome vegetables.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
  • Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to your taste or dietary needs.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
  • Vegetarian and Meat Options: Easily adaptable for different diets.
  • Warm and Comforting: A go-to dish for chilly weather and cozy meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Garnish:

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Crusty bread for serving

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cannellini Beans: Creamy texture and mild flavor that enhances the soup.
  • Red Kidney Beans: Adds heartiness and extra protein.
  • Ditalini Pasta: Traditional choice, but any small pasta works well.
  • Olive Oil: Enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavors.

Add Beans and Pasta:

  1. Stir in Beans: Add cannellini and kidney beans to the pot. Stir well.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10 minutes, until al dente.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Add Parmesan and Parsley: Stir in grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for extra flavor.
  2. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Serve with crusty bread.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Pasta Fagioli Soup:

  • With Garlic Bread: A perfect companion for soaking up the broth.
  • Topped with Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of cheese enhances the richness.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or garden salad.
  • In a Bread Bowl: Serve inside a hollowed-out bread loaf for a fun twist.
  • With Crushed Red Pepper: Add extra heat for spice lovers.
  • With Grilled Chicken: Add protein by serving with grilled chicken.
  • As a Starter Course: Serve in small portions before a main Italian meal.
  • With a Drizzle of Olive Oil: Enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Topped with Crispy Pancetta: Adds a smoky crunch.

Additional Tips

  • Use Homemade Stock – For a richer, more flavorful soup, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock instead of store-bought broth.
  • Sauté the Aromatics – Cook onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened to build a deep, savory base.
  • Choose the Right Beans – Cannellini or great northern beans provide a creamy texture, while red kidney beans add a firmer bite.
  • Cook Pasta Separately – To prevent mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
  • Blend for a Creamier Texture – For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the beans before adding them back to the soup.
  • Use Fresh Herbs – Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or oregano at the end for a burst of freshness.
  • Add Parmesan Rind – Simmering a Parmesan rind in the broth infuses the soup with a rich, umami depth.
  • Let It Rest – Allow the soup to sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
  • Balance with Acid – A splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the overall flavor.
  • Store Smartly – Keep pasta separate when storing leftovers to avoid it absorbing too much liquid and becoming soggy.

Recipe Variations

  • Classic Italian Style – Stick to the traditional recipe with ditalini pasta, cannellini beans, pancetta, tomatoes, and a rich broth infused with garlic, rosemary, and Parmesan.
  • Meat Lover’s Version – Add ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein and heartiness.
  • Spicy Arrabbiata Twist – Stir in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or spicy Italian sausage to give the soup a fiery kick.
  • Tuscan Kale & Sausage – Replace pancetta with crumbled Italian sausage and add chopped kale for a rustic, hearty variation.
  • Vegetarian & Vegan – Omit meat and use vegetable broth with extra beans, zucchini, and spinach for a wholesome plant-based option.
  • Creamy Parmesan – Stir in heavy cream or a Parmesan rind while simmering for a luxuriously creamy and cheesy finish.
  • Gluten-Free Swap – Use gluten-free pasta or substitute quinoa, rice, or chickpeas for a delicious alternative.
  • Slow Cooker Method – Cook everything low and slow for 6-8 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes for an effortless, flavorful soup.
  • Pesto-Infused Delight – Stir in a spoonful of fresh basil pesto before serving for an herby, aromatic twist.
  • Lemon & Herb Refresh – Add fresh lemon zest and a mix of chopped basil, parsley, and thyme to brighten up the flavors.

Special Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot: Essential for cooking and simmering.
  • Ladle: For easy serving.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring ingredients smoothly.
  • Parmesan Grater: For freshly grated cheese.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping vegetables.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions.

FAQ Section

  1. What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?
    Pasta Fagioli (or “Pasta e Fagioli”) is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and a savory broth. It is a comforting and hearty dish often enjoyed with crusty bread.
  2. What kind of beans are used in Pasta Fagioli?
    Commonly used beans include cannellini beans and kidney beans. However, you can use other varieties like great northern beans or chickpeas for a different texture.
  3. What type of pasta is best for this soup?
    Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni work best. They hold their shape well and blend nicely with the beans and broth.
  4. Is Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?
    Traditional recipes often use pancetta or beef bacon, but you can easily make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and skipping the meat.
  5. Can I make Pasta Fagioli gluten-free?
    Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with rice or quinoa to keep it gluten-free.
  6. How can I make Pasta Fagioli thicker?
    For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the broth or let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
  7. Can I make Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?
    Yes, but the pasta may absorb liquid and become softer. If making ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating.
  8. How should I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the pasta separate to prevent it from getting mushy.
  9. Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?
    Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add freshly cooked pasta.
  10. What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli?
    This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, a simple green salad, or grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Conclusion

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty, comforting Italian classic packed with tender pasta, creamy beans, savory tomatoes, and a flavorful broth. This one-pot wonder is rich in texture and bursting with bold, rustic flavors that make it the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights.

With simple pantry staples and a quick cooking time, this soup is easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan for the ultimate comforting bowl!

I can’t wait to see how your Pasta Fagioli Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this recipe your own!