Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Heartwarming Italian pasta fagioli soup brings rustic comfort straight from Tuscany’s countryside kitchens. Packed with hearty beans, tender pasta, and rich tomato broth, this classic dish promises warm satisfaction you’ll savor spoonful by spoonful. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup combines protein-rich beans and tender pasta, making it a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with nutrients from beans and vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make cooking this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring the flavors blend perfectly.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound mild or spicy ground turkey or chicken sausage (casings removed)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced)
• 3 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 2 medium celery ribs (finely diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (16 ounces) tomato sauce

For Seasoning and Garnish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 3 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley (chopped)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup (4 ounces) dried pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini)
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (plus more for serving)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for serving)

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Brown sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes, crumbling the meat while cooking until fully cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Incorporate onions, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for 6 minutes until vegetables soften and release their aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, allowing its fragrance to permeate the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, seasonings, and bay leaves. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Introduce pasta into the pot and continue simmering for 9–10 minutes until pasta reaches perfect al dente texture.

Step 6: Finish the Soup

Discard bay leaves and remove pot from heat. Fold in Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

Adjust soup’s thickness by adding extra broth if needed. Taste and fine-tune seasoning with additional salt and pepper.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle into serving bowls, garnishing with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Italian pasta fagioli soup!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is about complementing its hearty flavors while enhancing the dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Italian Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these flakes provide a spicy kick.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – The tanginess of sourdough pairs beautifully with the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors while adding a crunchy texture.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with a vinaigrette can balance the heartiness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a nice contrast to the soup’s texture.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to consider:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance flavor.
• Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add more broth gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels during cooking for better control over flavor.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for 30 minutes after cooking can meld the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a fresh start to your meal.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add vibrant flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a savory side that complements the soup well.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with garlic and cheese are perfect for dipping into your soup.
5. Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad with nuts and fruits can create a refreshing contrast.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide an extra hearty option alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your soup well can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
• Skipping the sauté: Skipping the sauté step for vegetables can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Sautéing develops the natural sugars and enhances taste.
• Overcooking pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the soup. Add pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for perfect al dente texture.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can diminish the soup’s flavor. Fresh herbs contribute vibrant aromas and tastes.
• Neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Opt for low sodium, flavorful chicken broth for best results.
• Not adjusting thickness: Soups can thicken as they sit. Adjust thickness by adding more broth when reheating if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed, adding broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe.

What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic dish made with pasta, beans, tomatoes, and rich broth. It’s hearty and comforting.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground turkey or chicken with plant-based meat alternatives or skip it altogether for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to prepare Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total prep and cook time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix or match your favorite beans like black beans or pinto beans for added variety.

How do I customize my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can customize by adding vegetables such as spinach or zucchini or using different seasonings based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your taste. Try this cozy recipe soon; it’s sure to become a favorite!