Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup, or “Pasta e Fagioli,” is a classic Italian comfort food that combines tender pasta, hearty beans, and a savory tomato-based broth. This rustic soup is packed with flavor and makes for a perfect cozy meal, especially during colder months. It’s easy to make and is a great way to feed a crowd with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for the ultimate Italian experience.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage (Optional)

1. If using, add the ground Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth

1. Stir in the cannellini beans, red kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and water.
2. Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Stir in the ditalini pasta and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Add Spinach (Optional)

1. If using, stir in the fresh spinach during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt into the soup.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Notes

• Broth: Use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on your preference. Vegetable broth keeps the soup vegetarian.
• Pasta: If you’re making the soup ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Sausage: The Italian sausage adds a rich, savory flavor, but you can leave it out for a vegetarian version.

Variations

Spicy Pasta Fagioli

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the spices for a bit of heat. You can also use spicy Italian sausage for extra kick.

Creamy Pasta Fagioli

• Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy version of this classic soup.

Vegan Pasta Fagioli

• Use vegetable broth and omit the sausage to make the soup vegan. You can also add extra vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Different Type of Bean?

Yes! You can use any beans you like, such as navy beans or pinto beans, in place of cannellini or kidney beans.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth or water if needed.

Can I Freeze Pasta Fagioli?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. For best results, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table with its blend of tender pasta, beans, and savory broth. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delicious starter, this soup is easy to make and always satisfying. Customize it to suit your preferences, and serve it with plenty of grated Parmesan and crusty bread for the perfect comforting meal.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite of this delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup!