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 family dinners or gatherings, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is sure to impress with its robust flavors and nutritious ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with beans and pasta, making it a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a flavorful broth that enhances every spoonful.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, gather your kitchen tools ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp blade helps chop vegetables quickly and precisely, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

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.

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

Seasonings and Herbs

• 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)

Pasta and Cheese

• 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 Sausage

Brown sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes. Crumble the meat while cooking until it’s fully cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the mixture and cook for an additional minute. Allow its fragrance to permeate the mixture.

Step 4: Build the Broth

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

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Introduce pasta into the simmering broth. Continue simmering for 9-10 minutes until the pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture.

Step 6: Final Touches

Discard bay leaves from the pot before removing it from heat. Fold in Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Adjust Thickness

If needed, adjust soup’s thickness by adding extra broth. Taste and fine-tune seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle into serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes for added spice if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Italian pasta fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or at a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of freshly baked crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth. This adds texture and makes the meal more satisfying.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This not only brightens the flavor but also adds a vibrant touch to your presentation.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

• Offer extra grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side. Guests can sprinkle it over their soup for an added creaminess and depth of flavor.

As a Main Course

• Enjoy the soup as a hearty main dish, paired with a simple green salad. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties. This allows guests to enjoy their own personal serving.

With a Dash of Spice

• Provide crushed red pepper flakes on the table for those who like an extra kick. It allows everyone to customize their heat level.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Achieving the perfect Italian pasta fagioli soup requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an even better dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible. They enhance the flavor and aroma of your soup significantly.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming too soft in the broth.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste your soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings gradually. This helps achieve your desired flavor balance without overpowering any element.

• Allow to Rest: Letting your soup sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can improve flavors as they meld together, making each spoonful even more delicious.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently while adding additional broth if necessary to maintain consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian pasta fagioli soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors nicely.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up every bit of savory broth.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the soup.

3. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing both taste and health benefits alongside your meal.

5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil makes for an appealing appetizer that pairs well with any Italian dish.

6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese is hearty and comforting, making it a great accompaniment to your pasta fagioli soup.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese provide an earthy flavor that complements the beans in the soup beautifully.

8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and cured meats (substituting turkey or chicken) creates an inviting start to any meal featuring pasta fagioli soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Always take the time to cook them until softened before adding broth.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is crucial for flavor. Opt for a low sodium chicken broth that complements the soup rather than overpowering it.
• Overcooking pasta: Pasta should be cooked al dente. Add it towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for the best flavor profile.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate this dish. Don’t skip them; they add freshness and depth to your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze in 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) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of beans in this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute or mix beans based on your preference, such as black beans or pinto beans.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the turkey or chicken sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Elbow macaroni or ditalini are great choices. You can use any small pasta that cooks quickly.

Can I add more vegetables to my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my soup?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in or add extra beans.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only heartwarming but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, offering comfort in every spoonful. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of a classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, a dish that captures the essence of Tuscan comfort food. This hearty soup features a delightful blend of tender pasta and protein-rich beans simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato broth. Each spoonful offers a satisfying taste experience, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this versatile recipe can easily be customized to include your favorite ingredients. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a meal prep option, this Pasta Fagioli is sure to impress with its robust flavors and wholesome goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken sausage
• 1 large yellow onion
• 3 medium carrots
• 2 celery ribs
• 4 cloves garlic
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can cannellini beans
• 1 can red kidney beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• Dried pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini)
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground turkey or chicken sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes, crumbling the meat until fully cooked.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the pot; sauté for approximately 6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth along with rinsed beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Add dried pasta to the pot and continue simmering for another 9-10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
6. Remove bay leaves; stir in grated cheese until melted.
7. Adjust thickness with additional broth if needed and season to taste before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg