Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that truly warms the soul, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender beans, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables all simmered in a rich tomato broth, this traditional Italian bean soup offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each spoonful is a satisfying taste of Italy, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests who appreciate authentic comfort food. With modest ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, this soup is as approachable as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are beautifully simple yet essential to creating an authentic flavor. Each component plays a unique role in bringing together the perfect texture, depth, and color for your Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe.

• Cannellini beans: Creamy white beans that add a soft bite and protein-rich goodness.
• Small pasta (ditalini or elbow): Tiny pasta shapes that soak up the broth without overpowering the soup’s texture.
• Diced tomatoes: Provide a bright, tangy base with natural sweetness for a rich broth.
• Onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and foundational flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and depth.
• Vegetable or chicken broth: Creates the savory liquid that carries the flavors and nourishes the soul.
• Olive oil: The key for sautéing that brings richness and an authentic Italian touch.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your soup, allowing those simple ingredients to release their sweet and savory essence.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the drained cannellini beans, and the vegetable or chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, giving everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This simmering melds the flavors and allows the broth to thicken slightly into a delicious base.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Finally, pour in the small pasta and continue cooking the soup until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, making sure each spoonful delivers the perfect harmony of beans, pasta, and broth. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed before serving.

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of torn fresh basil leaves. These simple garnishes bring an extra layer of richness and freshness, elevating the rustic flavors into something truly special. A drizzle of good quality olive oil on top is also a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of artisan bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will balance the meal with brightness and crunch, providing contrast to the hearty texture of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe in rustic bowls, garnished thoughtfully and accompanied by small ramekins of toppings like chili flakes or extra Parmesan. For a casual gathering, present it in mini mugs paired with finger sandwiches or antipasto bites to turn it into a delightful appetizer experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the soup even more satisfying the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Italian Pasta Fagioli freezes well if you keep the pasta separate before freezing. Freeze the broth and beans mixture on its own and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy upon thawing and reheating.

Reheating

To warm up your soup, heat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, and add freshly cooked pasta if you froze the broth separately.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute with great northern beans or even kidney beans depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times slightly if using dried beans.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The hearty beans and vegetables make it satisfying without any meat.

What pasta works best in Pasta Fagioli?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal because they blend well with the beans and broth, providing bite-size texture without overwhelming the soup.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free small pasta or even small rice or corn-based shapes. The flavors remain just as delicious!

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli from scratch?

This recipe takes roughly 35 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time, making it a manageable option for a hearty weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting and timeless about a bowl of warm Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful. Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or looking to expand your soup repertoire, this recipe delivers both simple preparation and deep, satisfying flavor. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!

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