Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

If you’re chasing a feel-good meal that wraps you in cozy Italian flavors, look no further than this Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup. Imagine tender ditalini pasta swimming alongside creamy cannellini and red kidney beans in a savory broth enriched with sautéed onions, garlic, and a fragrant blend of oregano and basil. This soup is a perfect balance of textures and tastes — comforting and robust, yet light enough to enjoy any day of the week. Whether you want to warm up on a chilly evening or impress family and friends with authentic Italian home cooking, this recipe delivers a soul-satisfying experience that’s both nourishing and unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the heart and soul of this Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup; each brings vital layers of flavor, color, and texture that make this dish truly special. From aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables to nourishing beans and pasta, every component plays a starring role.

• Olive oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin for a silky base and to enhance the herbs’ flavors.
• Onion: Diced and sautéed until tender, it adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Garlic: Minced to infuse each spoonful with warm, aromatic intensity.
• Carrots: Diced for a subtle earthy sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery: Adds a crisp, slightly peppery undertone to complement the other veggies.
• Dried oregano: Brings that classic Italian earthiness with a hint of mint.
• Dried basil: Sweet and aromatic, it lifts the tomato notes beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings adjusted to your taste to balance all ingredients.
• Diced tomatoes: Provides rich color, acidity, and robust tomato flavor.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that marries everything together smoothly.
• Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, they add protein and a luscious texture contrast.
• Red kidney beans: Offer heartiness and a firmer bite for variety and visual appeal.
• Ditalini pasta: Tiny tube-shaped pasta that perfectly captures broth and beans in every bite.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A savory sprinkle to finish with a nutty, umami kick.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor at serving.

How to Make Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle sauteing releases the onion’s natural sweetness, forming the flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery

Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Let them cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally as their aromas fill the kitchen and the vegetables soften. This combination, often called mirepoix, brings complexity and body to your soup.

Step 3: Season with Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well, allowing these fragrant herbs to coat the vegetables evenly and toast lightly for about one minute. This step intensifies their flavor and aroma.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to blend the ingredients. This bubbling step melds the flavors and sets the stage for simmering.

Step 5: Simmer the Vegetables

Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes. At this point, the vegetables become tender, and the flavors start to deepen, creating a rich base for the soup.

Step 6: Add Beans and Pasta

Stir in the drained cannellini and red kidney beans as well as the ditalini pasta. Continue simmering for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta reaches the perfect al dente texture. This combination gives the soup its hearty, comforting nature.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Removal from Heat

Turn off the heat and taste the soup. Add additional salt and pepper if needed to balance and brighten the flavors. This final tweak ensures every spoonful sings with deliciousness.

Step 8: Serve with Classic Garnishes

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a scatter of chopped fresh parsley. These garnishes add a burst of cheesy nuttiness and fresh color that’s signature to this Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup.

How to Serve Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Garnishes

Beyond the Parmesan and parsley, you can personalize your bowl with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red chili flakes if you enjoy a gentle heat. A few shaved Parmesan slices elevate the visual appeal and boost the umami depth.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or garlic crostini, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth. A fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp, bright contrast that balances the hearty soup beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive touch, serve the soup inside hollowed-out rustic bread loaves turned into bowls. This makes a visually delightful centerpiece while naturally soaking up the broth as you eat. You can also serve it as a starter in small cups for casual gatherings or family-style in a big pot for cozy dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If the pasta absorbs too much broth and thickens the soup, simply stir in a splash of broth or water when reheating for renewed silky consistency.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, it’s best to omit the pasta before freezing because cooked pasta can become mushy. Freeze the soup base with beans separately in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight, reheat gently, and cook fresh pasta to add just before serving to maintain perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat your soup slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If needed, add a little broth or water to loosen the texture. Add fresh pasta or reheat pasta separately and combine for the best mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and make sure your Parmesan cheese is replaced with a vegan alternative if desired. The beans and vegetables will keep the soup hearty and flavorful.

What pasta can I use if I don’t have ditalini?

Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well as substitutes. Just keep an eye on cooking times so the pasta stays al dente.

How can I thicken the soup if I prefer a heartier texture?

You can gently mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the soup, which will thicken the broth naturally. Alternatively, let the soup simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid.

Is it possible to add meat to this soup?

Yes! Italian sausage, ground beef, or pancetta browned at the beginning will add richness and depth. Add the cooked meat back to the pot before simmering with the beans and pasta.

How long can this soup be stored safely after cooking?

Refrigerated properly, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup base as noted above for up to 3 months. Always use your senses to judge if leftovers are safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm invitation to slow down and savor the soul of Italian home cooking. Whether you’re new to making soups or a seasoned pro, its simple ingredients and straightforward steps deliver abundant comfort and flavor every single time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own little slice of Italian happiness.

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