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 family dinners or cozy gatherings, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is filled with beans and pasta, making it a filling meal that warms you up from the inside out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using your favorite type of pasta.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with protein from beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this dish is as wholesome as it is tasty.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup fits right in and pleases the crowd.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can elevate your cooking experience. Here’s what you need to prepare the Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficient prep work.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching the pot’s surface.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Protein and Beans

• 1 pound mild or spicy ground turkey or chicken sausage (casings removed)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)

Vegetables

• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced)
• 3 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 2 medium celery ribs (finely diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 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)

Optional Garnish

• 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, crumbling the meat while cooking.

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 Liquids

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 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, allowing it to melt and create 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 comforting bowl of Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Italian pasta fagioli soup is an art in itself. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil or Oregano: Add some aromatic basil or oregano leaves to elevate the traditional taste.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside to dip into the rich broth.
• Sourdough: A slice of sourdough bread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano: Add a generous sprinkle of grated cheese for a creamy finish.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top adds a delightful gooey texture.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.
• Caprese Salad: Tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad pairs perfectly for an Italian touch.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

To ensure your Italian pasta fagioli soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutrition.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a better texture, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for 10-15 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian pasta fagioli soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a refreshing appetizer.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty complement to the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance flavor while being healthy and satisfying.
5. Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter and cheese are perfect for dipping.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing vegetables properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always cook them until softened to enhance the soup’s taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you let the pasta cook too long, it will become mushy. Add it towards the end and check for al dente texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Good broth is essential for great soup. Choose high-quality low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness to your soup. Don’t skip adding them; they make a significant difference in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup:

What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty dish made with beans, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth.

Can I customize the ingredients in the Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables or use different types of beans based on your preference.

How do I make the Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground turkey or chicken sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

Preparation takes about 7 minutes, while cooking takes around 30 minutes for a total time of approximately 37 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only heartwarming but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or different herbs. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting classic!