Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

This hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that combines lean protein, tender vegetables, and savory herbs in a rich tomato broth. It’s not only filling but also brimming with classic Italian flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Broth & Beans
• Seasoning & Herbs
• Final Touches
• How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
• Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs
• Step 3: Incorporate Garlic
• Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans
• Step 5: Cook the Pasta
• Step 6: Finish the Soup
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Serving Style
• How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
• How do I enhance the flavor of my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• How long does Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?
• Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
• What is traditionally served with Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of sausage, beans, and fresh herbs creates a robust taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be made in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spices and add more veggies based on your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience as you make this delicious Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Provides enough space for cooking all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot.

Ingredients

This hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is packed with lean protein, tender vegetables, savory herbs, and two types of beans in a rich tomato broth. It’s comforting, filling, and brimming with classic Italian flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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

Broth & Beans

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (16 oz) tomato sauce

Seasoning & Herbs

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

Final Touches

• 1 cup (4 oz) dried pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini)
• 3 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus more for serving
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes while breaking it apart as it browns.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs

Add the onion, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans

Add the chicken broth along with cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat; then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the pasta and simmer for another 9–10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Finish the Soup

Remove bay leaves from the pot. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano on top and crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some heat!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its comforting qualities and making it a delightful meal for you and your guests. Here are some suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Top each bowl with additional chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle on top for a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Serve with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for a rich, cheesy finish.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad: A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of cheeses that pair well with the flavors of Italy, such as mozzarella or provolone.

Serving Style

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls with garnishes on top for a personal touch.
• Family Style: Place the pot on the table and let everyone serve themselves for a cozy, communal feel.

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How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to fit your preference; this enhances the overall taste.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: To keep pasta al dente, add it towards the end of cooking time and monitor closely.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light complement to the hearty soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil brings freshness to your meal.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a nice crunch alongside the soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses provides a flavorful appetizer option.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked peppers filled with rice and cheese make a filling side dish that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can alter the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables and sausage first can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always start by cooking them until softened.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland soup. Make sure to season throughout the cooking process.

• Overcooking pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the soup.

• Using low-quality broth: A poor broth can ruin the flavor of your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup. Use low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping the garnishes like Parmigiano-Reggiano or parsley takes away from the presentation and flavor enhancement. Always finish with fresh ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup that may help you during your cooking process:

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute turkey sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more beans or vegetables for protein.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano, and consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for extra depth of flavor.

How long does Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match beans such as black beans or pinto beans based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

What is traditionally served with Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that complements this hearty soup perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just comforting; it’s versatile and packed with flavors that delight any palate. Customize it with your preferred proteins or vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy a warm bowl today!