Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Heartwarming Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe brings rustic comfort straight from Tuscany’s countryside kitchens. This delicious soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep. Packed with hearty beans, tender pasta, and a rich tomato broth, you’ll savor every spoonful of this classic dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beans, tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that warms the heart.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Versatile Dish: This soup allows for plenty of customization; add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to match your preferences.
• Nutritious Meal: Rich in protein and fiber, this soup is both satisfying and healthy, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as they provide even heat distribution and ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while also allowing you to break up meat easily.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface to chop vegetables ensures safety and efficiency in your preparation.

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Ingredients

To make this hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather these ingredients:

• 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)
• 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
• 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)
• 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 Meat

Brown sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes. Crumble the meat while cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the mixture. Cook for an additional minute to allow its fragrance to permeate the dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth along with cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, seasonings, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a rolling boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer for about five minutes.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Introduce pasta into the mixture and continue simmering for another 9–10 minutes until the pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Discard bay leaves from the pot. Remove from heat and fold in Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Adjust Thickness

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

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Garnish with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick of spice.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Italian pasta fagioli soup is a delightful experience that can bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience with this hearty dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Italian Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch for those who enjoy a little heat in their soup.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread for a flavorful accompaniment that complements the rich broth.

Include a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella enhances the Italian theme.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Italian pasta fagioli soup ensures every spoonful is delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or low-sodium chicken broth for a richer flavor base.
• Sauté Thoroughly: Make sure to sauté vegetables until they are soft to enhance their natural sweetness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta; it will continue cooking slightly after removed from heat.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving; flavors meld beautifully this way.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian pasta fagioli soup can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft bread knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible side.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil adds a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and veggies complement the soup nicely.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats (or alternatives), cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides variety.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer an earthy flavor that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
6. Focaccia Bread: This flavorful flatbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, small missteps can affect the overall flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality vegetables and broth enhance the soup’s flavor. Invest in good produce and low-sodium broth for the best taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can lead to mushy noodles. Add pasta during the last stages of cooking for an al dente texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables before adding broth builds a deeper flavor base. Don’t rush this step; allow the veggies to soften and release their aromas.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings before serving is crucial. Always sample your soup at the end to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Letting the soup sit for a little while after cooking helps all flavors combine beautifully. If time allows, let it rest before serving.
• Forgetting to remove bay leaves: Bay leaves add flavor but should be removed before serving. Ensure you don’t accidentally serve them with the soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! Feel free to substitute other beans like black beans or navy beans based on personal preference.

How can I make this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Replace ground turkey or chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of pasta is best for this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini work well as they hold up nicely in the soup.

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

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

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

Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar right before serving for brightness. Fresh herbs also elevate the taste!

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just hearty; it’s also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. It’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner that warms both body and soul. Give this comforting recipe a try; you’ll love every spoonful!