Name: Hearty Pasta e Fagioli Soup for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.); 1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onions work beautifully.); 2 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced is best, but dried can be used.); 2 medium Carrots (Replace with parsnips for a different flavor.); 2 stalks Celery (Can be omitted if desired.); 1 can Cannellini Beans (Rinse and drain before use.); 6 cups Broth (Use vegetable or chicken broth.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (Chopped, dried can be a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (Chopped, dried can be a substitute.); 1 cup Small Pasta (e.g., Ditalini or elbow macaroni.); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (Omit for a vegan version.); to taste Salt and Pepper; to garnish Fresh Parsley (Feel free to use other herbs.)

As I stirred the pot, the aroma of simmering vegetables danced around my kitchen, leading me swiftly back to the cozy evenings of my childhood. Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the ultimate heartwarming Italian dish that perfectly marries tender pasta and creamy cannellini beans in a savory broth. Not only does this comforting soup warm the soul, but it also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. With quick prep and hearty nutrition packed into every spoonful, it’s a nourishing choice that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re treating your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Ready to discover how to create this cozy classic? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Pasta e Fagioli Soup special?

Heartwarming Comfort: This Pasta e Fagioli Soup delivers a cozy embrace in every bowl, showcasing the traditional flavors of Italy that remind you of home.

Diverse Adaptability: Want a vegan twist? Or gluten-free? This recipe easily adapts to fit various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Hearty Nutrition: Packed with protein from cannellini beans and fiber-rich veggies, it’s a nutritious option for anyone craving comfort food.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this nourishing soup on the table in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Friends and family alike will rave about this dish, making it a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings or casual dinners. Dive into this inviting recipe and transform your mealtime!

Pasta e Fagioli Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Provides richness and moisture; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; yellow or white onions work beautifully in this dish.
Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; freshly minced is best, but dried can be used in a pinch.
Carrots – Introduces sweetness and color; replace with parsnips if you’re looking for a different taste experience.
Celery – Adds crunch and a fresh taste; can be omitted for a simpler flavor base if desired.
Cannellini Beans – Contributes creaminess and protein; using canned beans saves time—just be sure to rinse and drain.
Broth – Acts as the soup’s hearty base; both vegetable and chicken broth work well, while homemade adds an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme) – Brightens and elevates flavor; dried herbs can be a handy substitute if fresh isn’t available.
Pasta (e.g., Ditalini, Elbow Macaroni) – Provides heartiness; choose small shapes that hold broth beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and umami; omit for a vegan version or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Parsley – For garnish, bringing a burst of freshness; feel free to use other herbs if you want to mix things up.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to release their fragrant aromas.

Step 2: Build the Base
Once the vegetables are softened, stir in 1 can of drained cannellini beans and pour in 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and allow it to cook for 15–20 minutes. You’ll see bubbles rising, and the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a harmonious base for your Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Step 3: Season
After letting the soup simmer, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme. Additionally, generously season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, letting the herbs infuse their aromatic essence into the broth, enhancing the warmth of this hearty soup.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and add 1 cup of small pasta, like Ditalini or elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly, making sure to reserve the cooking water in case you need to adjust the consistency of your soup later on.

Step 5: Combine
Just before serving, add the cooked pasta directly into the pot of soup and gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to heat through for an additional 2–3 minutes. This ensures that the pasta absorbs some of the broth without becoming mushy, maintaining its delightful texture in your Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the soup from heat and grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese into the pot, stirring until melted and incorporated. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and drizzle with more olive oil if desired. Serve your comforting Pasta e Fagioli Soup with warm crusty bread for a fulfilling meal!

Expert Tips for Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Perfect Pasta Texture: Always cook pasta separately and add it right before serving to ensure it remains firm and doesn’t become mushy in your Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Flavor Boosting: For an extra flavor punch, try adding a splash of white wine to the broth after sautéing the vegetables, then let it cook off before adding beans and broth.

Customize Your Beans: If you’re not a fan of cannellini beans, feel free to substitute them with kidney or black beans for unique tastes and textures while maintaining heartiness.

Herb Choices: Fresh herbs shine, but if you only have dried, use one-third the amount since dried herbs are stronger. Adjust seasoning as needed for your Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Storage Savvy: Keep pasta separate from the soup when storing leftovers. This helps maintain its texture and allows you to reheat without it becoming soggy.

Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color; they’ll wilt quickly and enhance the soup’s visual appeal!

Make Ahead Options

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, cook the pasta separately, allowing it to be ready to add at the last minute. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting soup, simply sauté the aromatics, add the broth and beans, and stir in your prepped vegetables. Finish cooking for a few minutes before adding the pasta. This method ensures you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort, providing you with just as delightful results on busy weeknights!

Variations of Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this Pasta e Fagioli Soup to your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegan Version: Swap the broth for vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese for a plant-based delight that still warms the heart.
This is a simple change that doesn’t compromise on flavor. You’ll still enjoy the rich, comforting essence of this classic soup!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for an enjoyable option that aligns with gluten sensitivities.
The great news is that many gluten-free pasta shapes maintain texture beautifully, making every spoonful just as satisfying!
Chili Heat: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of spice.
This bold adjustment adds an exciting layer of heat that’ll keep you coming back for more, elevating your soup to new heights!
Different Beans: Replace cannellini beans with kidney or black beans for a different flavor profile and texture.
By experimenting with beans, you can create a unique twist on this classic dish, each version telling its own story.
Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Boosting the veggie count not only increases the health benefits but also delivers a vibrant dish that’s a feast for the eyes!
Classic Macaroni: Switch to elbow macaroni for a more traditional taste reminiscent of childhood comforts.
The familiar shape adds nostalgia to your meal, making each bite a delightful journey back to simpler times.
Herb Variations: Try different fresh herbs like basil or oregano to season your soup according to your preferences.
Herb choices can significantly shift the flavor landscape, turning this dish into your culinary canvas!
Creamy Twist: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or unsweetened cashew cream towards the end of cooking.
This luxurious addition envelops the soup in velvety goodness, instantly transforming it into a comforting indulgence!

Once you try these variations, you may just find yourself with a new favorite version that suits your palate! If you’re looking for a classic combination, consider serving with warm crusty bread for dipping, or pair it with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.

What to Serve with Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Warm your heart and elevate your Pasta e Fagioli Soup experience with the perfect pairings that complement its comforting flavors.

Crusty Garlic Bread: Savor the crispy, buttery goodness that’s ideal for dipping in the hearty soup broth. It adds a delightful texture contrast.
Simple Green Salad: A side of fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and refreshes the palate.
Sautéed Spinach: The mild, earthy notes of sautéed spinach wilted with garlic and olive oil enhance the nutritional profile of your meal. It’s vibrant and full of life!
Cheesy Herb Biscuits: These fluffy, savory bites are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup while bringing an extra layer of flavor.
Parmesan Crisps: Delightfully crunchy, these cheese crisps bring a salty, savory kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy beans in the soup.
Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti adds depth and warmth to your meal, enhancing the rich flavors of the soup while elevating the dining experience.
Lemon-Infused Water: Staying hydrated with this zesty drink refreshes your palate and complements the savory notes of the dish.
Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, this light and airy dessert contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup, leaving you satisfied yet wanting more!

How to Store and Freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Fridge: Store your Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers even tastier!

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup without pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy upon reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

Pasta Storage: If you want to keep the pasta separate, store it in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer freshness.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beans for Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Absolutely! Cannellini beans are perfect for their creamy texture, but you can also use kidney or black beans if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed if using canned beans!

What’s the best way to store leftover Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
To maintain freshness, store your Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup’s flavors improve over time, so those leftovers can be even better the next day!

Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup? If so, how?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the soup without pasta in freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat, adding broth or water to adjust the consistency.

What if my pasta gets mushy in the soup?
No worries! To prevent mushy pasta, always cook it separately and then add it to the soup just before serving. If you’ve already combined them, you can try draining some of the liquid, adding in fresh broth, and serving more immediately to maintain its texture.

Are there any dietary considerations when making Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Definitely! This recipe is quite adaptable—use vegetable broth and omit Parmesan cheese for a vegan version. If you have gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free pasta. Always check ingredient labels for allergens to ensure it fits your dietary needs.

How long can I store the pasta separately if I want to keep it for the soup later?
Cooked pasta can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to toss it lightly with a bit of oil to prevent sticking before storage!