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 cozy family dinners or serving guests on special occasions, this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe showcases the flavors of Italy while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beans, tomatoes, and herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and veggies, this soup is both healthy and filling.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are the key items you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without spillage.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing in all the flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise chopping, saving you time in prep.

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Ingredients

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.

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 Sausage

In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey or chicken sausage for 4–5 minutes. Crumble the meat while cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add in the finely diced onions, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to allow its fragrance to permeate the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth along with the rinsed cannellini beans, red kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a rolling boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Introduce your choice of pasta into the mix. Continue simmering for 9–10 minutes until pasta reaches al dente texture.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Discard bay leaves once cooked. Remove pot from heat and fold in freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

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

Step 8: Serve

Ladle into serving bowls garnished with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes to add some spice if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Italian pasta fagioli soup is an opportunity to enhance its hearty flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will take your soup to the next level.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with additional chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness and color that elevates the presentation.

Serve with Cheese

• Offer grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side for guests to sprinkle on their soup, adding creaminess and depth.

Include Spicy Extras

• Set out crushed red pepper flakes so diners can customize the heat level of their soup according to their preference.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Making the best Italian pasta fagioli soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for deep flavor and nutrition.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup as it cooks, adjusting salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store Wisely: If making ahead, store the pasta separately from the soup to maintain its texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Complementing your Italian pasta fagioli soup with delicious side dishes enhances both flavor and satisfaction. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is an ideal companion that complements the soup’s robust flavors.
2. Caprese Salad: This classic salad of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness and freshness.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a tasty appetizer or side.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy side dish that’s easy to prepare.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty stuffed peppers filled with grains or quinoa make for a filling addition.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses creates a festive spread for sharing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian pasta fagioli soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it turns mushy. Cook until al dente, since it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping or skimping on salt and pepper can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings for flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality broth or canned goods can impact taste. Choose low-sodium broth and high-quality canned beans for best results.
• Not Sautéing Vegetables Properly: Failing to sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened can result in a less flavorful base. Take time to properly cook these ingredients.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Not adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary reduces complexity. Always include fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor profile.
• Neglecting to Remove Bay Leaves: Leaving bay leaves in the soup can cause an unpleasant texture. Remember to discard them before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian pasta fagioli soup in airtight containers.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. 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 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian pasta fagioli soup.

What is the best type of pasta to use in Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Small shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini work best as they hold up well during cooking and fit nicely on a spoon.

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute turkey sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

The total time is around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy option for lunch or dinner.

Can I add different vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition and variety.

How can I customize my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

You can adjust spices, add different types of beans, or include leafy greens based on your preferences for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

This Italian pasta fagioli soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth all year round. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have available or your personal tastes. Try this recipe today and enjoy hearty satisfaction with every bowl!