The aroma of simmering garlic and herbs transports me straight to a bustling Italian kitchen, where every pot tells a story. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup—a soul-warming dish that’s both comforting and wholesome. With each spoonful, you’ll delight in the tender ditalini pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and vibrant carrots, all dancing together in a rich, tomato-based broth. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick one-pot meal that’s packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, with a vegan twist if you choose! So grab your favorite chopping knife and get ready to create a delightful bowl of goodness that will warm your heart. Are you ready to add a taste of Italy to your dinner table tonight? Why is this soup a must-try? Cozy Comfort: This Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. Nutritious Goodness: Packed with protein-rich beans and fresh vegetables, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors, ensuring you feel nourished with every spoonful. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a satisfying dish in no time—perfect for your busy weeknights. Versatile Options: Whether you prefer it vegetarian or want to add some Italian sausage for a twist, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit your taste. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love the hearty, soul-warming aroma that fills your kitchen. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a vibrant salad, and you’ll have a complete meal! So why not try this delicious soup tonight? For similar hearty recipes, don’t miss my Chicken Scampi Italian and enjoy cozy nights in! Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create this cozy delight! For the Base Olive Oil – Adds richness and depth; use extra virgin for a robust flavor. Onion – Builds the flavor base with a sweet and savory balance; shallots work well as a milder substitute. Garlic – Provides aromatic warmth; fresh garlic makes a huge difference in flavor intensity. Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and earthy undertones; consider parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Celery – Contributes a refreshing crunch and savory depth; you can omit it if necessary. For the Flavor Dried Oregano – Brings an earthy aroma to the soup; use fresh oregano at a threefold ratio for a bright flavor. Dried Basil – Enhances the tomato flavor with a sweet profile; fresh basil can be substituted if available. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste for perfect flavor harmony. For the Heartiness Diced Tomatoes – Provides acidity and bulk to the soup; canned tomatoes are convenient but fresh ripe tomatoes can elevate the dish. Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Forms the soup base; choose vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly. Cannellini Beans – Introduces creaminess and protein; chickpeas or navy beans can be a tasty substitute. Red Kidney Beans – Adds firm texture and color contrast; black beans can be an interesting twist. For the Final Touch Ditalini Pasta – Captures broth and flavors in each bite; feel free to swap it with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers a nutty finish; omit or replace with a vegan version to keep it plant-based. Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor; basil or cilantro can also bring delightful variations. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds before adding 1 diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The sweet aroma will start to fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Step 2: Add Garlic and Root Veggies Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot. Cook them together for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. The vibrant colors will brighten your pot, setting a hearty foundation for your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup. Step 3: Season the Mixture Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir the spices into the sautéed mixture and cook for 1 minute to toast the herbs, allowing their fragrant aromas to meld beautifully. This step will deepen the flavor profile of your soup. Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth Introduce 1 can of diced tomatoes (or 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes) along with 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil, then lower it to a gentle simmer. Let this delicious concoction bubble away for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and infuse. Step 5: Incorporate the Beans and Pasta Next, add 1 can each of cannellini beans and red kidney beans to the soup, followed by 1 cup of ditalini pasta. Stir everything well and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender yet al dente. Keep an eye on the pot, ensuring the pasta is perfectly cooked while absorbing all the savory flavors. Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. Once ready, ladle the Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup into bowls, garnishing each with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The vibrant colors and comforting aromas will create a delightful presentation. Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Variations Customize your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup for a delightful new twist or to accommodate dietary needs—with flavors that warm your soul! Vegan Delight: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit cheese for a wholesome plant-based version. Your taste buds won’t miss a beat! Add Spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile beautifully. Just a pinch can transform your cozy dish! Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, brown some Italian sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables; its rich flavor adds depth to the soup. It’s a comforting embrace in every spoonful! Pasta Swap: Trade out ditalini for any small pasta shape, like orzo or small shells, which absorb all the tasty broth while bringing a fun texture. Get creative with your pantry staples! Flavor Infusion: Swap dried herbs for fresh—three times the amount! Fresh oregano and basil will lend an aromatic freshness that brightens the entire soup. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like a trattoria! Hearty Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach at the end for added nutrition and vibrant color. It’s a simple way to boost the nutritional value without compromising flavor. Savory Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor and extra heartiness; they mix beautifully with the beans and pasta. Plus, they give your soup a wonderful umami kick! For more delicious ideas, be sure to check out my delightful Chicken Scampi Italian and discover more comforting recipes perfect for cozy nights in! What to Serve with Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup There’s nothing quite like complementing a warm bowl of soup with sides that elevate the entire meal experience. Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, this crunchy delight adds a satisfying texture. The rich garlic butter enhances the robust flavors of the soup with every bite. Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant mix of greens with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. The crisp veggies balance the creamy beans beautifully, creating a wholesome dining experience. Cheesy Breadsticks: These cheesy, buttery sticks are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for soaking up the hearty broth. Serve them warm for an extra buttery finish! Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, bring a sweet caramelized flavor to the meal. Their charred edges and tender bites perfectly complement the soup’s comforting warmth. Herbed focaccia: This fluffy bread, infused with fragrant rosemary, pairs wonderfully with the Italian essence of the soup. Enjoy it warm, fresh from the oven, with a drizzle of olive oil. Wine Pairings: A light Italian white or a medium-bodied red can enhance the meal’s flavors. Both options would harmonize well with the herbal undertones and bean richness in the soup. Indulge in these delightful pairings to transform your soup into a memorable feast that warms both the heart and the palate! Make Ahead Options Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup in a pot, add the canned beans and ditalini pasta, and simmer until the pasta is cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). This ensures you’ll serve a delicious, wholesome meal that’s just as flavorful as if it were freshly made! Storage Tips for Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Fridge: Cool completely before storing. The soup can last up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure to label it so you can enjoy those cozy flavors again soon! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Exclude the pasta before freezing, as it can become mushy. Add fresh pasta when reheating for optimal texture. Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth water if it has thickened. Stir until heated through! Airtight Storage: Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain the soup’s delicious flavors. Enjoy that comforting warmth all over again! Expert Tips for Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Pasta Timing: Ensure that you add the ditalini pasta into the soup later in the cooking process to avoid it becoming mushy. Fresh is Best: Using fresh garlic instead of powdered will enhance the flavor of your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, giving it that authentic depth. Herb Variations: Feel free to mix and match fresh herbs; if you have fresh basil, use it, or try adding thyme for an interesting twist. Texture Matters: If you find the soup thickens as it sits, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring back its lovely, soupy consistency. Batch Cooking: This soup actually tastes better the next day! Make a larger batch and enjoy the flavors that deepen overnight. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to cool completely before refrigerating for the best results! Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right vegetables for the soup? Absolutely! When it comes to selecting vegetables, look for fresh, vibrant carrots and celery. Carrots should be firm with no dark spots, while celery should be crisp. If you prefer to use substitutes, parsnips or sweet potatoes can add a sweet twist to your soup. Always opt for fresh garlic, as it provides better flavor than powdered varieties. How should I store leftover soup? Very easy! Once cooled, transfer your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup to airtight containers. It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to label your containers to maintain a rotation of your delicious leftovers! Can I freeze the soup? Yes, freezing is a great option! To freeze, first, let the soup cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to leave out the pasta, as it can become mushy during freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat and add freshly cooked pasta. What if the soup is too thick after storing? No worries at all! If you notice your soup has thickened when you reheat it, just add a splash of broth or water to bring back that lovely soupy consistency. Stir it well while heating over medium heat, and you’ll have it back to perfection in no time. Is this soup safe for my dietary needs? Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can easily make it vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting the cheese. If there are specific allergies, such as beans, consider swapping them with lentils or other protein sources. Always check labels when using pre-packaged items to ensure they meet your dietary restrictions. Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup for Cozy Nights In A comforting and wholesome Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup that's perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SoupCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons olive oil use extra virgin for robust flavor1 medium onion diced, substitute with shallots if desired3 cloves garlic minced2 medium carrots diced, consider parsnips or sweet potatoes2 stalks celery diced, can be omittedFor the Flavor1 teaspoon dried oregano or use fresh oregano at a threefold ratio1 teaspoon dried basil fresh basil can be substitutedto taste salt essential for seasoningto taste black pepper essential for seasoningFor the Heartiness1 can diced tomatoes or 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes6 cups chicken or vegetable broth use vegetable broth for vegetarian1 can cannellini beans or substitute with chickpeas or navy beans1 can red kidney beans or substitute with black beansFor the Final Touch1 cup ditalini pasta can substitute with any small pasta shapeto taste grated Parmesan cheese omit for vegan versionto taste fresh parsley can substitute with basil or cilantro Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot over medium heat, drizzle in olive oil. Allow it to warm for about 30 seconds before adding diced onion. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.Sprinkle in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to toast the herbs and cook for 1 minute.Introduce diced tomatoes and broth. Increase heat to boil, then lower to a simmer and let bubble for 15 minutes.Add cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and ditalini pasta. Stir and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes.Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls, garnishing each with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Soup can be frozen for up to 2 months without pasta, and reheat with added broth to restore consistency. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
