Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

This hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Featuring tender beans, vegetables, and savory sausage in a rich tomato broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with family, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy the comforting essence of Italy right from your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of herbs, tomatoes, and sausage creates a depth of flavor that will warm you from the inside out.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and lean sausage, this soup is both nutritious and hearty.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in about 40 minutes.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it on its own or pair with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup thickens nicely over time, making it even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Provides enough space to cook all ingredients evenly without overflowing.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and efficient chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook 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: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for about 6 minutes until softened while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Garlic

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

Step 4: Combine Liquids

Add the chicken broth along with cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat before reducing to a simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Finish the Soup

Remove bay leaves from the pot. Off heat, stir in Parmesan cheese. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Season further with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot while garnishing each bowl with additional Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your serving style, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Italian parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this is a perfect addition.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette on the side for dipping.
• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Offer Cheese Options

• Parmesan cheese: Provide freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for an extra savory touch.
• Mozzarella: Add fresh mozzarella balls for a creamy texture contrast.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar salad: The classic Caesar offers a hearty side, adding crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is truly delightful, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables bring out the best flavors in your soup.
• Cook pasta separately: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. Add it just before serving.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavor development; just be mindful not to overcook the pasta.
• Experiment with beans: Different beans can provide unique flavors and textures; feel free to mix them up!
• Store properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It thickens upon standing, so add broth when reheating.

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Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Complementing your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair perfectly with this hearty soup.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a fresh kick.
2. Caprese salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful contrast.
3. Antipasto platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing starter.
4. Garlic knots: Soft bread knots brushed with garlic butter offer irresistible bites alongside your soup.
5. Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a nutritious and flavorful side.
6. Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta pairs well, offering a comforting starch that complements the soup’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes might hinder your results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables and sausage can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients before adding liquids.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin your soup’s taste. Opt for low sodium chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Every ingredient varies in flavor intensity. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long will make it mushy. Follow the cooking time carefully and aim for al dente.
• Ignoring storage tips: Not storing leftovers properly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze immediately after cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and sausage simmered in a rich tomato broth.

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the sausage with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftover Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I customize my Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or swap out beans based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total cooking time is about 40 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a chilly night or a satisfying meal any day of the week, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Try making it today!

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