Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

This hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with lean protein from turkey sausage, tender vegetables, and two kinds of beans in a rich tomato broth, this soup warms you from the inside out. Its comforting nature makes it an all-time favorite, ideal for chilly nights when you crave something filling and satisfying.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Beans and Tomatoes
• For Seasoning
• For Pasta & Garnish
• How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook Sausage
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Add Garlic
• Step 4: Add Broth and Beans
• Step 5: Cook the Pasta
• Step 6: Final Touches
• Step 7: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With Grated Cheese
• As a Meal Prep Option
• Accompanied by a Simple Salad
• With a Splash of Lemon
• How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
• How do I store leftover Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
• What type of pasta works best in this soup?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nourishing and Hearty: This soup combines lean meats and beans, making it a filling dish that provides essential nutrients.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total cook time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for quick meals later on.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of herbs and spices creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistency in flavor and texture.

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.

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 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

For Seasoning

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

For Pasta & Garnish

• 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)

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How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, 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.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Add the chicken broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat; then reduce 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: Final Touches

Remove and discard bay leaves. Remove soup from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach desired consistency. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve hot garnished with more Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread pairs perfectly with the soup. Use it to soak up the rich broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with extra chopped parsley or basil for a burst of fresh flavor.

With Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano over each serving for added richness and depth.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store individual portions in airtight containers for easy reheating during busy weeknights.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with olive oil and vinegar for a light contrast.

With a Splash of Lemon

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Making the perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is always delicious.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices throughout cooking for well-balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, cook pasta al dente separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a while lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try different types of sausage or even vegetarian options like mushrooms for variety.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

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Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

To complement your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider pairing it with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that will elevate your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds crunch and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender can enhance your dining experience.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta makes an excellent base that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat can be a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to look out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables and sausage first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until they are softened and fragrant.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it for too long can result in mushy noodles. Add pasta towards the end of the cooking time and monitor it closely for al dente texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving may lead to a bland soup. Be sure to season gradually and taste as you go.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Not using fresh herbs or good-quality broth can diminish the overall taste. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible for a more vibrant soup.
• Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can affect the soup’s quality over time. Make sure to use airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• The soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in 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, usually about 5-10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup:

What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

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

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute sausage with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftover Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini are ideal as they hold up well during cooking and absorb flavors nicely.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup by adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors and satisfying texture!

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