Name: Cozy Italian Pasta Fagioli Comfort Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup small pasta (ditalini); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

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Cozy Italian Pasta Fagioli Comfort Soup 🍲✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and comforting pasta dish that transports you straight to Italy, then look no further than this incredible Pasta Fagioli recipe. Known as Italian pasta e fagioli, this soul-satisfying hearty bean soup is a versatile and nutritious meal perfect for any season. Rich with beans, pasta, and a flavorful broth, this comforting pasta dish is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. In this guide, we will walk you through every step to create this classic Italian soup that will become your new favorite.

2. Ingredients for the Pasta Fagioli Recipe

1 cup dried cannellini beans (or your favorite beans)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 cup small pasta (elbows or ditalini)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Hearty Bean Soup

Soak and cook the beans

Start by soaking the dried beans overnight into a large bowl of water. Drain and rinse the beans, then cook in boiling water until tender, about 1 hour. Alternatively, use canned beans for a quicker version. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the vegetable base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine ingredients and simmer

Add the cooked beans, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the pasta

While the soup simmers, cook your pasta separately in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. You can also add the pasta directly into the soup during the last 10 minutes for a one-pot meal.

Finish and serve

If you cooked the pasta separately, add it to the soup just before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy this hearty Italian pasta e fagioli soup hot, served with crusty bread.

4. Storage and Reheating Tips

This pasta fagioli recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for convenience. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, consider adding freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Comforting Pasta Dish

Pair this Italian pasta e fagioli with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Its rich and savory flavors make it a perfect dish to enjoy on cozy nights or as part of a family feast. For an extra touch, drizzle with good quality olive oil or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Pasta Fagioli

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! Using canned beans can save you time. Just drain and rinse them, then add to the soup during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Is Pasta Fagioli a healthy and nutritious dish?

Yes, this hearty bean soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Using fresh vegetables and legumes makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal suitable for most diets.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

Preparation and cooking time total approximately 50-60 minutes, especially if cooking dried beans from scratch. Using pre-cooked or canned beans can reduce active cooking time.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick reheats or making crispy bread for serving alongside the soup, enhancing your cozy meal experience.

T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – A reliable set that makes stovetop cooking and simmering effortless.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Espresso & Coffee Maker – For a warm beverage pairing, adding that Italian cafe touch to your meal.

8. Conclusion

This Pasta Fagioli recipe is a timeless Italian comfort dish that combines hearty beans, tender pasta, and aromatic herbs to create a soul-satisfying soup. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or meal prepping, this hearty bean soup is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and is always a crowd-pleaser. Embrace this classic with your own twist and enjoy the warm flavor of Italy in every bowl.

Cozy Italian Pasta Fagioli Comfort Soup