Classic Pasta Fagioli – Hearty and Comforting Italian Soup
Pasta Fagioli Recipe: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish
Pasta Fagioli is a timeless Italian comfort dish that warms the heart and soul with each spoonful. This classic Italian soup, often referred to as “Pasta e Fagioli,” beautifully balances tender pasta with creamy beans in a rich tomato-infused broth. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers authentic flavors with minimal effort.
Italian Pasta Fagioli is a staple in many households thanks to its affordability and simplicity. Made with simple pantry essentials like beans, pasta, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a dish that brings out deep, satisfying flavors with every bite. The combination of fresh herbs, tomatoes, and spices makes this a standout meal that captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A rich and savory broth with a balance of sweet tomatoes, garlic, and earthy beans.
- Texture: Hearty and satisfying, featuring tender pasta and creamy beans.
- Aroma: A fragrant blend of garlic, onions, and Italian herbs enhances every spoonful.
- Visual Appeal: A vibrant medley of red tomatoes, golden pasta, and lightly speckled herbs.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with basic cooking techniques.
- Special Equipment: A large pot or Dutch oven for slow simmering.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy – requires only basic cooking skills, making it accessible for beginners.
- Category: Soups and Stews – perfect for cozy nights and comforting meals.
- Cuisine: Italian – a traditional recipe passed down through generations.
- Cost: Budget-friendly – made with pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients.
- Season: Ideal for fall and winter, but enjoyable year-round.
- Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pasta Fagioli is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold nights or when you crave a wholesome meal. The combination of slow-simmered tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and creamy beans provides a deep, satisfying taste with every bite.
This recipe is incredibly convenient since it relies on simple pantry ingredients that are easy to find, making it a great last-minute dinner solution. It also comes together quickly and requires minimal hands-on time.
With its protein-rich beans and fiber-packed pasta, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. You get a balanced meal with essential vitamins, minerals, and hearty carbohydrates.
Pasta Fagioli is great for meal prep and leftovers. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day. It’s an excellent choice for batch cooking and freezing.
It’s one of those classic dishes that bring people together. Whether you serve it for a cozy family dinner or an intimate gathering, it’s a dish that fosters warm memories.
The Recipe
Pasta Fagioli
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Can opener
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, drained beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.
Recipe Notes
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans before adding them.
- You can use any small pasta, but traditional options include ditalini or elbow macaroni.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
