Recipe for Pasta Fagioli Soup

🥣 Pasta Fagioli Soup (Authentic Italian Style)

⭐ Why You’ll Love It

Hearty, warming, and packed with flavor

Budget-friendly and easy to make

Perfect for leftovers – tastes even better the next day

A one-pot meal the whole family will love

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🛒 Ingredients & Their Role

2 tablespoons olive oil – Base for sautéing, adds rich flavor

1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth

2 carrots, diced – Natural sweetness and texture

2 celery stalks, diced – Classic mirepoix base, adds aroma

3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential Italian flavor

1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds earthy herb notes

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements beans and vegetables

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle kick

Salt & black pepper to taste – Balances and enhances all flavors

2 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds depth and umami

1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes – The heart of the tomato broth

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – Makes the base of the soup

2 (15 oz) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed – Creamy texture and protein

1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta like elbow) – The “pasta” in pasta fagioli

1 bay leaf – Adds subtle flavor complexity

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish) – Fresh herbal finish

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – Salty, nutty topping

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.

2. Add garlic and seasonings:

Stir in garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Build the base:

Add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well.

4. Add beans and bay leaf:

Add the drained beans and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Cook the pasta:

Stir in the pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. (Add extra broth or water if soup becomes too thick.)

6. Season to taste:

Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serve:

Ladle into bowls. Top with fresh parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

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🔥 Pro Tips

Cook pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers. Add it when reheating to avoid mushy pasta.

Blend part of the beans before adding to the soup if you like a thicker, creamier texture.

Add pancetta or ground beef if you want a meaty version.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast

A light side salad 

with vinaigrette balances the richness

Drizzle with olive oil or top with chili flakes for extra warmth