Name: Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni); 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Warm, nourishing, and endlessly comforting, Italian Pasta Fagioli is the kind of soup that brings people together around the table. This classic dish, brimming with tender pasta, creamy beans, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of Parmesan, is a time-honored staple in Italian homes for good reason. Whether you grew up with a Nonna who let you dip crusty bread into her bubbling pot or you just love discovering cozy new recipes, you’ll fall hard for every spoonful of this hearty, tomato-rich soup. Italian Pasta Fagioli is budget-friendly, full of flavor, and sure to earn a regular spot in your home-cooking rotation!

Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Italian Pasta Fagioli is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a meal that’s both hearty and deeply satisfying. Each ingredient plays a vital role: the beans bring creaminess, the pasta adds body, and the vegetables create a sweet foundation you’ll love.

Olive oil: The savory base for sautéing your veggies, infusing every bite with rich flavor.
Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth that ties the broth together beautifully.
Carrots (2, diced): Offer a lovely pop of color and gentle sweetness that balances the tomato broth.
Celery (2 stalks, diced): Lends an earthy undertone and a satisfying crunch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings in warmth and unmistakable Italian aroma.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Provides rustic, herbal notes that echo classic Italian dishes.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Contributes fragrant sweetness and a distinctly Mediterranean vibe.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a touch of heat to liven things up.
Diced tomatoes (1 15-oz can): The backbone of the broth, adding tang and a vibrant red color.
Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): Gives the soup body and comfort; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Cannellini beans (1 15-oz can, rinsed): Soft and creamy, these beans practically melt into the broth.
Red kidney beans (1 15-oz can, rinsed): Offer color, texture, and hearty substance in every spoonful.
Small pasta (1 cup, ditalini or elbow macaroni): Classic shapes that cook up perfectly tender and soak up all the flavor.
Bay leaf (1): Subtle but essential for that signature savory depth.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Customize to your liking and make every ingredient sing.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup plus more for serving): Adds creaminess and a pop of umami—don’t skip it for the authentic finish!
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: A sprinkle adds fresh color and a little herbal aroma to every bowl.

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and give everything a good stir. Cook these veggies for about 6 minutes, until they turn soft and glisten with the warmth of the oil. This forms the flavor-packed foundation of your Italian Pasta Fagioli—patience here makes the soup sing.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, add in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and (if you’re in the mood) red pepper flakes. Sauté for just about a minute, stirring often. You’ll smell the garlic and herbs blooming, promising all those soul-warming Italian vibes.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth and Beans

Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, both kinds of beans, and that essential bay leaf. Stir everything well and bring it to a lively boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let everything mingle for 15 minutes. If you want your Italian Pasta Fagioli extra creamy, try mashing some of the beans before they go in.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the small pasta of your choice. Let the soup simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just tender—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The pasta will soak up all those savory flavors as it cooks, turning the soup into a full meal in a bowl.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Fish out the bay leaf, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good stir until the cheese melts into the broth. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a scattering of fresh parsley for that final flourish.

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli

Garnishes

No bowl of Italian Pasta Fagioli is complete without a snowy sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of vibrant parsley. For a little twist, a drizzle of good olive oil or a dash of cracked pepper does wonders. These finishing touches elevate each serving from homemade to heartwarming.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with slices of crusty bread—think baguette, ciabatta, or even focaccia—on the side for dunking. If you’re looking to make it a true Italian meal, add a simple green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette or roasted vegetables brightened with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special night, ladle your Italian Pasta Fagioli into pretty soup bowls and top each with a Parmesan crisp. Or, serve in mini mugs or espresso cups at a party as a hearty appetizer. You could even offer a DIY topping bar: little bowls of pesto, red pepper flakes, or chopped olives let guests customize their own experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Pasta Fagioli is arguably even tastier the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Transfer cooled soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If it thickens considerably, just loosen it up with a splash of broth or water when you reheat.

Freezing

This soup freezes like a dream! For best results, freeze the soup before adding pasta, or cook pasta separately and combine when reheating. Portion into freezer-safe containers (leave space for expansion), seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened (as it often does with pasta and beans), don’t hesitate to add extra broth or water and stir well. Finish with fresh Parmesan and parsley for that just-cooked magic.

FAQs

Can I use different beans in my Italian Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! While cannellini and kidney beans are traditional, you can swap in great northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas depending on your pantry. The beauty of Italian Pasta Fagioli is its flexibility.

How do I make this recipe fully vegetarian or vegan?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The soup is naturally hearty and satisfying even without dairy.

What pasta shapes work best?

Ditalini and elbow macaroni are classic choices, but any small pasta will do. Tubetti, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well—just aim for bite-sized pieces for the best eating experience.

How can I make my Italian Pasta Fagioli extra creamy?

For extra richness, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the soup, or blend a cup of the finished soup and stir it back in. Adding the Parmesan cheese at the end is another great way to boost creaminess.

Is Italian Pasta Fagioli gluten-free?

It’s easy to make gluten-free by substituting your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the soup is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.

Final Thoughts

If your soul (or your stomach) is craving something truly comforting, there’s nothing quite like a big pot of Italian Pasta Fagioli to bring warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a taste of Italy at home, don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and start creating your own delicious memories.