The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup

Name: The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups small pasta (like ditalini or elbow); Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

December 7, 2025 by Sophia Green

Bowl of delicious homemade Pasta Fagioli Soup with herbs and beans.

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Embrace Coziness This Winter with The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup

As the days shorten and temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Enter The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup, a dish that captures the very essence of coziness. With its rich, savory broth and delightful mix of beans and pasta, each spoonful envelops you like a soft, familiar hug, making it perfect for chilly weeknights or festive gatherings. The gentle bubbling in your pot, the aromatic symphony of sautéing vegetables, and the enticing scent that wafts through your kitchen are irresistible invitations to share this meal with loved ones.

Picture a cozy evening, perhaps after a brisk walk outside or a long day at work, where the allure of The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup beckons from the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at the dinner table or packing it for lunch the next day, this dish has a way of turning the mundane into something extraordinary. Warm your hearts and nourish your bodies with this delightful recipe, perfect for anyone who cherishes comfort food at its finest.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the joys of cooking, gather your ingredients and tools to create a kitchen oasis. The process is simple yet satisfying, ensuring that you’ll be rewarded with a bubbling pot of deliciousness.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Tools

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Cutting board
Knife

How to Make It

Let’s embark on the delightful journey of putting together The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup. With a few simple steps, you’ll create a warming meal that will envelop your senses in a symphony of flavors.

Prep the Base

Begin your cozy adventure by placing a large pot on the stove, the gleaming surface inviting you to create. Pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat; the gentle sizzle sends a welcoming signal that the kitchen is coming to life. As the oil dances, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, letting them sauté together until they soften, about five minutes. The aroma that rises is reminiscent of an Italian trattoria, filling your home with a warm yet invigorating scent.

Next, stir in the minced garlic, letting it mingle with the vegetables for an additional minute. The fragrant essence of garlic envelops the air, awakening your appetite, and preparing you for the delicious journey ahead. Your kitchen begins to feel like a rustic little oasis as the vibrant colors of the vegetables blend together, promising a nourishing meal just around the corner.

Build the Flavor

Now it’s time to elevate the flavors with the bold ingredients that make The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup truly shine. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, watching as their vibrant red contrasts beautifully with the golden vegetables. Then, pour in the vegetable broth, allowing it to come to a gentle boil. As the bubbles begin to break the surface, add the kidney and cannellini beans, their creamy textures creating a delightful contrast to the other components.

Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil, infusing the mixture with a fragrant herbaceousness that dances through the kitchen. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper balance these flavors, coaxing the simmering broth into a delightful embrace. Allow the mixture to reach a boiling point, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The soup thickens slightly, and the aromas deepen, enveloping your kitchen in an irresistible warmth.

Add the Pasta

As the soup develops its flavors, it’s time to invite the pasta into this savory gathering. Stir in the small pasta, like ditalini or elbow, and let it cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. The pasta, tender yet slightly firm, absorbs the rich flavors of the broth, creating a harmonious bond that is simply delightful.

Take a moment to experience this sensory delight. The sound of bubbling broth, the vibrant medley of colors, and the smell of herbs and beans wafting through the air are a feast for the senses, intertwining their voices in perfect harmony.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Once the pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture, it’s time for the grand tasting. Ladle a bit into a bowl and savor the first warm embrace of the flavors. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. This step reminds you that cooking is an art—the final touch that personalizes your soup to your palate.

Serve and Garnish

Now, the moment has arrived to serve your masterpiece! Ladle generous portions of The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup into bowls, adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. As you watch the steam rise, inviting you to dig in, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the creation that began as mere ingredients and transformed into a hug in a bowl.

Creative Twists

The beauty of The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup lies within its versatility. Here are a few creative twists to personalize your dish further:

Seasonal Vegetables: Depending on the time of year, toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a colorful, nutritious enhancement.
Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to bring a delightful warmth to the soup, perfect for those firewood nights.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, overshadowing the traditional oregano for a refreshing twist.
Protein Boost: For those wanting a protein-packed option, consider adding cooked sausage or diced chicken, ensuring a hearty delight.
Grain Swaps: Swap out traditional pasta for quinoa or farro to create a nutty flavor and added nutrition.

Final Inspiration

In the heart of winter, The Best Pasta Fagioli Soup is a timeless classic that offers warmth and comfort like no other. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reason to gather around the table, share stories, and create lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, embrace the coziness, and let the enticing aroma draw family and friends to your kitchen.

Each bite brings nourishment to your body, and every bowl serves as a reminder of the simple joys found in good food and great company. Try this recipe today, and I promise it will become a cherished part of your culinary tradition, warming your home and heart long after the last spoonful is savored.

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