Authentic Pasta Fagioli Recipe – Hearty Italian Comfort Soup -

Introduction to Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli, known affectionately in Italy as Pasta e Fagioli, translates to “pasta and beans”—a humble dish that has earned its place in Italian culinary history. Originally crafted by peasants with pantry staples, it is now beloved in homes and fine restaurants worldwide. What makes Pasta Fagioli truly special is its ability to transform simple ingredients like pasta, beans, tomatoes, and herbs into a bowl of warm, hearty perfection.

This comprehensive, long-form recipe guide will walk you through everything from choosing ingredients, step-by-step preparation, smart cooking tips, variations, nutrition, and even frequently asked questions. Whether you’re making it for a quiet family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Pasta Fagioli is nutritious, affordable, and delicious—a recipe that nourishes both body and soul.

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Ingredients for the Best Pasta Fagioli

Vegetable and Flavor Base

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing aromatics
1 yellow onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
2 celery stalks, chopped – provides a crunchy earthiness
2 carrots, peeled and diced – lends natural sweetness
4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for rich, aromatic flavor
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – adds a touch of heat

Tomato and Herb Infusion

1 tablespoon tomato paste – enhances tomato richness
1 can (15 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes – the gold standard for Italian recipes
1 teaspoon dried oregano – earthy and herby
1 teaspoon dried basil – brings a sweet and peppery aroma
1 teaspoon dried thyme – sharp and slightly minty
1 bay leaf – adds a complex savory note
Salt and black pepper to taste – essential seasoning for balance

Beans and Pasta

2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans or borlotti beans – the heart of the dish
1 cup ditalini pasta (or elbow, small shells) – small pasta works best
4 cups vegetable broth – creates the flavorful soup base
1 cup water – to adjust consistency

Finishing Touches

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – salty and nutty finish
2 tablespoons chopped parsley – for freshness and color
Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil – added richness and sheen
Crusty bread – perfect for dipping and scooping

Step-by-Step Preparation of Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base

Begin with a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add olive oil and heat over medium. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring often. You’ll want the vegetables to be:

Softened but not browned
Glassy in texture
Fragrant with sweet undertones

This trio, often called soffritto, forms the flavor backbone of the soup.

Step 2: Build Rich Flavor with Garlic and Tomato Paste

Once the aromatics are soft, stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add tomato paste and stir constantly for another 2–3 minutes. This step:

Concentrates the tomato flavor
Adds depth to the broth
Helps bind ingredients together

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Broth

Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and water. Stir in oregano, basil, thyme, and a bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer for 15–20 minutes, uncovered.

This simmering process:

Allows herbs to infuse the broth
Softens tomato acidity
Thickens the liquid slightly for body

Step 4: Add Beans and Cook the Pasta

After the broth has simmered, add in drained and rinsed beans. Let them cook in the soup for 5–7 minutes to warm through and absorb flavor. Then, stir in ditalini pasta and cook for 10–12 minutes until al dente.

Important pasta cooking tips:

Stir frequently to avoid sticking
Keep heat at medium-low for even cooking
Taste often to ensure the pasta doesn’t overcook

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving Prep

Remove the bay leaf and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes. Serve hot in deep bowls with:

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top
A dusting of Parmesan cheese
A drizzle of olive oil
Crusty bread or garlic toast on the side

Recipe Variations for Pasta Fagioli

Make It Meaty

Add Italian sausage, pancetta, or ground beef sautéed in step 1
Use chicken broth for extra savory flavor
Finish with crumbled bacon for smokiness

Make It Creamy

Blend half the soup using an immersion blender for creaminess
Add ½ cup heavy cream or grated Pecorino Romano at the end
Top with a dollop of ricotta or whipped feta

Make It Vegan

Use vegetable broth
Skip cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Blend white beans for a naturally creamy broth

Make It Gluten-Free

Swap in gluten-free pasta
Use rice or lentil pasta alternatives
Ensure your broth and canned beans are certified gluten-free

Make It Spicy

Add extra chili flakes, Calabrian chili paste, or a splash of hot sauce
Garnish with spicy giardiniera or pickled jalapeños

Cooking Note

Pasta absorbs liquid over time. If you’re preparing this recipe for meal prep or leftovers:

Cook pasta separately and store it individually
Add fresh broth when reheating to restore the soup’s texture
Avoid overcooking the beans to prevent mushiness

This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

Serving Suggestions for Pasta Fagioli

To elevate your Pasta Fagioli, pair it with:

Toasted ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia
A crisp Italian side salad with vinaigrette
Marinated olives or caprese skewers
A glass of red wine like Chianti or Montepulciano

For family dinners, consider setting up a “build-your-own bowl” bar with:

Grated cheeses (Parmesan, Pecorino, Romano)
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley
Crushed red pepper or chili oil
Lemon wedges for a bright citrus kick

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Fagioli

Choose quality ingredients: Go for San Marzano tomatoes and imported pasta for authenticity
Use a large pot to allow proper bubbling and easy stirring
Stir frequently when adding pasta to avoid sticking or scorching
Layer flavors slowly for richness—don’t rush the simmer
Finish with acid: A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can brighten the whole bowl

Prep Time

15 minutes – chopping, prepping aromatics, gathering ingredients

Cooking Time

30 minutes – simmering, pasta cooking, final touches

Total Time

45 minutes – perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner

Nutritional Information

FAQs About Pasta Fagioli

Is Pasta Fagioli the same as Minestrone?

No. Although both are Italian soups, Minestrone includes a variety of vegetables and sometimes meat, while Pasta Fagioli focuses primarily on beans and pasta with a tomato base.

Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?

Yes, but for best results:

Freeze without the pasta
Reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before serving
Use airtight containers and label with dates

What are the best beans to use?

The most authentic choices include:

Cannellini beans – white, creamy, mild
Borlotti beans – also called cranberry beans, nutty and colorful
Navy beans – small and soft

What pasta works best in this recipe?

Choose small, bite-sized pastas like:

Ditalini – traditional and widely used
Elbow macaroni – child-friendly and common
Small shells or orecchiette – hold sauce well

How can I store leftovers?

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed container. Add broth when reheating if needed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Here’s how:

Sauté aromatics first, then transfer to the slow cooker
Add broth, tomatoes, herbs, and beans
Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then stir in pasta during the last 30 minutes

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli is more than a soup—it’s an experience. Rooted in Italian tradition, it manages to deliver rich, satisfying flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter dinner, a meal-prep staple, or just a taste of Italy, this dish delivers every time.

We’ve explored every detail—from selecting quality ingredients to expert cooking tips and creative variations. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to create a Pasta Fagioli that’s restaurant-quality, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious.

Let the aroma of garlic and herbs fill your kitchen. Let every spoonful warm your heart. And most importantly, let this be a dish you come back to again and again.