Pasta Fagioli Soup, a classic Italian comfort food, is a perfect dish for colder months or whenever you crave a hearty and nutritious meal. With its rich tomato broth, tender beans, and al dente pasta, this soup brings together the flavors of Italy in one satisfying bowl. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a delicious Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup that rivals any restaurant’s version, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
What Makes Pasta Fagioli Soup So Special?
Pasta Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans,” is a beloved Italian dish that combines simple ingredients into a soul-warming soup. The base of the soup is typically a savory blend of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a variety of vegetables such as celery, onions, and carrots, with a handful of beans—cannellini beans being the most common. The pasta, often small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni, gives the soup its satisfying texture, while the seasoning blends like Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and dried parsley bring depth of flavor.
In this recipe, we’ve put together a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to creating a copycat version of this classic dish that’s both rich and flavorful.
Ingredients for Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup:
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 can of cannellini beans, with the liquid (provides rich texture and flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (adds richness to the broth)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (for depth of flavor)
- 2 tsp dried parsley (adds an herbaceous note)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs that brings authenticity)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a mild, spicy kick)
- 8 ounces of tomato sauce (creates the rich, savory base)
- 14 ½ ounces chicken broth (a flavorful liquid for the soup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked spinach pasta (a twist on the classic pasta choice)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
To start, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped celery and onion. Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the celery softens. This will take about 5 minutes. The sautéing process helps to release the natural sugars and flavors in the vegetables, setting a flavorful foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Simmer
Next, add the minced garlic, dried parsley, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The heat will release the essential oils in the seasonings, infusing the soup with an aromatic base.
After the seasonings are well-mixed with the vegetables, pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and chopped tomatoes. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for 15 minutes, which will help the flavors meld together, creating a rich and savory broth.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Beans
Once the broth has simmered for a while and the flavors have blended, it’s time to add the uncooked spinach pasta. Stir the pasta into the soup and cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite). It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften slightly after you remove it from the heat.
Now, open the can of cannellini beans (do not drain them). Add the beans with their liquid to the soup. Stir the mixture well to combine, and let it heat through for another 5 minutes. The beans will not only add texture but will also thicken the broth slightly, making it even more satisfying.
Step 4: Finish the Soup and Serve
Once your soup is ready, give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. For an added touch of richness, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the soup before serving. The Parmesan adds a creamy, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Pasta Fagioli Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or breadsticks, perfect for dipping into the savory broth. If you prefer, you can also serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the soup.
Step 5: Tips for Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Cook Pasta Separately: If you’re making a large batch and plan to have leftovers, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy in the leftovers and keeps the texture perfect.
- Substitute for Spinach Pasta: If you can’t find spinach pasta, you can substitute with any small pasta, such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or farfalle. The key is to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t get overcooked.
- Make It Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can easily swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. This will keep the soup flavorful without the meat-based stock.
- Refrigeration & Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two. If the soup becomes too thick in the fridge, simply add a little more broth or water when reheating.
- Freezing Pasta Fagioli Soup: If you want to freeze the soup, be sure to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the pasta. Pasta tends to absorb the liquid when frozen, so it’s better to store them separately and combine them when reheating.
Why Pasta Fagioli Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Pasta Fagioli Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s both nutritious and filling, thanks to the combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta. The heartiness of the beans and the savory richness of the broth make it an ideal meal for a cold evening or when you’re in need of something warm and satisfying.
Additionally, this soup is high in fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. The versatility of the dish means you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe for any busy home cook.
Conclusion
Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian recipe that’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to impress. With its flavorful broth, tender beans, and satisfying pasta, it’s a dish that brings comfort in every spoonful.
By following the simple steps in this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate this comforting soup and enjoy the authentic taste of Italy right at home.