This easy pasta fagioli soup recipe is a hearty Italian-inspired favorite made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and lots of flavor. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal the whole family will love.

I started making this pasta fagioli soup years ago when my daughters were little. I was always looking for ways to get a few more vegetables into their meals, and this soup quickly became one of my favorite ways to do it.

It’s packed with so much good stuff, comes together with simple ingredients, and makes a delicious, hearty dinner that everyone enjoys. And the best part? All these years later, my daughters still ask me to make it for them!

I especially love making a big pot when we’re all together because it’s one of those recipes that brings everyone back to the kitchen. And when I have fresh herbs from the garden, I’ll use those too.

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful soup that will become a regular part of your dinner rotation, this pasta fagioli is one to try.

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best recipe for pasta fagioli with toppings of parmesan, basil and parsley

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli Soup

I’ve been making and tweaking this pasta fagioli soup for years, drawing inspiration from my grandmother’s cooking and a few techniques I picked up from America’s Test Kitchen. Over time, I’ve made it my own, and it’s become one of my family’s favorite meals.

The secret to its rich, savory flavor? Two ingredients you might not expect: anchovies and a Parmesan cheese rind. They add incredible depth to the broth without overpowering the other ingredients. Trust me, they make such a difference!

Ingredients

The list of ingredients sounds like a big list to make this recipe for pasta fagioli but as you make it, it’s pretty easy to do and will become second nature as you make it.

Onion
Celery
Extra virgin olive oil
Bacon
Garlic
Cannellini beans
Chicken or vegetable stock
Diced tomatoes
Parmesan cheese rind
Parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes
Oregano
Fresh parsley
Ditalini or small pasta

I prefer freshly grated Parmesan cheese for its superior flavor, but feel free to use whatever you have. I often freeze leftover Parmesan rinds to add a rich, cheesy depth to soups like this one.

While basil is a common addition to Pasta Fagioli, I love the bright, fresh flavor of parsley. Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in this recipe. I add the parsley just before serving to preserve its vibrancy. Feel free to substitute fresh basil if you prefer. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs will work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant.

I typically use my Dutch oven for this recipe, but a stockpot works just as well. Use what you have and enjoy!

Adding extra virgin olive oil to dutch oven to make soup

pasta fagioli in the dutch oven after adding fresh parsley

Pasta Fagioli Soup Instructions

In a Dutch oven or stock pot, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
When the oil heats, add the bacon and cook through for about 5 minutes.
Next, add the onions and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
Add the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and cook until the garlic releases its odor (about 30 seconds to one minute).
Immediately add the diced tomatoes and scrape the sides to get the bacon bits off.
Next, add the beans and cheese rind, mix well, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Then add the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions.
Remove from heat and take out the rind. Add fresh parmesan to brighten the soup.
Drizzle each bowl with extra virgin olive oil and fresh parmesan shavings. Then garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve and enjoy!

close up of the best recipe for pasta fagioli in mustard color bowl with spoon

Pasta Fagioli Prep Ahead Tips

To prepare this ahead of time, make the soup completely but leave out the pasta until you’re ready to serve. Adding the pasta too early will result in mushy pasta as it absorbs the broth. If you prefer to make the soup earlier in the day, you can let it simmer on the stove to allow the flavors to meld, then simply reheat and add the pasta when you’re ready to eat.

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad for a touch of freshness. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil are always welcome additions.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Pasta Fagioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing and Thawing

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as instructed above.

A warm bowl of pasta fazool with a spoon rests in a brown ceramic mug. The soup is garnished with chopped herbs and grated cheese. Surrounding the bowl are two small glass dishes, one with fresh chopped herbs and the other with shaved cheese. A knitted blanket is in the background.

Final Thoughts on Making Pasta Fagioli Soup

One of my favorite times to make this pasta fagioli soup is when my vegetable garden is still producing fresh herbs and vegetables. There’s something so satisfying about heading outside, gathering a few ingredients from the garden, and turning them into a delicious, hearty meal for my family.

I’ve been making this soup since my daughters were little, and I love that it’s still one of the meals they ask for today. It’s simple, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy those fresh garden harvests while they’re still coming in.

And even after the growing season ends, this is one of those comforting recipes I keep making all winter long with ingredients I already have on hand.

If you enjoy cooking with fresh ingredients, check out my beginner’s guide to vegetable gardening and herb gardening tips for more inspiration on growing your own food.

Have you tried making pasta fagioli soup? I’d love to hear how you make yours in the comments below!

Thank you so much for following along.

Enjoy a beautiful day! xo

Easy Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Stacy Ling

Make this easy pasta fagioli soup with pasta, beans, vegetables, and Italian flavors. A hearty family favorite that's perfect for dinner.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Soup

Cuisine Italian

Servings Servings

Calories 436 kcal