Name: Homemade Pasta e Fagioli – Cozy Italian Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice); Salt & pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of hearty, comforting soup that’s full of flavor, Pasta e Fagioli is the way to go. This classic Italian dish, meaning “pasta and beans,” is a simple yet satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. With tender beans, savory broth, and just the right amount of pasta, it’s like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little extra comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meal – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy.
Rich and hearty – Packed with beans, pasta, and a flavorful broth.
Budget-friendly – Made with simple pantry staples but full of flavor.

Ingredients

(A few highlights—full ingredient list below!)

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice)
Salt & pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Broth

Pour in the cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta and let it cook in the broth until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Cook pasta separately if storing leftovers – Otherwise, it will soak up the broth and get mushy.
Use fresh herbs if possible – They add an extra layer of freshness.
Want it thicker? – Mash some of the beans or blend a small portion of the soup.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Make it vegetarian – Use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions.
Add protein – Stir in cooked sausage or pancetta for extra heartiness.
Use different beans – Great Northern beans or chickpeas work too!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair this soup with warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. A glass of red wine also complements the dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth if needed.
Freeze before adding pasta—just cook fresh pasta when reheating.

FAQs

What does “Pasta e Fagioli” mean?
It translates to “pasta and beans,” which are the two main ingredients in this dish.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes! It’s the easiest option. Just rinse and drain them before adding.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook it separately and add it to individual bowls before serving.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6 hours, then add the pasta 20 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Pasta e Fagioli is the ultimate cozy, feel-good meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main dish, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat all year long. Give it a try and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Homemade Pasta e Fagioli – Cozy Italian Comfort Food

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian comfort dish that translates to “pasta and beans.” This hearty soup is made with tender beans, small pasta, and a rich, savory broth seasoned with aromatic herbs. It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a comforting, budget-friendly dish.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the Beans and Broth: Pour in the cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes to develop the flavors.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the ditalini pasta and let it cook in the broth until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

Cook pasta separately if storing leftovers to prevent it from absorbing all the broth.
Use fresh herbs for added freshness.
To thicken the soup, mash some of the beans or blend a small portion before serving.