Pasta Soup

This Pasta Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or meal prep for the week. Packed with hearty chicken, fresh spinach, and delightful mini farfalle, this soup is simple to make and sure to become a favorite. Its rich taste and satisfying ingredients make it ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With savory chicken and vibrant vegetables, every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand – it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies!
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta and protein makes this soup a satisfying meal on its own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the mini farfalle pasta, making it a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart pot: Essential for cooking larger portions of soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise measurements for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This Pasta Soup is packed with chicken, veggies, fresh spinach, and mini farfalle. It’s hearty, easy to make, and sure to be a family favorite!

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (3/4 cup diced carrots, 3/4 cup diced celery, 3/4 cup diced yellow onion)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 2 (32-ounce) cartons reduced-sodium chicken broth

Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups uncooked miniature farfalle pasta

For Serving:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped, lightly packed when measured)
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Crusty buttered bread (optional, for serving)

How to Make Pasta Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large 6-quart pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the ground chicken.
3. Cook undisturbed for about 1 minute per side until browned. Break it into crumbles while cooking until fully cooked through.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of grease from the pot.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Stir in the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
2. Add dried basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the soup to a boil.
2. Add uncooked mini farfalle pasta.
3. Cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes until pasta is tender while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

1. Return cooked chicken back into the pot.
2. Add coarsely chopped spinach and stir until wilted (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately in bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired and warm crusty buttered bread on the side. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta Soup

Serving Pasta Soup is an art that can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some creative suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top to add a burst of color and flavor.
• Chili Flakes: If you like it spicy, add a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Warm Buttered Bread: Serve slices of warm, buttered bread on the side for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance your meal by serving garlic bread, which complements the flavors perfectly.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken Strips: Top with grilled chicken strips for extra protein and texture.
• Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, add chickpeas for added heartiness and protein.

Cheese It Up

• Parmesan Cheese: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on their soup.
• Mozzarella Balls: Add mozzarella balls for a creamy texture and additional flavor.

How to Perfect Pasta Soup

Perfecting your Pasta Soup can elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always delightful.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked just right; it should be slightly firm to bite so it holds up in the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings Last: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking, as flavors can develop during simmering.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving can help meld flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the hearty soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a refreshing complement.
3. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your meal; simply toss with olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a filling side that pairs well with soup flavors.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: These cheesy delights are easy to make and perfect for dipping into your Pasta Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Soup can be simple and fun, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the veggies first enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; it adds depth to your soup.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the pot might lead to mushy noodles. Keep an eye on cooking times for perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasonings: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning can result in bland soup. Always check and tweak flavors at the end.
• Using low-quality broth: Using a poor-quality broth affects the overall taste of your soup. Choose a good quality or homemade broth for richness.
• Not storing properly: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Make sure to use airtight containers and label them with dates.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Pasta Soup, we’ve got answers!

Can I customize my Pasta Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or switch out pasta types based on your preference.

How do I make my Pasta Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, consider adding more vegetables or a cornstarch slurry as it cooks.

What type of pasta works best for Pasta Soup?

Mini farfalle is great, but you can also use small shells or ditalini for similar results.

Can I add protein other than sausage?

Yes! Chicken or turkey can be excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Pasta Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Pasta Soup

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This Pasta Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week. Made with tender ground chicken, vibrant vegetables, and delightful mini farfalle, each bowl offers a burst of flavor that warms the heart.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2–1/4 cups mirepoix (3/4 cup diced carrots, 3/4 cup diced celery, 3/4 cup diced yellow onion)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 2 (32-ounce) cartons reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups uncooked miniature farfalle pasta
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped, lightly packed when measured)

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Instructions

1. Heat a large 6-quart pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the ground chicken. Cook undisturbed for about 1 minute per side until browned. Break it into crumbles while cooking until fully cooked through. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.
2. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of grease from the pot. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Add dried basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
4. Bring the soup to a boil and add uncooked mini farfalle pasta. Cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes until pasta is tender while stirring occasionally.
5. Return cooked chicken back into the pot. Add coarsely chopped spinach and stir until wilted (about 1–2 minutes). Remove from heat; adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately in bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired and warm crusty buttered bread on the side. Enjoy!

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg