Warm up with my Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup! This comforting Italian classic is perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a bowl on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl, making it ideal for cozy nights in or family dinners.
- Quick Preparation: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time!
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of vegetables, beans, and spices creates a rich flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or legumes for a personal touch.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with fiber and protein, this soup is not only satisfying but also good for you.
Tools and Preparation
To make Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all the ingredients evenly without crowding.
- Sharp knife: Having a sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth (1.4 liters)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (425g)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (411g)
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
Pasta & Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape) (about 50g)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients
Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 4: Add Pasta
Stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Season & Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before ladling into bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Serving Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing the warm, comforting flavors of this Italian classic. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked or toasted artisan bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the hearty soup.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the soup.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
- A dash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Include Grated Cheese on Top
- Offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to customize their soup experience with a cheesy finish.
Offer a Selection of Hot Sauces
- Providing various hot sauces gives those who enjoy spice a chance to add some heat to their bowl.
How to Perfect Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Perfecting Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure every bowl is delicious and satisfying.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a significant difference in flavor.
- Simmer Longer – Letting the soup simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cook Pasta Separately – For a better texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving; this prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Season Gradually – Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper; this helps achieve your desired flavor without over-seasoning.
- Customize Your Beans – Feel free to mix different types of beans for added texture and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Complementing Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy and buttery garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment that pairs well with soup.
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and richness, thanks to its creamy dressing and croutons.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness alongside your hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and pair beautifully with the soup’s flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms can be a delightful appetizer that complements the heartiness of the soup.
- Cheesy Quesadillas – Simple cheese quesadillas provide gooey goodness that kids and adults alike will enjoy alongside their soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup even better.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly can lead to bland flavors. Always cook onions, carrots, and celery until softened to enhance taste.
- Not Rinsing Beans: Using beans straight from the can without rinsing can add excess sodium. Rinse cannellini beans thoroughly to improve flavor and health.
- Overcooking Pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Add ditalini pasta during the last part of cooking for the perfect texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Not adjusting seasoning may leave your soup flat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for a balanced flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Use high-quality chicken broth for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space in containers for expansion when freezing.
Reheating Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help you understand this delicious recipe better.
Can I use different types of pasta in Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Yes! You can substitute any small pasta shape like macaroni or shells for ditalini based on your preference.
How do I make Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
Can I add more vegetables to Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
How spicy is Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?
The level of spiciness depends on the red pepper flakes. Omit them for a milder taste or adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I make Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better after resting for a day as flavors meld. Just store leftovers properly.
Final Thoughts
Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta!
Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup
Warm up with Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, a comforting Italian classic that’s perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings. This nourishing dish is packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables and beans, delivering a delightful flavor in every bowl. Quick to prepare, this soup can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Enjoy it on its own or alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup ditalini pasta
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery until softened (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in rinsed cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if desired. Bring to a simmer.
- Lower heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in fresh parsley before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg