Best Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Name: Best Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup ditalini pasta; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:35:37.928Z

This Best Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with rich flavors
Perfectly seasoned broth that warms your soul
Easy to make and great for meal prep

      

A Classic Italian Comfort Food

Pasta Fagioli is a beloved Italian dish that has warmed the hearts of families for generations. This comforting soup combines pasta and beans in a savory broth, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or when you're craving a hearty meal. The beauty of Pasta Fagioli lies in its simplicity; it uses pantry staples, making it accessible for everyone to recreate at home.

Traditionally, Pasta Fagioli is made with beans, pasta, and a rich broth flavored with herbs and spices. Each region of Italy has its own variation, but the essence remains the same: a deliciously satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of Italian cooking. This recipe captures that essence while being easy enough for busy weeknights.

Meal Prep Friendly

One of the best features of this Pasta Fagioli recipe is its meal prep potential. The dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for later use. Preparing a large batch means you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it. Simply reheat and enjoy the rich flavors without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time.

To make your meal prep even easier, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual portions as needed. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and allows you to enjoy the perfect texture every time you serve it. A simple adjustment can elevate your meal prep game!

Versatile and Customizable

Pasta Fagioli is incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to swap out the ditalini pasta for any small pasta shape you have on hand, or add seasonal vegetables to enhance the nutritional value. Spinach, kale, or zucchini make excellent additions, providing extra flavor and texture.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier version. Vegetarians can keep it simple with additional beans or lentils. The options are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours while still enjoying the traditional flavors.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients

1 cup ditalini pasta
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare all ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Pasta Fagioli.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and cannellini beans. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until pasta is cooked al dente.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Pasta Fagioli with a slice of crusty bread!

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your Pasta Fagioli, use high-quality vegetable broth. A rich broth enhances the overall taste of the dish and makes every spoonful more satisfying. If you have homemade broth, now is the perfect time to use it!

Don’t forget to season your broth well! The balance of salt and pepper is crucial, so taste as you go. If you prefer a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This little tweak can elevate the dish and give it that extra zing!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Pasta Fagioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the pasta, as it tends to become mushy upon thawing. Instead, cook fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy your leftovers.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge. Heat gently on the stove until warmed through for the best texture and flavor. This dish tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta Fagioli is perfect as a stand-alone meal, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced dinner. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful creaminess that complements the savory broth.

For an Italian twist, serve with a side of bruschetta or garlic knots. These accompaniments not only add to the enjoyment but also create a lovely dining experience that celebrates the heartiness of Italian cuisine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with kidney beans or any beans of your choice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth.

→ Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.