Cozy Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and absolutely filling, this Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup recipe is your new best friend. This classic Italian dish blends tender pasta with creamy plant-based cheese, hearty beans, and smoky smoked turkey bacon in a savory vegetable broth. It’s a true celebration of flavors and textures that will wrap you up in cozy happiness with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup combines pasta and beans to create a satisfying meal that leaves you comfortably full.
• Rich Flavors: The smoky smoked turkey bacon and savory vegetable broth enhance every bite with deep, layered taste.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for chilly days, it warms you up while feeling like a homemade hug.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and plant-based cheese, this soup is both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup is simple, yet each item plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and color. Fresh vegetables, smoky smoked turkey bacon, hearty cannellini beans, and creamy plant-based cheese come together to create a luscious experience.

• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a savory, smoky flavor that infuses the broth beautifully.
• Onion and Garlic: The aromatic duo sets a foundational flavor for the soup’s base.
• Carrots and Celery: Provide a subtle sweetness and satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Cannellini Beans: Creamy white beans give a smooth texture and add protein.
• Ditalini Pasta: Small pasta shapes soak up the broth perfectly without overpowering the dish.
• Tomato Paste: Brings a rich depth and brightness to the broth’s character.
• Vegetable Broth: The soul of the soup, creating a warm and full-bodied base.
• Smoked Turkey Slices: For added savory layers and texture contrast.
• Fresh Rosemary: Infuses the soup with vibrant herbaceous notes.
• Plant-Based Cheese: Adds creamy richness and a comforting finish.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (Natural): Balances flavors with a touch of acidity and brightness.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Provides a slight thickening, enhancing the mouthfeel of the broth.

Variations for Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Feel free to play around with this Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup to suit your taste or pantry staples. It’s incredibly easy to adapt and remains delicious no matter what you add or swap out.

• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a warming kick.
• Greens Boost: Stir in chopped kale or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Grain Swap: Replace ditalini pasta with small whole-grain pasta or brown rice for a different texture.
• Mushroom Flavor: Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich upgrade.
• Smoked Turkey Addition: Toss in extra smoked turkey slices for more protein and smoky appeal.

How to Make Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp. Then toss in diced onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened and fragrant, allowing those flavors to mingle and build a savory foundation.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen its flavors. Pour in vegetable broth along with apple cider vinegar (natural), adding fresh rosemary sprigs for an herbal touch. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, making sure the base flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Beans and Pasta

Drain and rinse the cannellini beans, then stir them into the pot. Add ditalini pasta and cook until it’s al dente. The beans’ creamy texture combines with tender pasta to create the comforting heart of the soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Smoked Turkey Slices and Plant-Based Cheese

Stir in chopped smoked turkey slices and a handful of shredded plant-based cheese. This enriches the soup’s savory depth and adds a luscious creaminess that makes each spoonful satisfying.

Step 5: Finish with a Natural Gelling Agent

Mix in a small amount of natural gelling agent to slightly thicken the broth, enhancing its body and texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot and steamy.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for rich vegetable broth to ensure a delicious base full of flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a less starchy broth, boil pasta separately and add just before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh rosemary and other herbs to brighten and lift the soup’s taste.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep pasta slightly firm to avoid mushiness after reheating.
• Adjust Acidity: Add apple cider vinegar (natural) gradually to perfectly balance the flavors.

How to Serve Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to elevate each bowl with a touch of freshness and vibrancy.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a warm, crusty bread loaf or toasted garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth and add a delightful crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, ladle the soup into small, rustic bowls or hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the soup directly inside for a festive, edible bowl experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify beautifully overnight, making next-day servings even better.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. For best texture, cook the pasta separately and add it to reheated soup after defrosting to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta instead of ditalini and ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free for a safe and delicious alternative.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply skip the smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices, and replace the plant-based cheese with your favorite vegan-friendly option to keep it hearty and tasty.

How long does Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the soup stays fresh for up to 3 days with flavors becoming even more developed.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

You can! Sauté the smoked turkey bacon and veggies first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding pasta at the last 30 minutes.

What’s the best way to thicken this soup?

Incorporate a small amount of natural gelling agent for gentle thickening without overpowering the soup’s natural texture and flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a timeless bowl of goodness that feels like home with every spoon. Whether it’s a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress friends and family, this recipe guarantees warmth, flavor, and satisfaction. Dive in and see how easy it is to create your own cozy masterpiece!

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