Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup

why make this recipe

Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup is a comforting, budget-friendly one-pot meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s hearty enough to satisfy on chilly nights, light enough for a simple weeknight dinner, and uses pantry staples — pasta, canned beans, and tomatoes — so you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

introduction

This version combines ditalini pasta with creamy cannellini beans in a tomato- and herb-scented vegetable broth. Aromatics (onion, carrot, celery, garlic) build a classic base, while oregano and basil give a familiar Italian touch. The soup is flexible: make it vegetarian, add greens, or toss in cooked sausage for extra protein. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan for added richness.

how to make Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup

Follow a simple sauté — simmer — cook sequence. First soften the mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery) in olive oil to release sweetness, then add garlic briefly. Add tomatoes, beans, broth, and dried herbs, bring to a boil, then stir in the ditalini and cook until al dente. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot with optional Parmesan.

Ingredients :

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions :

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until they are softened, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente.
5. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

how to serve Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors just before serving.

how to store Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Because pasta can absorb liquid and soften over time, store soup and any leftover cooked pasta separately if you plan to keep it longer. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without added pasta) for up to 2–3 months; thaw, reheat, and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

tips to make Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup

• Use al dente pasta: slightly undercook if you plan to reheat so it doesn’t turn mushy.
• Adjust thickness: add more broth for a looser soup or let it simmer uncovered to concentrate flavors.
• Boost flavor: sauté a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for heat, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for brightness.
• Add greens: stir in chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
• Protein options: fold in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or pancetta for a non-vegetarian version.

variation (if any)

• Pasta e Fagioli style: use smaller pasta shapes and a thicker, more tomato-forward broth; finish with a spoonful of mashed beans for creaminess.
• Minestrone-style: add zucchini, potatoes, or green beans for a chunkier vegetable-forward soup.
• Creamy version: stir in a half cup of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving for a richer texture.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes — small shapes like elbow, small shells, or orzo work well. Adjust cooking time to the package instructions.

Q: Do I have to rinse the beans?
A: Rinsing reduces excess sodium and removes canning liquid; it’s recommended.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Sauté the vegetables first, then add everything except the pasta and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta just before serving.

Q: How do I reheat without overcooking the pasta?
A: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water; consider adding fresh cooked pasta to retain texture.

Conclusion

If you love hearty Italian-style soups, this Ultimate Pasta and Beans Soup is an easy, adaptable weeknight solution. For another trusted take on a classic pasta-and-beans recipe, see Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Better than Olive Garden’s).