Pasta and Beans Soup
A comforting Italian-inspired soup that combines pasta, cannellini beans, and flavorful broth, perfect for chilly evenings.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) Juicy, flavorful sausage that adds depth to the broth.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Aromatic and rich; enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1 small onion, diced Sweet and slightly pungent; the aromatic base of the soup.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped Crisp and slightly sweet; they add texture and nutrition.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Refreshing and crunchy; they complement the other vegetables.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and rich; infuses the soup with a savory aroma.
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes Juicy and tangy; they lend brightness and acidity to the dish.
- 1 15 oz can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Creamy and soft, these beans add protein and heartiness.
- 6 cups chicken broth Rich and savory; the foundation of the soup's flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that perks up the entire dish.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.
- 1 cup ditalini pasta or small shell pasta Little pasta shapes that soak up the delicious broth.
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Bright and fresh, adding a lovely pop of color.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Break it up as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove any excess grease if necessary for a leaner soup.
- Toss in the diced onion, chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Cooking
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serving
- After the soup has simmered, stir in the cooked pasta and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.
Notes
Feel free to customize the sausage and include other vegetables or toppings like grated Parmesan cheese or herbs for added depth of flavor. The soup is freezer-friendly and can be stored in airtight containers.