Name: Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped; 1.5 cups cannellini beans (canned, drained and rinsed or cooked); 1 cup small pasta shapes (ditalini, small shells, or gluten-free pasta); 1/4 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), crumbled or shredded; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup crushed tomatoes (natural); 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural); Diced zucchini, carrots, or kale for added vegetables; Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy kick; Cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein; Additional fresh herbs such as thyme or basil

Cozy up your dinner table with a bowl of Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup, a hearty and comforting classic that perfectly blends tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory smoked turkey bacon. This satisfying soup uses fresh herbs and plant-based cheese (plant-based) to create layers of flavor that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight meal or something to share with loved ones, this soup recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: The blend of creamy beans and pasta creates a rich, soothing texture that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
Smoky Flavor Twist: Smoked turkey bacon adds a delectable depth without overpowering the fresh herbs and vegetables.
Plant-Based Cheese Delight: The addition of plant-based cheese adds creaminess while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
Fresh Herb Boost: Parsley and rosemary brighten the soup, balancing the savory notes with fresh, natural flavor.
Easy to Customize: This soup easily adapts to whatever you have on hand, perfect for creative cooks and busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup is simple but essential, working together to create a harmonious dish with perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the creamy cannellini beans to the vibrant fresh herbs, each component plays a star role.

Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a rich, smoky savoriness that deepens the soup’s flavor profile.
Cannellini Beans: Provide a creamy texture and earthy taste that makes the soup so hearty.
Small Pasta Shapes: Traditionally ditalini or small shells, for perfect bite-sized pasta that holds onto the broth.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Rosemary): Give bright, aromatic notes and elevate the overall flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Acts as a flavorful and light base for the entire soup.
Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that bring warmth and depth.
Crushed Tomatoes (natural): Add a subtle sweetness and nice tint to the broth.
Plant-Based Cheese (plant-based): For creamy richness without heaviness.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Enhances umami without overpowering.
Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Adds a touch of bright acidity to balance the flavors.

Variations for Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

This Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup is incredibly versatile, making it easy to tweak depending on your ingredient stash, dietary choices, or flavor cravings. Don’t hesitate to try these mouthwatering variations to suit your mood.

Vegetable-Packed: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or kale for added nutrients and color.
Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a gentle heat.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free shapes for a friendly twist.
Extra Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils to boost the plant-based protein content.
Herb Variations: Swap parsley or rosemary for thyme or basil to change the aromatic profile.

How to Make Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by cooking the smoked turkey bacon in a large pot until crispy, then remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings. Sauté chopped onions and garlic in the drippings until translucent and fragrant, creating a strong aromatic foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Add vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and fresh rosemary to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 10 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Add Beans and Pasta

Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta, cooking until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the broth level and add water or more broth as needed to ensure the perfect soup consistency.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and fold in freshly chopped parsley and crumbled smoked turkey bacon to maintain their vibrant flavors and textures. Stir in the plant-based cheese (plant-based) to add a final layer of creamy indulgence.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Use Small Pasta Shapes: Ditalini or small shells work best to hold the broth in each bite.
Simmer Gently: Avoid rapid boiling after adding pasta to prevent it from overcooking and breaking down.
Add Herbs Late: Fresh herbs are best stirred in post-cooking to keep their bright fragrance alive.
Adjust Thickness: Customize the soup’s consistency by adding more broth if you like it thinner or simmer longer to thicken.
Save Bacon Crumbles: Keep some crispy smoked turkey bacon bits for garnish to add delightful texture contrast.

How to Serve Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Garnishes

Crispy smoked turkey bacon crumbles, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a light drizzle of olive oil bring a fresh and delicious finish to this comforting soup.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping and complements the hearty flavors of the Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls topped with plant-based cheese (plant-based) shavings and fresh herb sprigs for an inviting and elegant presentation that feels like a cozy Italian trattoria visit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup freezes well. Use freezer-safe containers and expect a 2-3 month shelf life. It’s best to add fresh herbs and plant-based cheese (plant-based) after reheating to keep textures vibrant.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the smoked turkey bacon or replace it with a smoky plant-based bacon alternative, and skip or use plant-based cheese (plant-based).

What pasta works best in this soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni are ideal as they hold the flavorful broth well without overpowering the other ingredients.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned cannellini beans work wonderfully and save cooking time. Just drain and rinse before adding them to the soup.

How long can I store the soup in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup keeps well for up to four days, with flavors improving as it rests.

Is this soup gluten-free?

By using gluten-free pasta, the soup becomes perfect for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy satisfaction of Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup to brighten your day and warm your soul. With its perfect blend of smoky turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and creamy beans, this easy recipe invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Give it a try and watch how it becomes your weeknight dinner staple, bringing comfort and joy in every spoonful.

Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Author: Michael
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based Option

Print Recipe

Description

Cozy up your dinner table with a bowl of Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup, a hearty and comforting classic that blends tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory smoked turkey bacon. Enhanced with fresh herbs and plant-based cheese, this soup offers layers of flavor that warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a simple weeknight meal or sharing with loved ones, this recipe quickly becomes a go-to favorite.

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Cook the chopped smoked turkey bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the drippings and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Build the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and add the fresh chopped rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Add Beans and Pasta: Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta shapes. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes depending on pasta type. Monitor the broth and add additional water or vegetable broth as needed to maintain desired soup consistency.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the pot from heat. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley and the reserved crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces. Stir in the plant-based cheese (plant-based) to add creaminess. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra crispy smoked turkey bacon crumbles, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells that hold broth well.
Simmer gently after adding pasta to avoid overcooking and breakage.
Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their bright aroma.
Adjust soup thickness by adding more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer to thicken.
Save some crispy smoked turkey bacon bits for garnish to add texture contrast.
This soup can be made vegan by omitting smoked turkey bacon or substituting with smoky plant-based bacon.
Gluten-free pasta works well to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets.
Canned cannellini beans can be used to reduce preparation time just rinse before adding.
Leftovers taste even better the next day after flavors have melded.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian