Pasta fagioli is a classic Italian soup that feels warm and comforting. It is simple, hearty and full of flavor.
Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, has a famous version of this soup. It is creamy, rich and very satisfying.
This Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. It is also great for leftovers, because it tastes even better the next day. If you love Italian food, this soup is a must-try.
My Experience With This Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli
I first made this pasta fagioli on a chilly night. The smell filled the kitchen quickly. The soup was creamy and delicious.
My family loved the taste and asked for more. The best part is that it is easy to make. You do not need fancy ingredients. It is a great meal for busy days.
I also like that it warms you up instantly. This recipe has become one of my go-to comfort foods.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: Italian
- Calories: 360 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender
Ingredients You Need for Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft.
Add Garlic
Add garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Add diced tomatoes, oregano and basil. Stir well.
Add Beans and Broth
Add cannellini beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Blend Half the Soup
Blend half the soup for creaminess. Leave some beans whole.
Add Pasta
Add pasta and cook until tender.
Add Cream
Stir in heavy cream and heat gently.
Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Garnish and Serve
Serve hot with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips to Make the Best Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Use fresh vegetables for better flavor.
- Blend only half the soup for a creamy texture.
- Cook pasta separately if you want leftovers.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking pasta makes it mushy.
- Blending all the soup makes it too thick.
- Adding cream to boiling soup can curdle it.
- Not tasting before serving can leave it bland.
- Using old pasta can change the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta fagioli is best served hot with crusty bread. A side salad also pairs well. You can add grated Parmesan on top. It makes the soup even richer.
This dish is perfect for family dinners and cold nights. It is also a great meal to share with friends.
Variations You Can Try
- Add cooked sausage for extra flavor.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Use cannellini or navy beans.
- Add lemon zest for a fresh taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Add a splash of broth if it gets too thick. Pasta can soak up liquid, so add more broth as needed. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
Health Benefits
This soup is full of fiber and protein. Beans help with digestion and keep you full. Vegetables add vitamins and minerals.
Chicken broth gives a warm, soothing base. It is a healthy and balanced meal. It is also great for weight management because it fills you up.
Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta like ditalini
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Heat the Oil
- Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft.
Add Garlic
- Add garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Herbs
- Add diced tomatoes, oregano and basil. Stir well.
Add Beans and Broth
- Add cannellini beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Soup
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Blend Half the Soup
- Blend half the soup for creaminess. Leave some beans whole.
Add Pasta
- Add pasta and cook until tender.
Add Cream
- Stir in heavy cream and heat gently.
Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Garnish and Serve
- Serve hot with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for better flavor.
- Blend only half the soup for a creamy texture.
- Cook pasta separately if you want leftovers.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
FAQs about Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth and skip the cream. Add more beans and vegetables.
2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but cook them first. Dried beans need longer cooking time.
3. Can I freeze pasta fagioli?
Yes, but pasta may get soft. Freeze without pasta for best texture.
4. Can I use different pasta?
Yes, small pasta like elbow or shells works well.
5. How do I make it creamier?
Blend half the soup and add cream. This makes it smooth and rich.
Final Thoughts
Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting and easy soup. It is perfect for cold days and family dinners.
The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite. It is also simple to make and easy to customize.
Try this recipe, and you will love how warm and cozy it feels. This soup will become a new go-to meal in your home.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!