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Traditional Italian pasta fagioli with beans, pasta, and sausage

Traditional Pasta Fagioli (Italian Pasta and Beans)

This traditional italian pasta fagioli recipe is a hearty, rustic soup made with Italian sausage, tender beans, small pasta, and a rich tomato-based broth. Inspired by classic Italian-American home cooking, this comforting pasta and beans soup is simple, filling, and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven: for cooking the soup evenly and holding all ingredients
  • Wooden spoon: for stirring and breaking up the sausage
  • Knife and Cutting Board for chopping vegetables
  • Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned and fully cooked. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add olive oil, onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Add the grated garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the cooked sausage, kale, cannellini beans, kidney beans, Italian seasoning, and pasta. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente.
  6. Finish the soup with red wine vinegar, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Video

Notes

  • Pasta fagioli is traditionally a thick, hearty soup. If the soup thickens as it sits, add additional broth or water when reheating.
  • The red wine vinegar added at the end brightens the soup and balances the richness of the beans and sausage, a classic Italian finishing technique.
  • Ditalini is the most traditional pasta choice, but tubetti or small shells also work well.
  • For a more rustic texture, lightly mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings): 420 calories, 20g fat, 38g carbs, 23g protein, 7g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.