Pasta Soup

This Pasta Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or in need of a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this recipe has you covered. With its rich broth, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Pasta Soup can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a satisfying meal that will keep everyone full.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap out the vegetables or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand for added versatility.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, so make extra for easy lunches!
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The combination of savory broth and soft pasta makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this Pasta Soup easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart pot: Ideal for making soups as it holds ample ingredients without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Pasta Soup is packed with Italian sausage, veggies, fresh spinach, and mini farfalle. It’s hearty, easy to make, and sure to be a family favorite!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (3/4 cup diced carrots, 3/4 cup diced celery, 3/4 cup diced yellow onion)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For the Broth

• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 2 (32-ounce) cartons reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

For the Soup

• 2 cups uncooked miniature farfalle pasta
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped, lightly packed when measured)

Optional Toppings

• freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Crusty buttered bread (optional, for serving)

How to Make Pasta Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large 6-quart pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the sausage.
3. Cook undisturbed for about 1 minute per side until browned. Break into crumbles as it cooks.
4. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of grease from the pot.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Stir in the mirepoix mixture (carrots, celery, onion) and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth along with dried basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the soup to a boil.
2. Add uncooked miniature farfalle pasta; cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes or until tender.
3. Return cooked sausage to the pot along with chopped spinach; cook just until spinach wilts (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from heat; adjust salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve immediately with optional Parmesan cheese and warm crusty buttered bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Pasta Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Soup

Serving Pasta Soup can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these suggestions will help you create a delightful meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil and Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the soup for a burst of flavor and color.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an added richness.

With Crusty Bread

• Buttered Bread: Serve with warm, crusty buttered bread for dipping. It complements the soup beautifully.

With Extra Spinach

• Spinach Garnish: Add extra fresh spinach leaves on top to enhance nutrition and presentation.

With Lemon Wedges

• Citrus Twist: Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon gives a refreshing kick to the soup.

With Avocado Slices

• Creamy Addition: Add slices of avocado for a creamy texture that pairs well with the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Pasta Soup

To make your Pasta Soup even better, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavors: Always taste and adjust seasonings. A pinch more salt or spice can transform your dish.
• Quality Broth: Use high-quality broth for richer flavor. Homemade broth is ideal if you have the time.
• Pasta Timing: Add pasta near the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible for vibrant taste and nutrition.
• Proper Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with various garnishes like red pepper flakes or croutons for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Soup

Pairing your Pasta Soup with the right side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to warm soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light, flavorful side.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and nutrition while complementing the soup’s flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, beans, and spices make a hearty addition alongside your soup.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas are quick to prepare and offer a fun twist that kids love.
7. Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and pesto adds freshness and flavor that pairs well with Pasta Soup.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic grilled cheese is always a hit and perfect for dipping into the delicious broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta Soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can diminish your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Sauté: Failing to sauté the vegetables before adding them can lead to a bland soup. Always cook your mirepoix until tender for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you let the pasta cook too long, it could become mushy. Check for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions recommend.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can make your soup flat. Always taste and tweak with salt, pepper, or herbs towards the end.
• Using Cold Broth: Adding cold broth can drop the soup’s temperature significantly. Warm your broth before adding it to maintain a steady simmer.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Neglecting fresh herbs or spinach at the end can reduce freshness in flavor. Add delicate greens just before serving for vibrancy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers for long-term storage.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months; however, pasta may become softer upon reheating.

Reheating Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Pasta Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different pasta shapes for this Pasta Soup?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or elbow macaroni if farfalle is unavailable.

How do I make this Pasta Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken or beef broth with vegetable broth and omit meat altogether.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

You can use frozen spinach instead. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the soup.

How can I customize my Pasta Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even beans for different flavors and textures!

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting recipe!