Pasta Soup

This Pasta Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends and family, this dish promises comfort and satisfaction. With its rich flavors from the savory broth and tender pasta, it stands out as a delightful meal that brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with flavors and nutrients, this soup will fill you up without weighing you down.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding your favorite veggies or switching up the pasta shape.
• Family-Friendly: This Pasta Soup is sure to be loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Perfect Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your Pasta Soup, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart pot: Ideal for making soups as it provides ample space for ingredients to cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring an even mix of flavors.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accuracy in your ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

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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 Soup 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
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 2 (32-ounce) cartons reduced-sodium beef broth

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

Pasta & Greens

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

For Serving (Optional)

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty buttered bread

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.
3. Once shimmering, add the sausage. Let it cook undisturbed for about 1 minute per side until browned.
4. Break it into crumbles and continue cooking until deeply browned. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

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).
4. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook Pasta & Spinach

1. Bring the soup to a boil.
2. Add the uncooked farfalle pasta.
3. Cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes until pasta is tender while stirring often.
4. Return cooked sausage to the pot along with chopped spinach.
5. Cook until spinach wilts, about 1–2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your delicious Pasta Soup immediately with optional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and warm crusty buttered bread on the side! Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta Soup

Serving Pasta Soup can be as delightful as making it. Here are some creative ways to enhance your meal experience and make it even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Oregano: A dash of dried oregano can elevate the taste, aligning perfectly with Italian flavors.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for a rich, savory finish.
• Mozzarella: Add small balls of mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture that kids will love.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Buttered Bread: Serve with warm, buttered bread for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for an extra flavorful crunch that complements the soup well.

Topped with Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Garnish with additional fresh spinach for more nutrition and a vibrant touch.
• Arugula: A handful of arugula adds a peppery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Pasta Soup

Creating the perfect Pasta Soup involves attention to detail in both preparation and ingredient selection. Follow these tips for a stellar dish.

• Choose Quality Broth: Select a good-quality reduced-sodium beef broth as your base for better flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls when serving. This helps prevent overcooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking. You want it flavorful but not overpowering.
• Add Veggies Last: Incorporate delicate greens like spinach towards the end of cooking. They should wilt but retain their vibrant color and nutrients.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit off heat for a few minutes can deepen flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement this comforting dish.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs wonderfully with warm soup.
2. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make excellent companions for dipping into your soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides additional nutrition and flavor depth.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer heartiness alongside your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an exciting starter before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pasta soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always take the time to cook them until tender to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on it.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in a dull soup. Always sample your soup and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can negatively impact flavor. Opt for a good-quality reduced-sodium broth or make your own for better results.
• Not adding greens at the right time: Adding spinach too early can make it wilted and unappealing. Stir it in just before serving for a vibrant touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pasta soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta Soup

• Freeze pasta soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer for best quality.

Reheating Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Soup?

Pasta soup is a comforting dish made with broth, vegetables, and pasta. It’s hearty and can be customized with various ingredients based on personal preferences.

How do I make Pasta Soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of pasta soup, simply omit any meat such as sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta in this Pasta Soup?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for best results.

How do I store leftover Pasta Soup?

Leftover pasta soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.

What are some good toppings for Pasta Soup?

Consider topping your pasta soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs like parsley or basil, or even a dollop of pesto for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; it’s bound to become a new favorite!