Introduction
Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a warm, hearty soup that delivers deep comfort in every spoonful. This rustic Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta, creamy beans, savory sausage, and a rich tomato broth into a meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying. I often make this recipe when the weather turns cool or when I want a one-pot dinner that feeds everyone generously without much fuss. The addition of sausage adds bold flavor and richness, elevating traditional pasta fagioli into something even more comforting. What I love most about this dish is how well the flavors develop as it simmers, making it even better the next day. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or prepared ahead for meal prep, Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a dependable, soul-warming recipe that never disappoints.
Print
Pasta Fagioli with Sausage – Hearty, Comforting Italian Classic
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a hearty, comforting Italian-style soup made with savory sausage, tender pasta, beans, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs—a warm, filling meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese if using.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition.
- Use chicken sausage for a lighter dish.
- If soup thickens too much, add extra broth.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is filling, flavorful, and made in one pot. It combines protein, vegetables, and pasta into a balanced meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Italian sausage
Italian sausage adds rich, savory flavor and depth to the soup.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds richness.
Onion
Onion builds the flavor base and adds sweetness.
Carrots
Carrots add subtle sweetness and color.
Celery
Celery provides aroma and balance.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the soup with savory warmth.
Crushed tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes form the hearty, flavorful broth.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth adds depth and body to the soup.
Cannellini beans
Beans add creaminess, protein, and classic pasta fagioli texture.
Ditalini pasta
Small pasta shapes work best for soaking up the broth.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning ties all the flavors together.
Salt
Salt enhances the overall taste.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth.
Red pepper flakes
Red pepper flakes add optional heat.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color at the end.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a savory finishing touch when serving.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove excess grease if needed.
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the cannellini beans and allow the soup to simmer to develop flavor. Add the pasta and cook until just tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 35 to 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
Variations and Customizations
Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is easy to customize. You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens. Swap cannellini beans for kidney or great northern beans. For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth with added herbs.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is high in protein and fiber and contains gluten. It can be adapted using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free toppings. Nutritional values vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook Pasta Separately for Meal Prep
This prevents it from absorbing too much broth.
Simmer Gently
Low simmering develops deeper flavor.
Finish with Cheese
Parmesan adds richness and balance.
FAQs
Is pasta fagioli thick or soupy?
It is hearty and slightly thick, not watery.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
What sausage works best?
Italian sausage, mild or spicy, works well.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze without pasta for best texture.
What pasta shape is best?
Small shapes like ditalini are ideal.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, use hot sausage or more red pepper flakes.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, use mild sausage.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, zucchini or spinach work well.
Does it need cheese?
No, but Parmesan enhances flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily.
Conclusion
Pasta Fagioli with Sausage is a comforting, hearty soup that brings together classic Italian flavors in one satisfying bowl. Easy to prepare, rich in flavor, and perfect for leftovers, this recipe is a timeless favorite that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!