Quick and Easy Pasta Soup

This Quick and Easy Pasta Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any time of the year. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, vegetables, and broth, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, wholesome meal to warm you up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need already in your pantry and fridge.
• Quick to Make: This pasta soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it great for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the hearty flavors and comforting texture.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is always a bonus!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Short pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
• Dried herbs (oregano, basil)
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the canned diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta: Add your chosen short pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Taste and Adjust: Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper as desired.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley, if using. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or beans for a heartier vegetarian version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water as the pasta can absorb some of the liquid as it sits.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

Cook the pasta al dente, and if you’re storing leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual servings.

Can I freeze pasta soup?

Yes, but the pasta may become mushy after thawing. If freezing, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it fresh when reheating.

What type of pasta works best for this soup?

Short pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best, as they hold up well in the broth.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just follow the package directions for cooking times.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but be sure to undercook the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheated.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Add beans, lentils, or cooked proteins like chicken or sausage to make the soup more filling.

Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned vegetables, but be sure to drain them well before adding to the soup.

How can I thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry of flour and water or cornstarch and water to the broth. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

What are some good side dishes for this soup?

A simple green salad, crusty bread, or garlic bread are great sides for this pasta soup.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this recipe is kid-friendly and can easily be adjusted to suit their tastes by omitting stronger flavors like garlic or red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Pasta Soup is a satisfying and versatile meal perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this one-pot soup is both comforting and nourishing. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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