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White Pasta e Fagioli

Hearty White Pasta e Fagioli: Cozy Comfort in Every Spoonful

This Hearty White Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup featuring tender white beans and savory pancetta, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Simmering Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 4 oz Pancetta Adds a rich, savory flavor; substitute with Canadian bacon or smoked ham for a similar taste.
  • 1 tsp Thyme Provides earthy aromatic notes; no direct substitute, but oregano or basil can offer a different flavor perspective.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Enhances the herbaceous quality of the soup; use dried oregano if fresh is not available.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Brings freshness and a pop of color; can be swapped with basil or cilantro for varied undertones.
  • 2 stalks Celery Adds crunch and flavor; optional to replace with leeks for a sweeter profile.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Essential for depth of flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Contributes warmth and richness; you can use garlic powder in a pinch (1/4 tsp per clove).
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances flavors; adjust to your taste. Sea salt can be a substitute.
  • 2 cans Canned Cannellini Beans The main source of protein and creaminess; use navy beans as an alternative if needed.
  • 1 piece Parmesan Rind Adds umami depth to the broth; replace with Pecorino Romano if needed.
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Serves as the base liquid contributing to the soup's flavor; opt for chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Ditalini Pasta Provides texture and bulk; substitute with small tube pasta like elbow macaroni or tubetti.
  • 1/2 tsp White Pepper Offers a subtle heat; black pepper can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Used for finishing and flavor enhancement; flavored olive oil can give an extra kick.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a Dutch oven over medium-low heat, add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Carefully remove the pancetta using a slotted spoon and set it on paper towels to drain, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot.
  2. In the same pot, add the diced yellow onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the rendered pancetta fat. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until softened and the onion is translucent, about 8 minutes.
  3. While the vegetables are cooking, puree one can of cannellini beans in a blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside the remaining whole beans; this creamy mixture will enrich the broth.
  4. To the pot, add the pureed beans, whole cannellini beans, cubed potatoes, thyme and oregano herb bundle, and parmesan rind. Pour in vegetable broth and stir. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 25-30 minutes.
  5. While the soup simmers, boil salted water in a separate pot. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  6. Once the soup ingredients are tender, remove the herb bundle and parmesan rind. Stir in the cooked ditalini pasta and crispy pancetta, and allow to meld for 5 additional minutes.
  7. Taste your comforting soup and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and white pepper as needed. Serve in bowls topped with freshly grated parmesan, minced parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute the pancetta with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh.

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