If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve got to try this Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a savory broth enriched with the nutty depth of Parmesan cheese, fresh vegetables, and a hint of thyme—each spoonful is a symphony of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. This soup isn’t just tasty; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Every item on this list plays an important role, whether it’s bringing color, texture, or that rich, cheesy goodness that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté vegetables, it adds a subtle fruitiness that forms the soup’s flavor base.
- Small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic warmth, crucial for building flavor.
- Carrots (peeled and sliced): Offer a natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of color.
- Celery stalks (sliced): Provide crunch and a mild, refreshing earthiness.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (6 cups): The heart of the soup, enhancing every other ingredient.
- Small pasta (1 cup): Choose ditalini, orzo, or any tiny pasta for perfect spoonfuls.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Melts into the broth for that signature creamy, cheesy flavor.
- Parmesan rind (optional): Simmered in broth to deepen the savory notes.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle herbaceous touch that brightens the soup.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Baby spinach (2 cups, optional): Adds freshness and a pop of green late in cooking.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish): Provides a fresh herbal finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
How to Make Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Adding diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery, sauté them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their beautiful aromas. This step is crucial because these softened vegetables lay the flavorful groundwork for the entire soup.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the dried thyme, and if you have a Parmesan rind, toss it in now. Bringing the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to a simmer lets all those flavors get cozy together. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to fully develop the rich, comforting base.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the broth is wonderfully infused, add your small pasta to the pot. Follow your pasta package instructions for exact cooking time to ensure it’s al dente. This bite-sized pasta is perfect because it provides just the right amount of texture without overpowering the soup.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan
Remove the Parmesan rind from the pot, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth. This step transforms the soup into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. If you’re adding spinach, now is the time—in the last couple of minutes, stir it in so it wilts gently without losing its color or nutrients.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle this cheesy, comforting soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. Now, it’s ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, herbal touch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. You can also add a shaving or two of Parmesan cheese on top for an elegant finish that gives extra layers of cheesy flavor.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the soup perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. It’s a charming presentation that makes the soup feel even more special, especially for cozy dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Parmesan Pasta Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some broth overnight, so you might want to add a splash of stock or water when reheating.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you omit the spinach beforehand, as leafy greens tend to lose texture when frozen. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. The Parmesan will melt back beautifully, restoring that rich, cheesy flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Parmesan is preferred for its nutty, savory depth that defines this soup, but you could experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or Asiago for a milder twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Is this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly. The Parmesan cheese itself is vegetarian if you ensure it’s made without animal rennet.
What pasta shapes work best in this soup?
Small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or even small elbow macaroni work beautifully because they scoop up the broth and complement the vegetables without overwhelming the spoon.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Since Parmesan cheese is central to the Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe, making it entirely dairy-free would change the character of the dish. However, you could try a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast if you want a similar flavor without dairy.
How can I make the soup creamier?
For an indulgent twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after removing the Parmesan rind and just before serving. It elevates the soup to an ultra-luxe, velvety texture that’s pure comfort.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a soup that feels both wholesome and indulgent, and this Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe nails it every time. From the tender pasta morsels to the rich, cheesy broth infused with garden-fresh vegetables, it’s like a little Italian vacation in a bowl. Give it a try—you’ll soon find yourself reaching for it again and again, sharing warmth and smiles with everyone at your table.
Print
Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Parmesan Pasta Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender vegetables, savory Parmesan cheese, and small pasta cooked in a flavorful broth. This easy stovetop soup is perfect for a cozy meal and can be customized with spinach and extra cheese for added richness.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Broth and Seasoning
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional for extra flavor)
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Ingredients
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, and the Parmesan rind if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to further soften.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the small pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to the pasta package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish the Soup: Remove the Parmesan rind from the pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth, giving the soup a rich, creamy texture.
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using baby spinach, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until wilted but still vibrant green.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can use any small pasta shape you like, such as ditalini, orzo, or small shells.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- The Parmesan rind adds rich, savory depth to the broth—use it if available to boost flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
