When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of Italian soup to hit the spot. From creamy, cheesy indulgences to light and brothy options, Italy has a rich tradition of soups that are both delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner option, these 20 Italian soup recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the many flavors and textures of Italian soup-making, from classic minestrone to creamy Tuscan white bean soup, and everything in between. So grab your spoon and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Italian soups!
Classic Minestrone Soup
Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe
This hearty Italian soup is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This recipe is a simplified take on the traditional dish, using canned goods to streamline preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pasta.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a flavorful blend of tender cannellini beans, rich chicken broth, and velvety cream, infused with the aroma of garlic, onion, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream; adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ribollita (Tuscan Bread Soup)
Ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup, is a comforting and flavorful dish made with bread, vegetables, and cannellini beans. This recipe is a perfect representation of the simple yet satisfying cuisine of Tuscany.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into small cubes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the bread, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta e Fagioli
This classic Italian soup combines tender pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and rich tomato sauce for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beans, tomatoes, broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Stir in cooked pasta. Simmer an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zuppa Toscana with Sausage and Kale
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, onion, and garlic to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stracciatella (Italian Egg Drop Soup)
A classic Italian comfort food, Stracciatella is a simple yet satisfying soup made with eggs, chicken broth, and pasta. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz spaghetti or other long pasta
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large saucepan.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and salt until smooth.
4. Gradually pour the hot broth into the egg yolks while continuously whisking until well combined.
5. Add the cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Pancetta Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Lentil and Pancetta Soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch. This Italian-inspired soup is packed with tender lentils, crispy pancetta, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Parmesan
This classic Italian-inspired soup combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the brightness of basil and the richness of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its smooth texture and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), diced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian-American soup recipe has been a staple at weddings and family gatherings for generations. With its rich, flavorful broth and tender meatballs, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup pot.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stelline Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, rich cheese, and al dente stelline pasta. A delicious and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz stelline pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the broccoli and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Cook the stelline pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in the grated cheese until melted. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and soup mixture. Heat through before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
This hearty soup combines spicy sausage with creamy tortellini and vegetables for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tortellini. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cioppino (Italian Seafood Stew)
This classic San Francisco-style Cioppino is a flavorful and filling seafood stew that combines a medley of fish and shellfish with aromatics and tomatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed
– 1 lb cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mussels, clams, cod, shrimp, tomatoes, fish broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pappa al Pomodoro (Tomato and Bread Soup)
A classic Italian soup from Tuscany, Pappa al Pomodoro is a comforting and flavorful meal made with fresh tomatoes, bread, and herbs. This hearty soup is perfect for a cold winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup stale bread, torn into small pieces
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, bread, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the bread has broken down and the soup has thickened.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cannellini Bean and Rosemary Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy cannellini beans, fragrant rosemary, and savory vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and rosemary; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Escarole and Meatball Soup
This soul-warming soup is a perfect blend of tender meatballs, crisp escarole, and rich broth. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 head escarole, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs in a bowl. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add chopped escarole and cooked meatballs to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pistou Soup with Italian Herbs
This hearty soup from Provence, France, gets a Mediterranean twist with the addition of Italian herbs like basil and oregano. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chickpeas, vegetable broth, water, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup
This creamy soup combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and potatoes with a hint of aromatic herbs. Perfect as a comforting meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Meanwhile, toss garlic cloves with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened. Add roasted potatoes, chicken broth, and roasted garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Orzo Soup with Lemon
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful soup, featuring chicken, orzo, and a hint of lemon zest. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal or as a pick-me-up during the cold winter months.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, garlic, and oregano in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, orzo pasta, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Farro Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of farro with an array of colorful vegetables, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add the farro, onion, garlic, carrots, zucchinis, and thyme. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the farro is tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Porcini Mushroom and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of earthy porcini mushrooms and nutty barley, simmered to perfection in a rich chicken broth. A comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried porcini mushrooms
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Reconstitute the porcini mushrooms by soaking them in hot water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and chop.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped porcini mushrooms, chicken broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 deliciously comforting Italian soup recipes! From classic Minestrone to Creamy Tuscan White Bean, Ribollita (Tuscan Bread Soup) to Zuppa Toscana with Sausage and Kale, there’s a hearty bowl of goodness for everyone. These authentic Italian soups feature a range of flavors and ingredients, including pasta, beans, sausage, kale, and more. Perfect for chilly days or any time you need a comforting meal, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and soul.
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