Go Back
+ servings
White Pasta e Fagioli

Comforting White Pasta e Fagioli for Cozy Nights In

This comforting White Pasta e Fagioli combines crispy pancetta, creamy white beans, and tender potatoes in a fragrant broth, perfect for chilly nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 4 ounces Pancetta Can substitute with Canadian bacon or smoked ham.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Thyme Tied as bouquet garni for easy removal.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Dried oregano can be used if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Parsley Basil can be used for a different flavor.
  • 2 ribs Celery, sliced Leeks can be used for a sweeter taste.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced Shallots can be substituted for a delicate flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh ginger can be used for a different profile.
For the Heartiness
  • 30 ounces Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed 15 ounces pureed, navy beans can be substituted.
  • 2 medium Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced Yukon golds can be a good alternative.
  • 1 Parmesan Rind Can be replaced with pecorino or omitted.
For Final Touches
  • 6 cups Vegetable Broth Chicken broth can be used for a richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Ditalini Pasta Tubetti or macaroni can work if needed.
  • 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper Black pepper can be used as a replacement.
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 6 teaspoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored olive oils can provide a unique twist.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Blender
  • Pot

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot to add flavor.
  2. Create a bouquet garni by tying together the thyme, oregano, and parsley for aromatic infusion.
  3. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in the rendered fat for about 8 minutes until softened.
  4. Puree one can of cannellini beans until smooth and keep the others whole for texture.
  5. Add pureed beans, whole beans, diced potatoes, parmesan rind, and bouquet garni to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  7. Prepare the ditalini pasta in a separate pot until al dente, then drain.
  8. Remove herb bundle and cheese rind from the soup. Stir in cooked pasta and pancetta to warm together.
  9. Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and white pepper. Serve hot topped with grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 16gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For best results, add the pasta halfway through cooking to prevent mushiness. Consider letting the soup sit overnight for enhanced flavors.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!