Quick and Easy Pasta Soup

This Quick and Easy Pasta Soup is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something warm, comforting, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s a one-pot meal that’s not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables or pasta you have on hand. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but light enough to enjoy as a starter or side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta soup is everything you want in a meal: easy, flavorful, and quick! The best part is that it can be customized to your taste with different vegetables or seasonings. The combination of tender pasta and savory broth creates a satisfying base, while the vegetables add freshness and texture. Plus, you can make it in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is simple yet full of comforting flavors, making it a family favorite in no time.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup small pasta (such as elbow macaroni, ditalini, or shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the pasta and dried oregano and basil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last minute of cooking and let it wilt.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for extra protein.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas to make it even more hearty.
• Spicy Version: For some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili when cooking the vegetables.
• Pasta Swap: Swap in gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta to suit your dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it’s thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta you have on hand, like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta size.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors will deepen as it sits. If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, you can add more broth when reheating.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, combine the vegetables, broth, tomatoes, herbs, and pasta in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, adding spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes, beans like white beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas would be a great addition for extra protein and fiber. Just add them with the broth.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. You’ll need about 4–5 medium tomatoes, chopped, and you may need to cook them down a bit longer to make a similar texture.

How do I store leftover pasta soup?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta soup?

You can freeze the soup without the pasta. Cook the pasta separately and add it when you reheat the soup. If you freeze the soup with pasta, the pasta may become mushy when reheated.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and skip any meat. This soup is naturally vegetarian without any meat, so it’s an easy change.

What other herbs can I use in this soup?

In addition to oregano and basil, you can also add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for more flavor. Fresh herbs would be best added at the end of cooking for optimal flavor.

Can I add cheese to this soup?

Yes! A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top would be a great addition. Stirring some shredded cheese into the soup at the end of cooking would also create a creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Pasta Soup is the ideal solution for a busy day when you want something tasty, filling, and comforting. With its simple ingredients, it’s easy to make, and the addition of pasta and vegetables makes it both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Enjoy a warm, nourishing bowl of homemade soup that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

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