There is something incredibly comforting and delicious about a warm, cheesy bowl of soup, and this Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe hits all the right notes. It combines tender pasta, rich Parmesan cheese, and a savory broth that is bursting with flavor from garlic, onion, and herbs. This is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day but is simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re new to making soups or a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy goodness and fresh, vibrant flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays its part in layering flavors, from the robust broth to the fragrant herbs and the star, Parmesan cheese, which brings everything together with its nutty creaminess.
- Olive oil: This helps sauté the aromatics smoothly and adds a subtle fruity base flavor.
- Small onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation for the soup.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with a warm, pungent aroma.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that forms the heart of the soup.
- Can of diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a bright acidity and juicy texture to the broth.
- Small pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or ditalini): Offers a tender bite that soaks up the delicious soup flavors.
- Dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness and depth.
- Dried basil: Adds a sweet herbal note that balances the acidity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish: The creamy, salty finish that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant touch to brighten the presentation and flavor.
How to Make Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until it releases that irresistible fragrant aroma. This gentle cooking awakens the flavors that will deeply enrich your soup base.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth along with the entire can of diced tomatoes, including their juice, which adds lovely moisture and tang. Stir in the dried oregano and basil to infuse the soup with subtle herbal notes. Bring everything to a rolling boil so the flavors start melding beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add your choice of small pasta. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through but still holds a touch of firmness. This ensures your soup has the perfect pasta texture without becoming mushy.
Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan
Now the magic happens. Turn down the heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely and turns the soup luxuriously creamy. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as you like—it’s all about balancing the savory and cheesy flavors to your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Dish the soup into warm bowls and don’t be shy with extra Parmesan on top. If you like, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve immediately while it’s cozy and creamy. This soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you need some comforting nourishment on hand.
How to Serve Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish gives a delightful finishing touch that intensifies the cheesy richness with every bite. Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley not only brighten the bowl with their vibrant green hues but also add a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy soup. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Pasta Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic focaccia that you can dip right into the broth for an extra treat. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp, fresh counterpoint, making the meal feel complete yet balanced. For something heartier, roasted vegetables or a charcuterie board enhance the cozy vibe without overpowering the delicate soup flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls or even inside hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests with charming presentation. You can also layer the soup with a sprinkle of crunchy toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for texture. For a playful twist, serve it as a first course alongside a robust Parmesan-stuffed omelet for a Parmesan-themed dinner party everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you might just want to save some), store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the pasta will absorb more broth as it sits, so the soup will thicken—adding a splash of broth or water when reheating will revive its perfect consistency.
Freezing
This Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe freezes well but be mindful that pasta texture can slightly change after freezing and thawing. To keep the soup at peak quality, freeze it in portions without the pasta if possible, and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. If freezing with pasta, use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months.
Reheating
Warm your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help melt any separated cheese. Add a bit of broth, water, or milk if the soup has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too—just cover the bowl loosely and stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Parmesan is key to the signature flavor of this soup because of its nutty and salty characteristics, but you can experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper tang or Asiago for a milder alternative. Just note the soup’s creaminess and flavor profile may differ slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply choose vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the soup remains just as flavorful and satisfying. The combination of garlic, herbs, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese makes this a hearty vegetarian comfort food.
What pasta shapes work best in the Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe?
Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells are ideal because they cook quickly and fit nicely on a spoon with the broth. Avoid large pasta shapes, as they can overwhelm the soup and take longer to cook.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrition and color. Other veggies such as zucchini or carrots can be sautéed with the onion for a more textured, veggie-packed version.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente, and if possible, cook it separately and add it to the soup right before serving. Alternatively, keep the pasta cooking time on the shorter side and avoid reheating soup too many times to maintain the pasta’s integrity.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels both special and homey at once. Its simplicity is its charm, proving that a few humble ingredients can come together in a way that delights your taste buds and warms your soul. I encourage you to give this recipe a try next time you’re craving something comforting and cheesy—you might just find your new favorite soup to share with friends and family!
Print
Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Parmesan Pasta Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Made by simmering small pasta in a savory tomato and herb broth, then enriched with melted Parmesan cheese, it offers a deliciously cozy combination of textures and tastes in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup small pasta (like elbow macaroni, small shells, or ditalini)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the dried oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Once the broth is boiling, add the small pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still al dente.
- Stir in the Parmesan: Reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- For a richer soup, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Adjust seasoning carefully after adding Parmesan as it is naturally salty.
