Name: Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 4 Tablespoons Butter; 5 Garlic Cloves, minced; 32 Ounces Vegetable Broth; 1 & 1/2 Cups Ditalini Pasta; 1/3 Cup Parmesan, finely grated; Parsley, chopped (optional); Salt, optional and to taste; Black Pepper, optional and to taste; Additional Parmesan, finely grated for topping

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If you have a soft spot for comforting, flavorful dishes that come together quickly, you’re going to love this Parmesan Pasta Soup. This cozy soup perfectly balances the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese with the satisfying bite of tender ditalini pasta, all swimming in a fragrant garlic-infused buttery broth. Parmesan Pasta Soup is an absolute gem when you want something soothing yet simple, making it a go-to for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl.

Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a key role in building the soup’s rich and inviting profile. From the creamy butter that forms the base to the sharp Parmesan that delivers that signature cheesy punch, everything is essential for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

4 Tablespoons Butter: Creates a luscious, velvety base that carries the garlic’s aroma beautifully.
5 Garlic Cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory depth that wakes up every spoonful.
32 Ounces Vegetable Broth: The flavorful liquid that forms the soul of the soup, keeping it light yet savory.
1 & 1/2 Cup Ditalini Pasta: Small, tender pasta that’s perfect for slurping and adds satisfying texture.
1/3 Cup Parmesan, finely grated: Infuses the soup with its signature salty, nutty flavor.
Parsley, chopped & optional: Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of green color.
Salt, optional & to taste: Enhances the flavors—adjust carefully since Parmesan is salty.
Black Pepper, optional & to taste: Brings subtle warmth and a sharp edge to balance the creaminess.
Parmesan, finely grated: For sprinkling on top, delivering an irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Parmesan Pasta Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Once it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 to 45 seconds. The goal here is to coax out that wonderful garlic fragrance without letting it brown, ensuring the base has a rich, aromatic foundation.

Step 2: Add the Vegetable Broth and Bring to a Boil

Next, pour in the vegetable broth and crank the heat up until it reaches a rolling boil. This broth is what will carry all the flavors, making the soup comforting and hearty without being heavy. Using vegetable broth keeps it fresh and light, perfect for those looking for a flavorful yet wholesome option.

Step 3: Cook the Ditalini Pasta Until Al Dente

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the ditalini pasta right into the pot. Let it cook according to the package directions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, until it’s just al dente. This means the pasta is tender but still has a slight chew, helping it hold up well in the soup without turning mushy.

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese

Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, it’s time to stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese. This is the magic moment when your soup transforms from simple to sensational. The heat melts the cheese right into the broth, thickening it slightly while lending that irresistible savory, nutty flavor.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Give the soup a taste and season with salt and black pepper if desired, keeping in mind Parmesan’s saltiness. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan to take it over the edge. Serve hot and enjoy every cozy, cheesy spoonful!

How to Serve Parmesan Pasta Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a crisp brightness that balances the rich cheese perfectly. A crack or two of black pepper gives a mild heat that compliments the buttery broth delightfully. Don’t skip that extra Parmesan on top—it melts slightly and creates a little cheesy crown that’s pure joy.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty garlic bread or a fresh, crisp salad for a complete meal. The hearty yet light nature of the soup means you can round it out however you like—perhaps a simple side of roasted vegetables or a sharp, zesty arugula salad to brighten the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Parmesan Pasta Soup in rustic bowls for that homey, inviting feel, or try mini bread bowls for a fun twist. For a casual gathering, offer assorted toppings like extra Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, or even a drizzle of chili oil to customize every bowl to each guest’s liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, you can store Parmesan Pasta Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the pasta continues to absorb liquid, the soup might thicken overnight, so adding a splash of broth or water when reheating helps bring back the perfect texture.

Freezing

Freezing this soup is possible but with a small caution—pasta sometimes changes texture after freezing and thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the pasta, then cook fresh pasta separately to mix in after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Add a little broth or water if the soup seems too thick. This method preserves the flavors and keeps the soup silky, with the Parmesan Pasta Soup tasting as lovely as when first made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Absolutely! Chicken broth adds a deeper, savory richness if you prefer a non-vegetarian option, but vegetable broth keeps it lighter and great for vegetarians.

Can I substitute the ditalini pasta with another type?

Yes, any small pasta like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo works well in this soup. Just make sure it’s a quick-cooking variety so it doesn’t overpower the delicate broth.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

To keep it dairy-free, swap butter for olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious and comforting!

How can I make the soup more filling?

Add cooked beans or shredded chicken for extra protein and substance without losing that comforting feel. It’s an easy way to bulk up the soup for a heartier meal.

Can I prepare parts of this soup in advance?

You can mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan ahead of time to save steps on cooking day. Just keep the broth and pasta uncooked until you’re ready to quickly bring everything together.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Pasta Soup is a wonderful little treasure for any home cook looking for warmth and flavor in one pot. Its simplicity is its charm, proving that with just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly comforting and delightful. I can’t wait for you to try making this cozy soup and savor every cheesy, garlicky spoonful with those you love.

Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Parmesan Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender ditalini pasta simmered in a rich vegetable broth, infused with garlic and butter, and topped with freshly grated Parmesan and parsley. Perfect for a cozy meal, it offers a delightful balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in a quick and easy recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 Tablespoons Butter
5 Garlic Cloves, minced
32 Ounces Vegetable Broth
1 & 1/2 Cups Ditalini Pasta
1/3 Cup Parmesan, finely grated

For Serving & Garnish

Parsley, chopped (optional)
Salt, optional and to taste
Black Pepper, optional and to taste
Additional Parmesan, finely grated for topping

Instructions

Melt the Butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until fully liquefied and warm to the touch.
Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic cloves and stir them in the melted butter for 30-45 seconds or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
Add Broth and Bring to Boil: Pour in the 32 ounces of vegetable broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Cook Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in 1/3 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese to the hot soup until melted and combined, creating a creamy texture.
Season and Serve: Taste and add salt and black pepper as desired. Serve the soup topped with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and extra grated Parmesan for garnish.
Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, pairing with crusty bread if desired for a complete meal.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture; pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference, as vegetable broth can vary in saltiness.
Ditalini pasta can be substituted with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or orzo.
For a richer soup, stir in a splash of cream or milk after adding the Parmesan.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-inspired