5 Italian Soups You Have To Try

When you think of Italian cuisine, what comes to mind? Pasta? Pizza? Gelato?

Sure, those are iconic, but let’s not sleep on Italian soups. They’re hearty, flavorful, and often overlooked. IMO, they’re the unsung heroes of Italian cooking.

Whether you’re craving something creamy, brothy, or packed with veggies, Italian soups have got you covered. So, grab a spoon and let’s dive into 5 Italian soups you absolutely have to try.

1. Minestrone

Let’s start with the OG of Italian soups: Minestrone. This veggie-packed wonder is like a hug in a bowl. It’s versatile, healthy, and perfect for using up whatever’s in your fridge. Plus, it’s so customizable that no two bowls are ever the same. FYI, it’s also a great way to sneak in those veggies if you’re feeding picky eaters.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and zucchini. Cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, and seasoning. Bring to a boil.
4. Add pasta and beans. Simmer until pasta is cooked (about 10 minutes).
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with crusty bread. Boom, you’re done!

Pro Tip: Want to make it heartier? Add a Parmesan rind while simmering. It’s a game-changer.

2. Ribollita

Next up, we have Ribollita, the Tuscan soup that’s basically minestrone’s cooler, bread-thickened cousin. This soup is so rich and comforting, it’ll make you want to book a flight to Florence. It’s also a great way to use up stale bread—waste not, want not, right?

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
• 4 slices stale bread, torn into pieces
• Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in tomatoes, broth, kale, and beans. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add bread pieces and cook until the soup thickens (about 10 minutes).
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tip: Let it sit overnight. The flavors meld together, and it tastes even better the next day.

3. Stracciatella

If you’re in the mood for something light yet satisfying, Stracciatella is your go-to. This egg-drop soup is like Italy’s answer to chicken noodle soup—simple, comforting, and perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes. Who doesn’t love a quick win?

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring broth to a simmer in a pot.
2. In a bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the simmering broth, stirring constantly.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the eggs form ribbons.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon for a fresh, zesty twist.

4. Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli, or “pasta and beans,” is the ultimate peasant food turned gourmet. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Think of it as the Italian version of chili—comfort food at its finest. And yes, it’s as fun to say as it is to eat. Go ahead, try it: pasta eh fah-joh-lee. See? Fun.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like elbow macaroni)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
3. Stir in pasta and beans. Simmer until pasta is cooked (about 10 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan. Serve hot!

Pro Tip: Mash some of the beans before adding them for a thicker, creamier texture.

5. Zuppa Toscana

Last but not least, we have Zuppa Toscana, the creamy, spicy, sausage-filled soup that’s a staple at Olive Garden. But why go out when you can make it at home? It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

1. Brown sausage in a pot. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add broth, potatoes, and sausage. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
4. Stir in kale and cream. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tip: Use spicy sausage if you like a little kick. It’s worth it.

FAQs

1. Can I make these soups vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the meat. Most of these soups are super adaptable.

2. How long do these soups last in the fridge?

Most soups will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze these soups?

Yes, except for Stracciatella (the egg doesn’t freeze well). Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

4. What’s the best bread to serve with these soups?

Crusty Italian bread or a baguette works wonders. Bonus points if you toast it with a little olive oil and garlic.

5. Are these soups gluten-free?

Most can be made gluten-free by using GF pasta or skipping it altogether. Always check your broth and breadcrumbs, though.

Final Thoughts

Italian soups are the ultimate comfort food—warm, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of veggie-packed minestrone or creamy Zuppa Toscana, there’s something here for everyone. So, next time you’re in the mood for Italian, skip the pasta and give one of these soups a try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. 😊