5-ingredient Cozy Pasta Parmesan Soup Recipe

When you need a quick, comforting meal on a chilly evening or a busy weekday, this 5-ingredient Cozy Pasta Parmesan Soup is the perfect choice. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious, creamy soup that is both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just need a simple recipe with minimal prep, this soup is designed for you. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so great and how you can easily make it at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pasta Parmesan Soup is incredibly easy to make and requires just five ingredients, making it ideal for those days when you want something quick, cozy, and delicious. The rich, buttery flavor, combined with the tender pasta and the nutty notes of Parmesan, creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or whenever you need a bowl of comfort. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe where you can add your personal touches and substitutions to suit your taste!

Ingredients Overview

To make this simple yet delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 Tbsp Butter – Adds richness and a slight nutty flavor to the soup.
• 4-6 Cloves Garlic (or 1 shallot), diced – Provides a burst of aromatic flavor. Use garlic for a more intense taste or shallot for a milder, sweeter note.
• 1 (32 oz) Chicken Broth – The base of the soup that brings depth and umami flavor.
• 1 1/2 Cups Ditalini Pasta – Small tube-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a delightful chewy texture.
• 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese – Finely grated for melting into the soup, adding creaminess, and a savory flavor.
• Parsley for Garnish (Optional) – Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herby flavor.
• Salt and Pepper, to Taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before starting, gather the following kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Ladle
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep stirring occasionally until it turns a light golden color, just starting to brown. This step adds a deeper, nuttier flavor to the base of your soup.
2. Add Garlic (or Shallot): Toss in the diced garlic (or shallot) and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can create a bitter taste.
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth and Cook the Pasta: Add the chicken broth to the pot and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente), about 8-10 minutes.
4. Season the Soup: Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the Parmesan cheese is salty, so start with a little seasoning and adjust as needed after adding the cheese.
5. Incorporate the Parmesan: Lower the heat to medium and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth, creating a creamy consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of pasta soup!

Tips for Perfect Pasta Parmesan Soup

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To maintain a nice chewy texture, cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to soften slightly in the hot broth.
• Brown the Butter Slightly: Lightly browning the butter adds a complex, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Since Parmesan is salty, add salt gradually and taste frequently to avoid over-seasoning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and become bitter, so only sauté it for 30 seconds or until it’s just fragrant.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Avoid mushy pasta by keeping a close eye while cooking. Remember that it will continue to soften in the hot soup.
• Adding All the Cheese at Once: Stir in the cheese slowly and in parts to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t clump.

Variations and Swaps

• Add Vegetables: Stir in some diced carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Swap the Pasta: Use other small pasta types like orzo, elbow macaroni, or small shells if you don’t have ditalini.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to create a vegetarian version of this soup.

How to Serve and Presentation Ideas

Serve the Pasta Parmesan Soup in wide bowls to allow the steam to escape and the cheese to melt nicely. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper for an added touch of elegance. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to complement the soup’s rich, creamy texture.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Storing: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the Parmesan cheese to avoid texture changes.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
  Yes! Substitute the ditalini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
  Vegetable broth is a great alternative that will keep the soup light and flavorful while making it vegetarian-friendly.
• How Can I Add More Protein?
  Consider adding shredded cooked chicken, turkey, or even white beans for added protein.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this cozy soup with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A warm, buttered baguette would also complement the rich, savory flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This 5-Ingredient Cozy Pasta Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a soothing meal to enjoy, this soup won’t disappoint. Try it out today, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

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