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What is the difference between pasta fagioli and pasta fazool?

If you’ve ever heard of Pasta Fagioli or Pasta Fazool, you may be wondering what the difference is between the two. These names both refer to a hearty, bean-based Italian dish, but the terminology changes based on region and cultural influences. While both dishes share common roots, they have subtle differences in how they’re prepared and enjoyed.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup ditalini pasta
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions

  • Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
  • Cook Pasta Separately: In a separate pot, cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Add Beans and Pasta: Stir in the drained beans and cooked pasta. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Whether you call it Pasta Fagioli or Pasta Fazool, this dish remains a beloved classic in both Italy and Italian-American cuisine. The main difference comes down to pronunciation and a few regional tweaks, but both versions offer a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. So why not try both versions and see which one you prefer?

  • Author: Lyli Mildiva
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Pasta Fagioli, Pasta Fazool, pasta and beans, Italian soup, Italian-American cuisine, hearty soup, traditional Italian recipes, comfort food, vegetarian soup