Warm, hearty, and loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta, Homemade Minestrone Soup is the ultimate Italian comfort food. This classic soup is budget-friendly, nourishing, and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. With its tomato-rich broth and mix of seasonal veggies, it’s a flexible recipe that you can make year-round — just like Italian grandmothers have been doing for centuries. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a filling meal that will please the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Minestrone Soup
This soup is comforting, customizable, and budget-friendly. It’s a one-pot wonder that packs in protein from beans, fiber from veggies, and heartiness from pasta. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, and the flavors deepen as it sits — making it even better the next day.
Tips for Success
- Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the broth.
- Boost flavor with a Parmesan rind simmered in the broth.
- Adjust broth as needed — minestrone should be brothy but hearty.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Autumn Minestrone: Add diced butternut squash or pumpkin.
- Protein boost: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken.
- Herby twist: Fresh basil or rosemary at the end brightens the flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
- Serve with grilled bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Pair with a green salad for a light but filling meal.
- Add to a holiday or Sunday dinner spread as a cozy starter.
- Top with fresh herbs and Parmesan for that authentic Italian touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What pasta is best for minestrone soup?
Small shapes like elbow, ditalini, or shells work best. They hold up well and don’t overpower the vegetables.
2. Can I make minestrone in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add everything except pasta and greens to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours. Stir in pasta and greens during the last 20 minutes.
3. How long does minestrone last in the fridge?
It keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
4. Is minestrone soup healthy?
Absolutely. It’s packed with vegetables, beans, and fiber, making it both hearty and nutritious.
5. Can I freeze minestrone soup?
Yes — freeze without pasta for best results. Add cooked pasta when reheating.
Homemade Minestrone Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Sauté vegetables – In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Build the broth – Stir in zucchini, bell pepper, green beans, diced tomatoes, and broth. Add oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add beans and pasta – Stir in cannellini beans, kidney beans, and pasta. Simmer until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Finish with greens – Stir in spinach or kale and let wilt for 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve – Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese.
- Meal prep tip: Like chicken noodle soup, cook pasta separately if planning to store leftovers. Add when reheating so it doesn’t soak up all the broth.
- Seasonal twist: Minestrone is traditionally made with whatever vegetables are in season — use what you have on hand.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze in containers (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
