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A bowl of comforting Creamy Pasta Soup is shown as the featured image for a recipe article.

Creamy Pasta Soup

This creamy pasta soup recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful bowl without the starchy mess. By controlling starch release and gently incorporating dairy, this recipe ensures a velvety smooth texture and rich taste. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and easy to customize.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup small pasta ditalini, orzo, or small shells work well
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded optional
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle
  • vegetable peeler

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Be careful not to overcook the pasta.
  6. If using, add the cooked chicken to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
  7. Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat through, being careful not to boil.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure to gently warm it before adding it to the soup. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to the soup.