Pastina soup is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, soothing dish that brings nostalgia with every spoonful. Whether you grew up eating it as a childhood remedy for colds or simply love its delicate, creamy texture, this Italian classic remains a beloved favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pastina soup recipe is simple, nourishing, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need a quick meal, or just want a taste of home-cooked warmth, this dish delivers on every level. Here’s why you’ll love it:
1. Ready in Under 30 Minutes
With minimal prep and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Made with Pantry Staples
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make a delicious bowl of pastina soup. Basic pantry items like broth, butter, eggs, and Parmesan cheese come together effortlessly to create a rich and flavorful dish.
3. Ultimate Comfort Food
Pastina soup has a smooth, creamy texture that feels like a warm embrace. It’s easy on the stomach, making it ideal when you need something light yet nourishing.
4. Kid-Friendly and Customizable
Children love the tiny pasta, and you can easily adjust the recipe to fit different tastes. Add vegetables, protein, or extra cheese for a heartier version.
5. Easily Adaptable for Dietary Needs
This recipe can be made gluten-free by swapping in a small gluten-free pasta. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
If you love cozy, nourishing soups, you might also enjoy this Turkey Rice Soup Recipe—a hearty and flavorful way to use up leftover turkey!
Ingredients and Substitutions
This pastina soup recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, but each one plays an essential role in creating its rich, comforting flavor. Below, you’ll find the key ingredients along with possible substitutions to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
Essential Ingredients
- Pastina Pasta (½ cup) – Traditional pastina is a tiny star-shaped pasta, but since it’s become harder to find, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, orzo, or stelline.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Provides a deep, savory flavor. Use homemade broth for the best taste, but store-bought works well too. If making a vegetarian version, swap for vegetable broth.
- Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness and a silky texture. Olive oil can be used as a lighter alternative.
- Egg (1 large, whisked) – Helps create the signature creamy texture. If you prefer a dairy-based creaminess, you can replace the egg with a splash of warm milk or heavy cream.
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated) – Brings a nutty, umami flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a slightly sharper taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the overall flavor. Adjust based on your preference and the saltiness of your broth.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
- Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Adds depth to the broth.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon) – A touch of acidity brightens the flavors.
- Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or basil, for garnish) – Adds color and freshness.
- Shredded Chicken (½ cup, cooked) – Makes the soup heartier and more filling.
- Vegetables (like diced carrots or spinach) – Boosts nutrition without overpowering the delicate flavor.
How to Make Pastina Soup
Making pastina soup is incredibly simple and requires only a few steps. Follow this method to achieve a creamy, comforting bowl of soup in under 30 minutes.
Step 1: Heat the Broth
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. If you’re using homemade broth, give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 2: Cook the Pastina
Once the broth is simmering, add ½ cup of pastina pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook until the pasta is tender, about 5–7 minutes. If using a different small pasta shape, check the package instructions for the exact cooking time.
Step 3: Add Butter and Seasoning
Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt into the soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re adding garlic or other optional seasonings, stir them in at this stage to enhance the depth of flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Egg for Creaminess
In a small bowl, whisk 1 large egg until smooth. Reduce the heat to low and slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring constantly. This technique, similar to making egg drop soup, creates delicate egg ribbons that add richness to the broth.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the soup and stir until it melts, creating a slightly creamy texture. If you prefer an even richer consistency, you can add a splash of warm milk or a drizzle of heavy cream at this stage.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 7: Enjoy Immediately
Serve the pastina soup warm in a bowl. It’s best enjoyed fresh while the pasta is still tender and the broth is silky. Pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal or enjoy it on its own for a light, soothing dish.
Pair your warm bowl of Pastina Soup with a crunchy snack like this Chex Mix Recipe (Oven) for a perfect balance of textures!
Tips and Tricks
Making pastina soup is simple, but a few expert tips can take it from good to exceptional. Follow these tricks to ensure the best flavor, texture, and consistency every time.
1. Use High-Quality Broth for Maximum Flavor
Since broth is the foundation of this soup, using a rich, well-seasoned homemade chicken broth will give you the best results. If using store-bought, choose a low-sodium option so you can control the salt level.
2. Stir the Pastina Frequently
Tiny pasta like pastina can stick together as it cooks. Stirring every minute or so helps keep it from clumping and ensures even cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Pastina cooks quickly—usually in 5 to 7 minutes. If overcooked, it will absorb too much liquid and turn mushy. If you prefer a soupier texture, cook the pasta just until tender and remove it from the heat immediately.
4. Add the Egg Slowly for the Best Texture
To avoid scrambling the egg, lower the heat before adding it. Slowly drizzle the whisked egg into the soup while stirring constantly to create delicate egg ribbons rather than clumps.
5. Balance the Creaminess
For a silkier texture, add a splash of warm milk or a drizzle of heavy cream along with the Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a brothier consistency, simply skip this step.
6. Adjust the Thickness as Needed
Pastina continues absorbing liquid as it sits. If your soup thickens too much before serving, stir in a little extra warm broth until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Customize with Add-Ins
While traditional pastina soup is simple, you can easily add ingredients to make it more filling:
- Stir in shredded chicken for extra protein.
- Add finely chopped spinach or carrots for a nutritional boost.
- Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper for mild heat.
8. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture
Pastina soup is best enjoyed fresh and hot. If left sitting, the pasta will absorb more liquid and become too thick. If you need to let it sit, keep some extra warm broth on hand to loosen it before serving.
Want a fun twist? Serve your Pastina Soup alongside Taco Bell Nacho Fries for a comforting yet indulgent meal!
FAQs
Why did they stop making pastina pasta?
Pastina pasta became harder to find after certain manufacturers, like Ronzoni, discontinued production due to supply chain challenges and equipment limitations. However, other brands still produce small pasta shapes that work well as substitutes, such as acini di pepe, orzo, and stelline.
What is so special about pastina?
Pastina is beloved for its tiny size and delicate texture, making it easy to eat and digest. It’s a staple in many Italian households, often prepared as a comforting meal for children, the elderly, or anyone in need of a simple, nourishing dish. Its versatility allows it to be made into soups, creamy porridges, or even served with butter and cheese.
Are you supposed to drain pastina?
It depends on how you’re preparing it. For pastina soup, the pasta is cooked directly in the broth, so there’s no need to drain it. However, if you’re making pastina as a standalone dish (e.g., with butter and cheese), you should cook it in water and drain it before adding other ingredients.
Why does pastina make me feel better?
Pastina is often associated with comfort and nostalgia. Its warm, creamy texture is soothing, especially when you’re feeling sick or need an easy-to-digest meal. The combination of warm broth, butter, and cheese provides a gentle, satisfying dish that feels like a homemade remedy for colds, fatigue, or stress.
Print
Pastina Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This pastina soup is a quick, creamy, and comforting Italian dish made with tiny pasta, rich broth, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for cozy nights, sick days, or an easy meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup pastina pasta (or acini di pepe, orzo, stelline)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large egg, whisked
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon lemon juice, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Add pastina pasta and stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly drizzle the whisked egg into the soup while stirring continuously to create egg ribbons.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash of lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- If the soup thickens too much, add extra warm broth to loosen it.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add extra broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Soup
- Cuisine: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg