Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
Introduction
This Parmesan Pasta Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for any day of the week. With a rich garlic butter base and creamy parmesan, it combines simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup parmesan, finely grated, plus more for serving
- Fresh parsley, minced, for serving
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 3: Add the ditalini pasta and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente.
- Step 4: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Serve the soup hot, topped with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Try adding a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth amount slightly or cook longer to concentrate the flavors.
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as it thickens upon cooling.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo work well in this soup and can be substituted for ditalini.
How can I make this soup creamier?
Stirring in a little heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese after adding the parmesan will add extra creaminess and richness.
Print
Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and flavorful Parmesan Pasta Soup featuring a rich garlic-infused broth, tender ditalini pasta, and plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or cozy lunch.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 32 oz chicken broth
Pasta & Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, finely grated, plus more for serving
Garnish & Seasoning
- Fresh parsley, minced, for serving
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter & Sauté Garlic: In a large pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, ensuring the garlic releases its aroma to flavor the soup.
- Boil Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the garlic butter mixture and increase the heat to bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the pasta until al dente, following the timing on the pasta package, which is typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Add Parmesan & Season: Stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined into the soup. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, balancing the flavors to your preference.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of minced fresh parsley for brightness and color. Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian adaptation.
- If the soup thickens too much upon standing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a little broth to restore consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Parmesan Pasta Soup, Garlic Parmesan Soup, Ditalini Pasta Soup, Easy Italian Soup, Comfort Food Soup

