Simple, Warm, and Truly Italian

I love the Italian cuisine so much—it’s full of love, comfort, and flavor. For me, this Italian Pastina Soup is a childhood memory in a bowl. It’s soft, soothing, and tastes like a cozy hug.

Delicious and gentle, it’s the kind of soup you want when you’re feeling tired, under the weather, or just want something warm and easy. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken broth, tiny pasta, butter, and cheese, it comes together fast and feels like homemade love.

This recipe is classic and the result just makes you feel better instantly! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect cozy dinner, quick lunch, or when someone in your home needs a little comfort, this soup is everything. It’s great for kids, gentle on the stomach, and so easy to customize for anyone.

I like to enjoy it in a quiet moment with a warm spoonful at a time and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Sometimes I make a small bowl just for myself while the house is calm. This Italian Pastina Soup is super easy to make, ready in about 15 minutes, and always comforting no matter what.

What Makes Italian Pastina Soup Special?

Italian Pastina Soup is special because it’s incredibly simple and so full of comfort. Made with tiny pasta stars, broth, butter, and cheese, it’s often the first soup Italian kids eat. It brings warmth, tradition, and nostalgia in every spoonful. It’s a classic recipe passed down from nonna to grandkids and loved by all ages.

Perfect For:

• Cold Mornings or Evenings: It’s perfect when you want something warm and gentle to start or end your day.
• Sick Days or Recovery: This soup is easy on the tummy and perfect when you’re not feeling your best.
• Busy Weekdays: It’s quick, only needs a few ingredients, and doesn’t make a big mess.
• Kids and Picky Eaters: It’s mild, soft, and customizable with favorite toppings or extra cheese.

Ingredients

• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• ¾ cup pastina (tiny star-shaped pasta or any small pasta)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 egg (optional)
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium-sized soup pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for whisking egg, if using)
• Ladle
• Spoon (for stirring and serving)
• Cheese grater

How to make Italian Pastina Soup

Step 1:

In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 2:

Stir in the pastina and cook according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes), stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick.

Step 3:

Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter until melted.

Step 4: (optional)

If using an egg, beat it in a bowl. Slowly pour it into the soup while stirring to create little egg ribbons (like in egg drop soup).

Step 5:

Stir in grated cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything melt and blend for a minute.

Step 6:

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• The broth is the main flavor, so homemade or a rich store-bought one makes a big difference. Avoid bland broth—it’s worth the upgrade.
• It soaks up the flavor and makes the soup heartier. It also helps the starch thicken the broth slightly, making it more satisfying.
• Pastina is tiny and delicate—stir softly to keep it from clumping or sticking to the bottom.
• Melting it in at the end gives a silky texture without breaking the pasta. It creates a lovely richness with very little effort.
• If using an egg, beat it fully before drizzling it slowly for smooth ribbons. Stir slowly to get that soft texture.
• Fresh Parmesan or Pecorino melts better and adds amazing flavor. Pre-shredded cheese won’t give the same creaminess.
• It cooks quickly—keep it slightly firm for the best texture. Mushy pastina loses its charm.

Optional Ingredients

• Whisked egg: Stir in to make it like Italian egg drop soup.
• Frozen peas: Add a pop of color and sweetness.
• Shredded chicken: For extra protein and a heartier meal.
• Spinach: Stir in a handful just before serving.
• Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, bright flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
• Garlic powder: A pinch gives a warm depth without overwhelming the mild soup.

How to Serve Italian Pastina Soup?

The best way to serve Italian Pastina Soup is piping hot in a cozy bowl. The steam and aroma are part of the comfort experience, so don’t wait too long to enjoy it. It’s a hug in a bowl that warms both your hands and your heart.

Top each bowl with a pat of butter or a handful of grated Parmesan. The richness of the cheese melts beautifully into the soft pastina. Some like to add a drizzle of olive oil or even a small spoonful of pesto for a twist.

A small sprinkle of black pepper or chopped parsley gives it a tiny bit of color and a grown-up twist. You can even drizzle in a little olive oil if you like. A dusting of lemon zest brightens it up if you’re serving it in spring.

For little ones, leave it plain or serve it with a small side of toast. It’s so soothing, it often becomes their favorite food. You can shape the toast into hearts or stars to make the meal feel even more special.

Is Italian Pastina Soup Healthy?

Yes, Italian Pastina Soup can be healthy and nourishing. It’s light, simple, and easy to digest. It gives hydration from the broth, and gentle carbs from the pasta, and you can add protein or veggies for balance. Using low-sodium broth or homemade stock helps keep it heart-friendly.

Variations and Substitutions to try

Use orzo or acini di pepe: Any tiny pasta works if you can’t find pastina. These substitutes still give that soft, slurpy feel.

Add cooked rice instead of pasta: A great gluten-free alternative for a similar feel. Rice holds broth well and keeps things light.

Use vegetable broth: Makes it completely vegetarian and still delicious. Add carrots or celery for extra flavor.

Replace butter with olive oil: For a lighter and dairy-free version. Still smooth and satisfying, with a Mediterranean twist.

Add cooked lentils: Turns it into a more protein-rich, filling soup. Great if you’re looking for something heartier and meatless.

Use milk or cream: Add a splash for a creamier version, especially if serving it for breakfast. Kids especially love the creamy texture.

Add crushed tomatoes: For a tomato-pastina twist that’s full of Italian flavor. It’s like a lighter take on tomato soup with pasta.

Make it cheesy: Stir in mozzarella or fontina for a stretchy, melty finish. It transforms the dish into something indulgent and fun.

How to Store

Store any leftover pastina soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some broth, so you might need to add extra broth when reheating.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water as needed. Stir often and serve hot. It may thicken slightly after sitting, but the flavor will still be lovely.

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta if I don’t have pastina?

Yes, you can use any small pasta like orzo, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti. Just make sure it’s small enough to keep the soup light and easy to eat.

Is it okay to cook the pasta separately?

You can, but cooking the pastina directly in the broth gives the soup more flavor and helps slightly thicken the broth for a cozy texture.

How can I add protein to this soup?

You can stir in a beaten egg, add shredded cooked chicken, or mix in some cooked lentils for extra protein.

Is it safe for babies or toddlers?

Yes! This soup is gentle, soft, and easy to digest. Just skip the salt and seasonings for very young children.

What cheese works best?

Parmesan and Pecorino Romano are classic choices. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and adds great flavor.

Can I make it creamy?

Yes! Add a splash of milk, cream, or a bit of grated mozzarella for a creamier, richer version of the soup.

Italian Pastina Soup

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: SoupsCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Total time

20

minutes

Italian Pastina Soup is a warm, comforting dish made with tiny pasta, broth, butter, and cheese. It’s quick, soothing, and perfect for cozy days or when you need something gentle and delicious.

Ingredients

• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)

• ¾ cup pastina (tiny star-shaped pasta or any small pasta)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 egg (optional)

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (to taste)

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

• In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
• Stir in the pastina and cook according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes), stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
• Once the pasta is tender, reduce heat to low and stir in the butter until melted.
• If using an egg, beat it in a bowl. Slowly pour it into the soup while stirring to create little egg ribbons (like in egg drop soup).
• Stir in grated cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything melt and blend for a minute.
• Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!