Cozy Pastina Soup – The Hug-in-a-Bowl Classic

This cozy Pastina Soup is like a warm embrace in a bowl. A traditional Italian dish often served by grandparents across generations, it’s the kind of recipe that brings immediate comfort. Made with simple pantry staples, this soothing soup features tiny pasta stars gently simmered in a rich broth, finished off with creamy Parmesan, butter, and optionally a whisked egg for added richness. Whether I’m feeling under the weather or just craving a nostalgic dish, this soup never lets me down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy this soup is to make. It’s perfect when time is short but I still want something homemade and satisfying. The buttery broth, tender pastina, and melty Parmesan come together to create a deeply comforting dish without fuss. It’s also super customizable—I can keep it simple or add an egg for that silky, egg-drop-style finish. It’s kid-friendly, belly-warming, and always hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1 cup pastina (tiny star pasta or any small pasta)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional, for egg-drop style richness)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by bringing the chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. Once the broth is bubbling, I stir in the pastina and let it cook uncovered for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.

3. When the pasta is cooked, I lower the heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and well combined.

4. For a richer version, I beat the egg in a small bowl and slowly drizzle it into the hot soup while stirring gently to create delicate egg ribbons.

5. I season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Just before serving, I top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those nights when I want something quick but nourishing.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian. I also like to toss in a handful of baby spinach or peas during the last minute of cooking for an extra veggie boost. For a protein-packed version, I add shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted turkey. If I’m craving a creamier texture, I stir in a splash of warm milk or a spoonful of cream at the end.

storage/reheating

Pastina soup is best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta tends to absorb the broth as it sits, so when reheating, I add extra broth or water to loosen it up. I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

FAQs

What is pastina exactly?

Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes, often stars or dots, traditionally used in Italian soups. It’s especially popular for kids or anyone needing something soft and easy to digest.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free tiny pasta or broken gluten-free noodles if I want to make a gluten-free version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is the egg necessary?

Not at all. I love the egg for added richness and texture, but the soup is still delicious and comforting without it.

Can I add meat or veggies?

Definitely. I often add shredded chicken, diced carrots, or even a few peas to bulk it up and make it more filling.

How can I make it creamier?

For a creamier finish, I stir in a splash of milk, cream, or even a spoonful of mascarpone or ricotta right at the end.

Conclusion

Cozy Pastina Soup is a timeless dish that’s simple, fast, and full of heart. Whether I’m under the weather, pressed for time, or simply craving something nostalgic, this little bowl of comfort always comes through. It’s the perfect reminder that some of the best meals are also the simplest.