Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup

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Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup is the ultimate feel-better bowl that generations of Italian families have turned to when anyone in the house caught a sniffle. This healing, nostalgic dish is affectionately known as “Italian penicillin,” thanks to its comforting warmth, simplicity, and soul-soothing power. Made with star-shaped pastina pasta, wholesome broth, and just a few kitchen staples, this soup is proof that magic lives in the basics.

Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need something light and cozy, or simply crave a childhood classic, Pastina Soup delivers in a big way. It’s gentle on the stomach, quick to prepare, and infinitely adaptable to your favorite add-ins like an egg, grated cheese, or even a splash of lemon.

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Why You’ll Love This Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup

• It cooks in under 20 minutes, perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
• It’s naturally soothing and easy to digest.
• Kid-friendly, senior-approved, and a total comfort classic.
• Minimal ingredients, maximum comfort.
• You can personalize it with fresh herbs, a soft-boiled egg, or extra protein.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Pastina Soup?

“Pastina” literally means “tiny pasta” in Italian, and the classic variety used is stelline (tiny stars). But if you can’t find stelline, other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini make great substitutes. The key is keeping the size small so the pasta cooks quickly and floats easily in the broth without overpowering the spoon.

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Ingredients for the Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup

Pastina (stelline): These tiny pasta stars are the heart of the soup, providing just enough substance to make each spoonful satisfying.

Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The base that delivers comfort and flavor. Homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s good quality and well-seasoned.

Garlic: A medicinal powerhouse that adds a hint of warmth and depth to the broth.

Butter: Adds a gentle richness that smooths out the flavors and brings the whole soup together.

Salt and pepper: Just enough to season the broth and enhance every bite.

Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty umami finish that blends beautifully into the hot broth.

Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of brightness to finish off the dish.

Egg (optional): Cracked and whisked into the hot broth, it adds body and protein – like a soft scramble meets egg drop soup.

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How To Make the Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Warm the Broth

Pour 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth into a medium saucepan. Add the minced garlic and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Pastina

Once the broth is bubbling, stir in 1/2 cup of pastina. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5-6 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 3: Add Butter and Season

Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the flavors melt together.

Step 4: Optional Egg Swirl

If adding an egg, crack it into a small bowl and beat lightly. Slowly drizzle it into the hot soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.

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How Many People Does This Serve?

This Pastina Soup recipe yields 2 hearty bowls or 3 light servings. It’s ideal for one cozy night in or a duo feeling under the weather. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a fuller meal.

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How to Store Italian Pastina Soup

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pastina may absorb more broth as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of water or extra broth when reheating. For best results, reheat gently over the stove rather than microwaving to preserve the texture.

If you’d like to make it ahead, cook the broth and store the cooked pastina separately. Combine and heat before serving to maintain the best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Orzo, ditalini, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti can all work in place of stelline.

Is this soup good for babies or toddlers?
Yes! Pastina soup is often a baby’s first comfort food in Italian homes. Just skip the salt and make sure the broth is mild and low-sodium.

Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
You can use vegetable broth and skip the egg and Parmesan to make this vegan. Add a drizzle of olive oil for richness.

How do I add protein?
Besides the optional egg, you can add shredded chicken, white beans, or tofu for extra protein.

What sides go well with pastina soup?
Try pairing it with garlic bread, a simple arugula salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this cozy Italian Pastina Penicillin Soup, you’ll love these comforting bowls too:

• Instant Pot French Onion Soup
• Fresh Tomato Soup
• Creamy Honey Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
• Chipotle Chicken Soup
• Turkey Taco Soup

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with the egg or add something extra? Did it remind you of childhood?

I love hearing how others bring these recipes to life. Questions welcome too — let’s help each other cook and feel better together.

Check out more feel-good dishes and everyday comfort recipes on my Pinterest at Life With Mira.

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