pastina ~ aka comfort in a bowl
pastina ~ aka comfort in a bowl is a easy Italian recipe that serves 2. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by jasmineandtea on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 18 min | Total: 36 min
Cost: $8.62 total, $4.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Star-Shaped Pastina (tiny star-shaped pasta, can substitute any small pasta)
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base Paste (dissolved in water to make broth)
- 2 cups Water (for broth)
- 2 cloves Garlic (grated finely)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (divided: 2 tbsp for cooking, 2 tbsp for finishing)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
Instructions
Make the broth
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups water with 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon chicken paste. Stir until fully dissolved and bring to a gentle boil.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 212°F
Add garlic and butter
Reduce heat to a low simmer, add the grated garlic and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until the butter melts completely.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 180°F
Cook the pastina
Add 1 cup star-shaped pastina to the broth. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 180°F
Finish the soup
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, the grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until everything melts into a creamy broth.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired and serve immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 10g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Not vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Star-Shaped Pastina: Orzo, Acini di Pepe
- Instead of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base Paste: Chicken stock cubes, Homemade chicken broth
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Olive oil, Margarine
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Grater
- Measuring Cups
- Wooden Spoon
- Ladle (optional)
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Dissolving the bouillon paste completely to avoid grainy broth.
- Cooking the tiny pastina without it sticking to the pan.
- Finishing the soup off the heat to keep the cheese smooth.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra depth, add a splash of white wine after the butter melts.
- A pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth to the broth.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Troubleshooting
Pasta becomes mushy.
Reduce simmer time to 8 minutes and check texture frequently.
Cheese clumps instead of melting.
Add the cheese off the heat and stir continuously; ensure the broth is not boiling.
Soup is too salty.
Dilute with a little extra water or unsalted broth and adjust seasoning.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Freezer: Not recommended to freeze due to pasta texture; you may freeze the broth separately for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the broth and store it in the fridge; add pasta and finish when ready.
- Grate the Parmesan ahead of time and keep it sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of pastina soup in Italian cuisine?
Pastina, meaning "tiny pasta," has long been a staple in Italian households, especially as a comforting dish for children and the elderly. Served in broth, it embodies the Italian tradition of simple, nourishing meals that bring families together.
What are the traditional regional variations of pastina soup in Italy?
In northern Italy, pastina is often served in a clear chicken or beef broth, while southern regions may add tomato base or herbs like basil. Some families also enrich the soup with eggs or cheese for extra protein.
How is pastina traditionally served in Italian homes?
Traditionally, pastina is ladled into shallow bowls, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of butter, and eaten hot as a quick lunch or comforting dinner.
What occasions or celebrations is pastina soup traditionally associated with in Italian culture?
Pastina soup is commonly served during family gatherings, after school meals, or as a soothing dish for someone feeling under the weather. Its simplicity makes it a go‑to comfort food for everyday life rather than special holidays.
What other Italian dishes pair well with pastina soup?
Pastina soup pairs nicely with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon, crusty Italian bread, or a light antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and fresh mozzarella.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for pastina soup versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include star‑shaped or other tiny pasta, chicken broth made from real chicken stock, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Acceptable substitutes are chicken bouillon cubes, olive oil instead of butter, and Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making pastina soup?
Common mistakes include overcooking the tiny pasta, which turns mushy, and adding cheese while the broth is still boiling, which causes clumping. Also, not dissolving the bouillon fully can leave a grainy texture.
Why does this pastina soup recipe use Better Than Bouillon paste instead of homemade chicken stock?
The video’s creator used Better Than Bouillon for convenience and consistent flavor. It dissolves quickly, saves time, and still provides the rich, savory base that traditional homemade stock would give.
Can I make pastina soup ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the broth and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Cook the pastina fresh when ready to serve, or if pre‑cooked, store it separately and reheat gently with the broth to avoid over‑softening.
What does the YouTube channel jasmineandtea specialize in?
The YouTube channel jasmineandtea focuses on simple, comforting home‑cooked meals, often highlighting quick weeknight recipes and comfort foods with a personal, cozy storytelling style.
How does the YouTube channel jasmineandtea's approach to Italian comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?
jasmineandtea emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, budget‑friendly pantry staples, and a relaxed, home‑kitchen vibe, whereas many other channels may focus on elaborate techniques or gourmet presentations.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
