Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: The Cozy Cure-All You Need This Season

When life throws a cold your way—or even just a gloomy day—this Italian Penicillin Soup is the cure-all you didn’t know you needed. Known in many families as Pastina Soup, it’s like wrapping yourself in the warmest blanket while someone rubs your back and tells you everything’s going to be okay. The simple ingredients come together to create something so comforting, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re under the weather or just craving that nostalgic taste of home, this soup is here to save the day.

I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has been my go-to when my whole family was battling sniffles or just needed a little cozy pick-me-up. The smell alone brings me back to my Nonna’s kitchen, where this soup was the answer to everything from a bad day to a bad cold. And trust me, once you taste it, you’ll see why people call it ‘Italian Penicillin’—it just has that magical way of making you feel instantly better!

Your Grocery List

Here’s everything you need to bring this cozy bowl of goodness to life:

• 8 cups of chicken broth (homemade if you can, but store-bought works too!)
• 1 cup of pastina (or substitute with orzo or mini shells if you can’t find it)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon of butter (optional, but adds that extra creamy touch!)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, if you’re feeling fancy!)

Choosing the Perfect Pastina for Your Soup

Pastina means “little pasta” in Italian, and it comes in the cutest shapes—stars (stelline), tiny balls (acini di pepe), or even alphabet letters. If you can’t find pastina at your local store, don’t worry. Orzo, ditalini, or even mini shells will work beautifully. The key is using a small pasta that cooks quickly and gives you that cozy, spoonful-of-comfort vibe.

Techniques and Tips for the Coziest Bowl

Here’s where the magic happens: whisking the eggs into the hot broth creates those silky, comforting ribbons that make this soup so special. The key is to temper the eggs by whisking a little hot broth into them first—this prevents them from scrambling and gives you that smooth, dreamy texture. And don’t skimp on the Parmesan—it adds that rich, savory depth that makes every bite feel like it’s hitting the spot.

Make It Even Better

Want to take your Italian Penicillin Soup to the next level? Stir in a little butter at the end for a creamier finish, or add shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re craving something heartier. You can even toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrients—perfect when you’re trying to sneak in some veggies for the kiddos! Leftovers? They reheat like a dream. Just add a splash of broth to loosen things up, and you’re good to go.

What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty Italian bread or a simple green salad. If you’re in the mood for a full Italian feast, serve it alongside a classic Margherita pizza or a glass of crisp white wine. And don’t forget dessert—a creamy tiramisu or a simple biscotti will round out the meal beautifully.

How to Store Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta will soak up some of the broth, so when you reheat it, just add a splash of chicken stock to bring it back to life. It’s just as comforting the next day—if not more!

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 cozy bowls

Fun Facts About Italian Penicillin Soup

Did you know that Pastina Soup is often one of the first solid foods Italian babies eat? It’s that gentle, comforting, and nourishing! Plus, it’s been lovingly dubbed ‘Italian Penicillin’ for its magical ability to make you feel better when you’re sick—just like chicken soup, but with an Italian twist!

Allergen Warnings and Substitutions

This recipe contains eggs, dairy (Parmesan cheese), and gluten (pastina). For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Gluten-free? Swap in your favorite gluten-free small pasta. And for a vegan twist, you can leave out the eggs and add more veggies or even a splash of oat milk for creaminess.