If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort in every bite, look no further than this Pasta Fagioli recipe. Packed with protein, veggies, and savory Italian flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or freezing for a convenient weeknight meal. With its rich broth, tender pasta, and satisfying textures, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Let’s dive into the details so you can recreate this crowd-pleaser with ease!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Fagioli
Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with ground beef, beans, and vegetables, this dish is as filling as it is nourishing.
Slow Cooker Convenience: Minimal prep and long, hands-off cooking times make it ideal for busy days.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.
Customizable: Add or swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: The robust Italian flavors make this a hit for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients
Ground Beef (2 lbs.): Provides a rich, savory base for the soup.
Vegetables:
Onion, carrots, and celery add layers of flavor and texture.
Canned Goods:
Diced tomatoes (28 oz cans): Bring a tangy, fresh tomato taste.
Red and white kidney beans (16 oz cans): These provide protein and a hearty bite.
Broth and Seasonings
Beef Stock (3 cans): Creates a deep, savory base for the soup.
Oregano, Parsley, and Pepper: Classic Italian herbs enhance the overall flavor.
Tabasco Sauce (Optional): Adds a slight kick for spice lovers.
Extras
Spaghetti Sauce (20 oz jar): Adds richness and amplifies the tomato flavor.
Pasta (8 oz): Typically ditalini or small shells, cooked directly in the soup.
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Add the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
Add the undrained diced tomatoes, both types of drained and rinsed kidney beans, beef stock, oregano, pepper, parsley, and optional Tabasco sauce.
Pour in the jar of spaghetti sauce and stir to combine all ingredients.
Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook:
Low: 7–8 hours.
High: 4–5 hours.
This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and develop into a rich, hearty soup.
Add Pasta
About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the crockpot. Stir to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Allow the pasta to cook until tender (but not mushy).
Serve
Ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls and serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Fagioli
- Choose the Right Pasta
Opt for small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbows, or small shells, as they complement the chunky texture of the soup.
- Prevent Overcooking Pasta
Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Always add it in the last 30 minutes.
- Freezing Tip
If you plan to freeze portions, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it when reheating.
- Adjust the Consistency
If the soup becomes too thick, add extra beef stock or water to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Spice It Up
For a bolder flavor, increase the Tabasco sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for extra richness.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 399 kcal per serving
Protein: High protein content from beef and beans.
Fiber: Beans and vegetables add fiber for a balanced meal.
Why Pasta Fagioli Freezes Wonderfully
This soup freezes exceptionally well because the ingredients retain their texture and flavor after thawing. Here’s how to freeze it:
Let the soup cool completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove. If freezing without pasta, cook fresh pasta to add during reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Fagioli recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending Italian flavors with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying, hearty meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple for busy families and cozy nights alike. Pair it with warm bread, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the flavors of a timeless classic.