If you’re looking for a healthy, budget-friendly, and family-approved meal, this Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup hits every mark. It’s hearty, filling, full of flavor, and comes together in just one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax with your loved ones.

This dish brings the comfort of Italian home cooking right to your table, with pantry staples like cannellini beans, tomatoes, pasta, and herbs combining into a deeply satisfying bowl of soup. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup is an ideal choice.

 

 

What Is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli (pronounced pah-sta eh fah-joh-lee) literally means “pasta and beans” in Italian. While the name may sound simple, this dish is anything but basic. When seasoned with Italian herbs and simmered in a rich tomato and chicken broth base, it transforms into a comforting stew with layers of savory, aromatic flavor.

It’s one of those traditional Italian meals that’s both rustic and wholesome — perfect for those who want something nutritious without sacrificing taste.

 

 

Ingredients for Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 can cannellini beans (with liquid)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked spinach pasta (or pasta of your choice)

💡 Tip: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.

 

 

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup (Step-by-Step)

1. Sauté Vegetables
   In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onions. Cook until onions are soft and translucent.
2. Add Seasonings
   Stir in garlic, dried parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes to release the aromatics.
3. Add Liquids & Tomatoes
   Pour in tomato sauce, chicken broth, and chopped tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Add Pasta
   Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Add Beans
   Stir in the can of cannellini beans, including the liquid. Simmer until the soup is fully heated through.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread, breadsticks, or alongside a simple green salad.

🧠 Pro Tip: To avoid soggy leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add to each bowl when serving.

 

 

What to Serve with Pasta Fagioli

Warm garlic bread or focaccia

Roasted vegetables or grilled zucchini

Caesar or arugula salad

A deli-style sandwich for a heartier combo

 

 

Why This Recipe Works

High in fiber & protein from beans and pasta

Cost-effective ingredients great for meal planning

Appeals to users searching for:

Quick healthy dinner ideas

One-pot soup recipes

Vegetarian-friendly meals

Comfort food on a budget

 

 

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. It’s nutritious, budget-conscious, easy to make, and packed with flavor — exactly what home cooks need for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Make it once, and you’ll find it quickly becomes part of your regular dinner rotation. Serve it with love, and don’t forget the Parmesan!