Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty, comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for busy days. This slow-cooked version brings together tender beans, vegetables, ground meat, and pasta in a rich tomato-based broth. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal one-pot meal that simmers to perfection in your crock pot.
The beans (“fagioli”) and pasta create a satisfying, protein-rich soup that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this cozy soup is budget-friendly, filling, and packed with rustic Italian flavor in every spoonful. Serve with crusty bread for a full meal.
Pasta Fagioli (pronounced pasta fah-joh-lee) is a comforting Italian soup made with beans (fagioli), pasta, vegetables, and sometimes ground meat. This slow cooker version is perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or when you want a hearty, one-pot meal ready with minimal hands-on time.
Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli Soup
Description
Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting, slow-cooked Italian-inspired dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, ground meat, and a rich tomato broth.
This hearty soup simmers for hours in the crock pot, allowing the flavors of garlic, herbs, and vegetables to meld beautifully.
It's perfect for cold weather and makes a satisfying, budget-friendly meal. Serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness.
Pasta Fagioli, meaning "pasta and beans," is both nourishing and delicious, making it a family favorite. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Brown the Meat (Optional)
If using ground beef or sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess fat and transfer to the crock pot. This step boosts flavor but can be skipped for a vegetarian version.
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Add Vegetables and Beans
To the crock pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, both types of beans, crushed and diced tomatoes (with juices), and browned meat (if using).
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Season and Add Broth
Sprinkle in basil, oregano, thyme, pepper, and a bit of salt. Pour in the broth, stir everything together, and cover.
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Cook
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Low setting: 6–8 hours
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High setting: 3–4 hours
The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors will be well developed.
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Add Pasta
About 20–30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry pasta. Cover again and cook on high until pasta is tender (15–20 minutes depending on the pasta shape). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Note: If you plan to have leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
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Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. You can add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 370kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 50mg17%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 24g48%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pasta Fagioli (pronounced "pasta fazool") is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and often ground meat, all simmered in a tomato-based broth.
Making it in a Crock Pot (slow cooker) takes the stress out of cooking and allows the flavors to deepen beautifully.
Here's how to make your Pasta Fagioli even better with smart tips and tricks, and how to serve it for maximum comfort and flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli
1. Brown the Meat First
While Crock Pots are great for "dump-and-go" meals, browning your ground beef or Italian sausage before adding it to the slow cooker adds deep umami flavor and a better texture. Sauté it with onions and garlic for the best start.
2. Use Two Types of Beans
Traditional Pasta Fagioli uses a mix of kidney beans and cannellini beans (or great northern beans). This adds variety in texture and nutrition. Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and prevent clouding the broth.
3. Don’t Add the Pasta Too Early
If you add the pasta at the beginning, it will become mushy. Instead, cook the pasta separately and stir it in during the last 15–20 minutes or just before serving. You can even keep it on the side to store leftovers better (more on that below).
4. Boost with Broth & Seasonings
Use low-sodium beef or vegetable broth as the base. Add Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes, oregano, and a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine for richness. A Parmesan rind simmered in the Crock Pot also infuses amazing depth.
5. Veggies Matter
Dice carrots, celery, onions, and zucchini finely so they cook evenly and melt into the soup. You can also toss in a handful of spinach or kale near the end for added color and nutrition.
Pasta Tips & Tricks
Use Small Pasta Shapes
Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are best. They're the right size to scoop with beans and veggies and hold up well in soup.
Cook Pasta Separately for Storage
For leftovers, it's best to store pasta separately so it doesn’t soak up all the broth. Add it only when reheating. This trick prevents mushy textures and preserves the soup’s integrity.
Go Gluten-Free If Needed
Use gluten-free pasta if serving someone with dietary restrictions. Cook it al dente and stir it in just before eating.
Serving Ideas to Elevate Your Soup
- Top with Fresh Parmesan
A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds saltiness and depth. You can also add shaved Parmesan or even a small dollop of ricotta. - Add Crusty Bread
Serve with garlic bread, focaccia, or a crusty artisan loaf for dipping. The soup’s tomato base pairs beautifully with bread, soaking up the broth. - Offer Toppings Bar
Let guests customize with toppings like:- Chopped parsley or basil
- Crushed red pepper
- Grated cheese
- A swirl of olive oil or pesto
- Serve in Bread Bowls
For a special presentation, hollow out small sourdough boules and ladle the hot soup inside. It’s cozy, fun, and fully edible. - Pair with a Side Salad
Serve with a light Italian salad (greens, olives, tomatoes, vinaigrette) to balance the hearty soup.
Final Crock Pot Tips
- Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible, especially near the end.
- Adjust seasoning at the end — slow cooking mutes salt and spice, so taste before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Serve with: Crusty Italian bread, garlic bread, or a green salad.
- For spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Tips for Success
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Add greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes.
- For a creamy twist: Add a swirl of heavy cream or grated cheese just before serving.
- Bean swap: Use pinto beans or black beans if you don’t have cannellini.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup without pasta for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
- Reheat: On the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth as needed.
Variations
- Spicy Pasta Fagioli: Add chopped jalapeño or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Creamy Pasta Fagioli: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream.
- Cheesy Bake: Pour leftovers into a casserole dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly.
Why Use a Crock Pot?
The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful, rich soup. It’s great for meal prep, and you can set it in the morning and return to a warm, homey dish in the evening—no babysitting required.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Serve with: Crusty Italian bread, garlic bread, or a green salad.
- For spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Tips for Success
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Add greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes.
- For a creamy twist: Add a swirl of heavy cream or grated cheese just before serving.
- Bean swap: Use pinto beans or black beans if you don’t have cannellini.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup without pasta for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
- Reheat: On the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth as needed.
Variations
- Spicy Pasta Fagioli: Add chopped jalapeño or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Creamy Pasta Fagioli: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream.
- Cheesy Bake: Pour leftovers into a casserole dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly.
Why Use a Crock Pot?
The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply flavorful, rich soup. It’s great for meal prep, and you can set it in the morning and return to a warm, homey dish in the evening—no babysitting required.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a must-have in your comfort food rotation. It’s budget-friendly, flexible, and packed with nutrients from vegetables, beans, and broth.
Whether you’re feeding a family or batch-cooking for the week, this cozy dish delivers warmth in every spoonful.
Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a must-have in your comfort food rotation. It’s budget-friendly, flexible, and packed with nutrients from vegetables, beans, and broth.
Whether you’re feeding a family or batch-cooking for the week, this cozy dish delivers warmth in every spoonful.
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Pasta Fagioli (pronounced “pasta fazool”) is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta, beans (fagioli), vegetables, and sometimes ground meat in a tomato-based broth.
The Crock Pot version simplifies the cooking by allowing all the ingredients to simmer slowly, resulting in a rich and comforting dish.
What kind of beans and pasta should I use?
Cannellini or Great Northern beans are commonly used for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Red kidney beans are another popular choice.
For pasta, ditalini is the most traditional, but elbow macaroni, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well too. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. For a vegan version, ensure there are no animal-based ingredients in the broth and skip any cheese toppings. You can boost flavor with extra herbs like basil, oregano, and a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
How long does it take to cook in the Crock Pot?
On low heat, Pasta Fagioli takes about 6 to 8 hours; on high, around 3 to 4 hours. Add pasta during the last 30 minutes regardless of the setting to keep it from turning mushy. It also stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
