Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Name: Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned); 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup dry pasta (any small shape); 1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

Published: February 12, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this soup is ready to serve in under an hour.
Flavorful Blend: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a delightful taste that will please everyone at the table.
Versatile Dish: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences, making it customizable for various diets.
Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring it keeps you full and satisfied.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even better for next-day meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Stirring spoon
Measuring cups
Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
Stirring spoon: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned)
1 pound ground beef
4 cups beef broth

For the Pasta

1 cup dry pasta (any small shape)

For the Beans

1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

How to Make Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Once the beef is browned, add in the diced tomatoes along with beef broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

Step 3: Incorporate Pasta

Next, add your dry pasta. Allow it to cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Mix in Kidney Beans

After the pasta is cooked, gently stir in the kidney beans. Let them warm through for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup! It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something hearty.

How to Serve Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup is an opportunity to enhance its flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Accompanied by Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a deliciously crunchy side.
Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette can be perfect for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Cheese

Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, salty flavor.
Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can add creaminess and extra heartiness.

Served with Salad

Caesar Salad: Pair with a classic Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast to the soup’s warmth.
Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can provide a crisp texture.

How to Perfect Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best results with your Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips.

Use quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality tomatoes and broth will enhance the overall flavor significantly.
Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify spices like oregano or thyme based on your personal preference.
Don’t overcook pasta: Add the pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors and create a more robust taste.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup well.

Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make an irresistible side.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a filling accompaniment.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition to your table.
Cheese Toasties: Melty cheese between crispy bread pairs perfectly with warm soup.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their soup properly. Always taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Cook it separately and add it just before serving.
Not using enough broth: A common mistake is not adding enough liquid. Ensure your soup has a good broth-to-solid ratio for the best flavor.
Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can affect the overall taste. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Forget to drain beans: Not rinsing your canned beans can lead to excess sodium in your soup. Always drain and rinse them before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just leave some space at the top of the container since it will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help you make this dish even better.

What type of pasta works best in Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work best as they hold onto the broth and flavors.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I add more vegetables to my Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can easily add carrots, celery, or spinach during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Try making it today for a delicious meal that warms you from within!

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