Bring the flavors of a classic Italian favorite to your table with this Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup. This hearty and flavorful soup is loaded with tender pasta, savory ground beef, beans, and fresh vegetables in a rich tomato broth. Perfectly seasoned and simple to make, this comforting dish is a delicious, filling meal for any day of the week. Enjoy the taste of Italy from the comfort of your home with every spoonful!

Ingredients

• 0.75 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (about 0.15 lb), diced
• 1 large carrot (about 0.15 lb), diced
• 2 celery stalks (about 0.13 lb), diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta or other small pasta
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
5. Add Beans and Pasta: Stir in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, and ditalini pasta. Simmer for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Notes

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.
• Make Ahead: The soup can be made in advance, but cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
• Adding Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some liquid, so add more broth when reheating if needed.

This Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup brings authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen with its savory blend of beans, pasta, and vegetables. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, this soup will quickly become a family favorite!