Hearty Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli – The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Looking for a soul-warming, hearty meal that practically cooks itself and leaves your family asking for seconds? This Pasta Fagioli recipe is everything you need — rich, robust, filling, and freezer-friendly, it brings together bold Italian flavors and homestyle comfort in one glorious pot. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Fagioli

This isn’t your average bowl of soup — this is the kind of stick-to-your-ribs, flavor-packed Italian stew that satisfies like no other. It’s thick like chili, loaded with ground beef, tender beans, pasta, and vegetables, and simmered to perfection in a seasoned tomato broth. Best part? The slow cooker does all the work, giving you more time to enjoy your day.

Ingredients & Their Delicious Roles

2 lbs. ground beef – Adds rich, meaty flavor and hearty texture. Browned before slow cooking to develop deep flavor.
1 onion, chopped – Provides aromatic base notes and subtle sweetness.
3 carrots, chopped – Offers natural sweetness and color, balancing the acidity of tomatoes.
4 celery stalks, chopped – Adds savory depth and classic soup texture.
2 (28 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained – Bring tangy acidity and robust tomato flavor, with juice acting as part of the broth.
1 (16 oz) can red kidney beans, drained & rinsed – Adds earthy flavor and protein-rich texture.
1 (16 oz) can white kidney beans (cannellini), drained & rinsed – Balances the red beans with a creamier bite.
3 (10 oz) cans beef stock – Forms the savory, umami-packed backbone of the broth.
3 tsp oregano – Delivers classic Italian herb notes.
2 tsp black pepper – Adds just the right amount of heat and depth.
5 tsp parsley – Brightens and freshens the flavor profile.
1 tsp Tabasco sauce (optional) – Gives it a little kick without overwhelming heat. Totally optional!
1 (20 oz) jar spaghetti sauce – Enhances the tomato base with bold seasoning and a velvety finish.
8 oz pasta (ditalini or elbow work great) – Adds substance and thickens the stew as it cooks.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat. This step builds flavor and prevents your soup from becoming greasy.
Prep Your Slow Cooker
Add the browned beef to your slow cooker. Then toss in chopped onion, carrots, and celery. These veggies will soften and release flavor during the slow cooking process.
Add the Beans and Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes, both kinds of drained beans, beef stock, spaghetti sauce, and seasonings (oregano, pepper, parsley, and optional Tabasco).
Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook:
- Low for 7–8 hours, or
- High for 4–5 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors are beautifully melded.
Add Pasta Before Serving
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in your pasta. It will cook right in the soup, absorbing the delicious flavors.

Pro Tip: If you’re freezing part of the soup, only add pasta to the portion you’re eating now. Pasta can get mushy in the freezer.

Why This Recipe is a Favorite

Set-it-and-forget-it convenience – perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Feeds a crowd or fills your freezer – ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
Loaded with flavor – every spoonful is packed with beefy, herby, tomato-rich goodness.
Customizable heat level – add a dash of hot sauce for spice lovers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty warm bread or garlic toast to soak up the broth
Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or Italian chopped salad
Top with fresh Parmesan or shaved Asiago cheese

Pair with a glass of red wine (think Chianti or Cabernet) or sweet iced tea for a cozy meal that feels straight from Grandma’s kitchen.

Final Thoughts: A Simple, Delicious, No-Fail Crowd-Pleaser

This Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli recipe is your new go-to for comfort food that hits every note. It’s simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a big family, delivering a meal to a neighbor, or just craving a taste of home, this dish checks all the boxes.

Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a hit with everyone who tries it.

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and let this classic Italian-inspired dish do the work while you sit back and savor the aroma.