Weeknight Pasta Fagioli

Introduction

When you’re craving a warm, cozy bowl of Italian comfort food but still want to stay true to your low-carb or bariatric lifestyle, this Weeknight Pasta Fagioli hits all the right notes. It’s everything you love about the classic—rich tomato broth, savory herbs, and hearty texture—but without the heavy carbs that usually come with traditional pasta and beans.

What makes this version extra special is that it’s tailored for quick weeknight dinners. It’s satisfying, protein-rich, easy to digest, and it won’t spike your carbs. With a few smart swaps like lean ground turkey, low-carb pasta, and controlled portions of beans, this dish fits beautifully into keto or post-bariatric plans. And bonus: it tastes even better the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This keto-friendly Pasta Fagioli is comforting, flavorful, and super easy to whip up after a long day. It offers:

• Low-carb goodness without sacrificing flavor
• Balanced macros, perfect for post-bariatric or keto goals
• A one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean
• Customizable ingredients, so you can tweak it for your preferences
• Meal-prep friendly, reheats like a dream for lunch the next day

Whether you’re cooking for one or the whole family, this is a dish everyone can get behind.

My Personal Experience

The first time I made this version, I was honestly skeptical. Could a low-carb Pasta Fagioli even come close to the original I grew up with? But wow—I was surprised by how rich the flavors came together. The turkey browned up perfectly, the broth was savory and herby, and the low-carb pasta soaked in all that goodness. I portioned it out for the next few days, and every bowl felt like a hug. This one’s been a weeknight lifesaver ever since.

Required Equipment

Large Pot or Dutch Oven

You’ll need something with a wide base and deep sides to handle the sautéing and simmering. I like using a heavy-bottomed pot to lock in those rich flavors and keep heat consistent.

Cutting Board & Sharp Knife

You’ll be chopping onions, celery, and carrots, so a stable cutting board and sharp knife make prep quicker and easier. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate the smooth glide when you’re in a rush.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula

For sautéing and stirring the pot—these help prevent scratching and let you scrape up those tasty browned bits from the bottom.

Measuring Cups & Spoons

You’ll want to keep portions balanced and macros in check, especially for beans and pasta. I keep these within reach for quick, accurate measuring.

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Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 tsp olive oil – for sautéing veggies and meat
• 1 lb lean ground turkey – lower fat, high protein; can sub with ground chicken or lean beef
• 1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
• 1 celery stalk, chopped – classic base flavor for soups
• 1 carrot, chopped – optional, but adds color and mild sweetness (omit for stricter keto)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning – brings classic herby flavor
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – the heart of the broth; no sugar added
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – keeps sodium in check
• ½ cup red kidney beans – use less for lower carbs, or swap for more cannellini
• ½ cup cannellini beans – creamy texture and protein; optional
• 1 cup low-carb pasta – elbows, penne, or rotini work; you can also sub with shirataki or zucchini noodles
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Substitution tip: Don’t want beans at all? Skip them entirely and double the ground turkey or add chopped spinach for volume and nutrients.

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How to Make Weeknight Pasta Fagioli

1. Heat oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot (if using) and sauté for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Add ground turkey and break it up as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink and slightly browned.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.
4. Lower heat to a simmer, then add beans. Cover and let the soup cook for 10–12 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Stir in low-carb pasta and cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes or until pasta is al dente. (If using an alternative like shirataki, add at the end.)
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips for This Recipe

• Use pre-chopped frozen veggies to save time on prep.
• If using shirataki noodles, rinse and sauté them before adding to remove the rubbery texture.
• Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered for a few minutes longer at the end.
• For more richness, stir in a spoon of parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.

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Optional Additions

• A dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat
• A tablespoon of grated parmesan stirred in at the end
• A handful of baby spinach added in the last 2 minutes for extra greens
• A splash of balsamic vinegar to add depth and a hint of tang

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Serving Ideas

Serve it in a bowl with a side of keto garlic bread or a crisp romaine salad. It’s a full meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a slice of low-carb focaccia. Also great as a starter for a bigger Italian-inspired keto dinner.

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Storage Recommendations

Let the soup cool completely before storing. It will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

To reheat: Warm it over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the turkey first, then add everything (except pasta) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, then stir in cooked pasta just before serving.

Can I skip the beans entirely?
Absolutely. It still tastes fantastic. You can bulk it up with extra meat, spinach, or chopped mushrooms.

Is it spicy?
Nope! But you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Approximate for 1 of 6 servings (based on ingredients listed):

• Calories: 245
• Total Carbs: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Net Carbs: 9g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 9g

I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make keto cooking even easier? Get a Keto Instant Pot Recipes Book filled with quick, delicious, and low-carb meals—perfect for busy days! Grab your copy today!