Systems are provided for scaling a network element without needing to re-cable line modules and fabric modules. A scalable fabric assembly includes a plurality of fabric modules, each fabric module having a plurality of ports; a plurality of line modules, each line module having a first set of ports configured to connect with the plurality of fabric modules and a second set of ports configured to connect with client equipment; and a plurality of Fabric Expansion Panels (FEPs) disposed between the plurality of fabric modules and the plurality of line modules and connected to the plurality of ports of each of the plurality of fabric modules and connected to the first set of ports, wherein each of the plurality of FEPs include internal connectivity that supports fan out between the plurality of fabric modules and the plurality of line modules based on a current stage.