Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is the perfect dish for cozy nights. This hearty soup is not only a comforting meal but also a healthy, lightened-up version of the classic Olive Garden favorite. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s great for family dinners or meal prep. Whether you need a filling lunch or a warm dinner, this recipe has everything you need to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich broth.
• Versatile Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free or adjust the beans to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fiber, this soup is both nutritious and filling.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving that rich flavor without constant monitoring – just set it and forget it!
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors in your soup.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (avocado or grapeseed oil work as well)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3/4 pound extra-lean ground turkey
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper chili flakes (optional)

Vegetables & Beans

• 2 celery ribs (chopped)
• 2 large carrots (chopped)
• 3 cups homemade or canned tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes (undrained, preferably fire roasted or Italian style)
• 1/2 cup homemade beef stock or good quality no-salt beef broth
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned kidney beans
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned Great Northern beans
• 2 medium zucchini (chopped)

Pasta & Seasoning

• 1/4 cup dry uncooked Ditalini pasta or other small pasta (use gluten-free or leave out entirely if preferred)
• sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (to taste)
• water (as needed to thin out soup to desired consistency)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables and measure out the spices so they are ready when you need them.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions become translucent.
3. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned turkey mixture into your slow cooker:
* Add celery, carrots, zucchini, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
* Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker:
* Set it on low for about 4 hours.
* If needed, add water during cooking to reach desired soup consistency.

Step 5: Add Pasta Before Serving

About 20 minutes before serving:
* Stir in uncooked Ditalini pasta.
* Cover again until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once ready:
1. Remove bay leaf from soup.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
3. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this delicious Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup at your next gathering or cozy evening at home!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

Serving your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that can elevate the meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some suggestions for how to present this comforting dish in a way that will impress family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a vibrant touch and added flavor.
• Basil leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious dip into the soup.
• French baguette: Slice and offer alongside to soak up the rich broth.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Grated cheese: Provide grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for guests who enjoy a cheesy addition.
• Croutons: Crispy croutons add texture and contrast to the smooth soup.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Rustic bowls: Present the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel that enhances the dining experience.
• Ladle directly from the pot: Keep it casual by letting guests serve themselves straight from the slow cooker.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

To create an exceptional Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup, consider these handy tips. They can help you enhance flavors and improve the overall texture of your dish.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh herbs and spices to amplify the flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your taste.
• Quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and broth; they make a significant difference in taste.
• Cook low and slow: Allow enough time for all ingredients to meld together beautifully—four hours on low is ideal.
• Adjust consistency: If the soup is too thick, add water or extra broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Taste as you go: Regularly taste during cooking and adjust seasonings as needed for balance.
• Let it sit: If possible, let the soup rest after cooking for an hour before serving. This allows flavors to deepen.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing make a classic pairing.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a satisfying addition.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and excitement at the table.
6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta baked into cakes provides a comforting option that pairs well with soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}, avoiding common pitfalls can help you achieve the perfect dish.

• Bold phrase: Not using enough seasoning. A well-seasoned soup is key to a flavorful result. Don’t be shy with herbs and spices; taste as you go.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the pasta. If you add pasta too early, it may become mushy. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Bold phrase: Skipping fresh herbs. Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Always garnish your soup just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring consistency. If your soup is too thick, add water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Adjust according to your preference.
• Bold phrase: Using low-quality canned tomatoes. Opt for high-quality fire-roasted or Italian-style tomatoes for deeper flavor. They make a significant difference in taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually around 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}.

How do I make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} vegetarian?

You can replace turkey with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Can I use other types of beans in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match beans according to your preference, such as black beans or pinto beans.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}?

You can add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers and adjust spices based on your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or omitting the pasta altogether.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you up and fills you up. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty bowl that’s sure to satisfy!