Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

You will love this flavorful Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe! This copycat Olive Garden pasta fagioli slow cooker soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep. It’s super easy to make, packed with hearty ingredients, and bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s a one-pot dish that warms you up on chilly days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each spoonful is filled with a rich blend of spices and fresh vegetables that enhance the taste.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own or pair it with a side salad or bread for a complete meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is not just filling; it’s also perfect for satisfying your cravings on cold days.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Let your crock pot do the work while you relax.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet (if not using a browning crock pot)
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for creating rich flavors while allowing the ingredients to meld together over time.
• Skillet: A great alternative to brown your meat and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.

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Ingredients

You will love this flavorful copycat Olive Garden pasta fagioli slow cooker soup recipe! It is super flavorful, extra hearty, and loaded with tasty ingredients.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1 pound extra lean ground beef
• 1 large onion (about 1½ cups)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth

For Flavoring

• 1 (15-ounce can) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram

For Beans

• 1 (15-ounce can) dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (15-ounce can) great northern beans (drained and rinsed)

For Serving

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

In a crockpot with a browning function or a skillet, cook the ground beef, onions, carrots, and celery until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Toast the Pasta

Toss dry ditalini with olive oil in a bowl. Microwave on 30% power, uncovered, stirring frequently for about 3 to 5 minutes or until at least half of the pasta is blistered.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Add all ingredients to the crock pot, including dry toasted pasta. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or until the pasta is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe that everyone will love!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

Serving your Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that enhances its hearty flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Add a flavorful twist with buttery garlic bread that complements the soup’s richness.

Garnished with Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan – Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for added creaminess.
• Crumbled Feta – For a tangy touch, crumbled feta adds a unique flavor contrast.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the soup’s heartiness.
• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with vinaigrette refreshes the palate.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

To ensure your Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving for optimal flavor.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make a delightful pairing.
2. Bruschetta – Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing crunch.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy complement to the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter – Include olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses for a variety of flavors.
6. Caprese Skewers – Skewers with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil are simple yet delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a great Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe involves some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the crock pot, it can become mushy. To avoid this, add the pasta during the last hour of cooking.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meat and vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take time to brown them first for a richer taste.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients can lower the cooking temperature. Allow your broth and canned tomatoes to come to room temperature before adding.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each slow cooker varies slightly in temperature. Always check your dish for doneness towards the end of cooking time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

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

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe:

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or leaner options.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, along with extra vegetables like bell peppers.

What can I serve with my Pasta Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers from my Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Crock Pot Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or using different meats. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, making it a must-try recipe!