Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Make a simplified version of Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, an Olive Garden favorite, right at home! This hearty dish combines ground beef, pasta, and beans simmered for hours in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for various occasions, this recipe is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you sit back and relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, beans, and tomatoes creates a deliciously satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap in different types of pasta for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring that flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 medium celery stalks (diced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 32 ounces beef broth

Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Beans and Pasta

• 15 ounces white cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks until no longer pink.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

To a 6-quart slow cooker, add:
1. The cooked ground beef.
2. Carrots, celery, onion, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper.
3. Cannellini beans and kidney beans.

Step 3: Cook Long & Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Thirty minutes before the cook time is up, stir in uncooked ditalini pasta. Cover again and cook until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls topped with parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grated Cheese

• Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and makes the meal more satisfying.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley to provide a burst of color and freshness on top of the dish.

Side Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. This balance of flavors complements the richness of the soup.

Garlic Breadsticks

• Serve alongside garlic breadsticks for a delicious, buttery complement that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

To make your Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Brown the Meat Well: Browning the ground beef adds depth to the flavor profile. Don’t skip this step!
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: After cooking, taste your soup and adjust salt or pepper as needed for a perfect balance.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, cook it separately and add just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing adds crunch and flavor.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and caramelization that pairs beautifully with the soup.

3. Antipasto Platter
   Create an antipasto platter with olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer spread.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty side that’s easy to prepare in advance.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness that complements the richness of the soup.

6. Polenta Cakes
   Creamy polenta cakes fried until crispy can be a unique side that soaks up the flavors of the sauce nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef first can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always brown the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the cooker too much may prevent even cooking. Use a 6-quart slow cooker for this recipe to ensure everything cooks properly.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can result in bland soup. Always taste before serving and adjust salt or spices as necessary.

• Adding Pasta Too Early: If you add the pasta at the start, it may become mushy. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.

• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can lead to dry pasta and beans. Ensure you follow the broth measurements closely for a rich consistency.

• Ignoring Storage Tips: Improper storage can spoil your leftovers quickly. Follow storage guidelines to keep your soup fresh and delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli:

Can I use other types of meat?

You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for ground beef based on your preference!

How do I make this vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, use vegetable broth and omit the meat altogether. You can add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with this dish?

Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It makes for a hearty meal!

How long does it take to cook?

This recipe takes about 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is not just comforting but also versatile! You can customize it by adding different vegetables or swapping meats based on your taste preferences. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet delicious this recipe is!