Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Make a simplified version of slow cooker pasta e fagioli, an Olive Garden favorite, right at home! Ground beef, pasta, and beans cooked for hours in a rich, savory broth smell just as good as it tastes. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, offering comfort with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: A delicious blend of beef, beans, and pasta in a savory broth that warms you up.
• Versatile Dish: Great for meal prep or feasting on cold days; it also makes excellent leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over hours.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning meat evenly before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious slow cooker pasta e fagioli:

Meat & Beans

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 15 ounces white cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 medium celery stalks (diced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)

Liquids & Seasonings

• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 32 ounces beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Pasta

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the 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 Slow Cooker

To a 6-quart slow cooker, add:
1. The cooked ground beef.
2. Diced carrots, celery, onion.
3. Crushed tomatoes and beef broth.
4. Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Cannellini beans and kidney beans.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Cover the slow cooker:
– Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.

Step 4: Add Pasta

30 minutes before the cook time is up:
1. Stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta.
2. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve in bowls topped with parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of slow cooker pasta e fagioli with family or friends!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience, as this dish offers rich flavors and hearty textures. Here are some great ways to present and enjoy your meal.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in deep bowls for a comforting feel.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and taste.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• Consider using mozzarella for a gooey texture that melts beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Try garlic bread for an extra flavor boost and crunch.

With a Salad

• Serve alongside a mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette for freshness.
• A Caesar salad can complement the flavors nicely.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

To make the best Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good quality beef broth enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the broth before serving; you can add more salt or pepper based on preference.
• Cook Low and Slow: For maximum flavor, cook on LOW setting rather than HIGH; it allows the ingredients to meld better.
• Add Vegetables Wisely: Include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted, this bread adds crunch and complements the soup’s flavors.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring brightness to your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a healthy balance to the meal.
4. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are fun to dip in the pasta fagioli.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in creamy dressing provide a classic pairing.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add variety and nutrition alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in less flavor. Always brown the meat first for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding ingredients: Adding too many ingredients can affect cooking times and texture. Stick to the recipe and adjust if needed.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting before serving can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings for the best flavor.
• Not following pasta cooking time: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Add it 30 minutes before cooking ends for perfect al dente pasta.
• Using the wrong broth: Using a broth that’s too salty or flavored can alter the dish. Opt for low-sodium beef broth for better control over flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

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

Reheating Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli that may help you out.

What is Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli?

Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta, slow-cooked for deep flavors.

Can I use different beans in my Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can substitute any variety of beans according to your preference, like black beans or pinto beans.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

How long can I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep and allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand. Give this easy recipe a try; your family will love it!