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

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delightful dish that warms the soul. This wholesome soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Enjoy the rich flavors and nutritious ingredients that make this dish a standout choice any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup will fill you up without weighing you down, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it in your slow cooker.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich beans, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this wonderful soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency during prep time.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing and dicing quick and easy, reducing prep time significantly.

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)

For the Vegetables

• 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)
• 2 medium zucchini (chopped)

For Flavor

• 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

For the Beans and Pasta

• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned kidney beans
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned Great Northern beans
• 1/4 cup dry uncooked Ditalini pasta or other small pasta (use gluten-free or leave out entirely if preferred)

To Finish

• 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 the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your vegetables. Chop the onion, celery, carrots, zucchini, and garlic. Drain and rinse the canned beans.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and ground turkey. Cook until turkey is browned. Stir in minced garlic and chili flakes if using.

Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned turkey mixture into your slow cooker. Add chopped celery, carrots, zucchini, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef stock, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, fennel seeds, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, and uncooked pasta.

Step 4: Season and Cook

Season with salt and pepper. Pour in enough water to cover ingredients if needed. Stir well. Set your slow cooker on low for about 4 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with balsamic vinegar if desired. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup!

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

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth, creating a satisfying combination.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and freshness to the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bowl.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want an extra savory touch. It melts beautifully into the warm soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad, to balance the meal’s richness and add refreshing crunch.

In Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual bowls or rustic mugs. This makes it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

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

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup takes just a few thoughtful steps. Follow these tips for best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your soup significantly. Always choose firm, vibrant produce.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures that every bowl is perfectly seasoned.

• Cook low and slow: Allow the soup to cook on low heat for the entire duration. This melds flavors beautifully and results in tender ingredients.

• Add pasta later: If using Ditalini pasta, consider adding it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to customize your spice blend, adding more chili flakes or Italian herbs according to your taste preferences.

• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to enjoy again.

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

Complementing your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment that pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a nice crunch that balances out the heartiness of the soup.

3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make fresh, flavorful bites.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a nutritious side that complements this comforting soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional flavor and nutritional value while being easy to prepare alongside the soup.

6. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick cheese quesadillas are great for dipping into the soup, providing a cheesy delight that everyone will enjoy.

7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for a delightful starter before diving into your hearty soup.

8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly provides freshness that brightens up this cozy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Boldly skip the sauté step. Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Skipping this can result in a bland soup.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker. Too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe amounts for optimal results.
• Neglecting to season properly. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout cooking. This ensures a well-balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality broth. A good quality beef broth makes a significant difference in taste. Invest in a brand you trust or make your own for richer flavor.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time. Adding uncooked pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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

• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute other canned beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional ditalini pasta or omit it entirely.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can include vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to cook?

This recipe takes about 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile—customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your taste!