Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Warm, savory, and packed with flavor, the Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. This comforting soup combines lean beef and a medley of beans, making it a hearty choice for any occasion. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll have a delightful dish ready to share in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates an authentic Italian taste that warms the soul.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein from beans and beef, this soup will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that pleases everyone.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for those busy days when you need a quick meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious pasta e fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Large pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors while minimizing hands-on time.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Large pot: Necessary for cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture before adding it to the soup.

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Ingredients

Warm, savory soup with hearty lean and vegetarian protein!

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef (browned and drained)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 3 cups water
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can northern beans

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 cup apple juice

For the Pasta

• 8 oz ditalini pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Drain any excess fat before adding it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine in Slow Cooker

Place all ingredients except pasta into the slow cooker:
* Add browned ground beef, diced onion, chopped carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, water, bouillon cubes, kidney beans, northern beans, oregano, basil, thyme, and apple juice.

Step 3: Cook Slowly

Set your slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

About 15 minutes before serving:
* Boil water in a large pot.
* Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir well and allow it to cook together for another 15 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls while hot. Enjoy your deliciously comforting Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance the meal experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh flavor and vibrant color.
• Parmesan Cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, salty finish.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with garlic breadsticks for a classic Italian touch.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a vinaigrette balance the hearty flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli will ensure a delicious meal every time. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef for better flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak oregano, basil, and thyme according to your taste preference.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade beef broth for a richer taste.
• Control Pasta Texture: Cook pasta separately to avoid mushiness; add it just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit after cooking to let flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, this bread is perfect for enjoying with the soup.
2. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables adds variety and depth.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese offer a delightful bite-sized treat.
6. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian bread is great for dipping into the rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta directly in the slow cooker can lead to mushiness. Boil it separately until al dente, then add it in later.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to fit your palate.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Always brown and drain before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium and improve flavor. This small step can enhance your dish significantly.
• Not allowing enough time for cooking: This soup benefits from longer cooking times. Aim for at least 6 hours on low for optimal flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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

Reheating Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup.

Can I make Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon cubes.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.

What type of beans should I use?

You can use kidney beans and northern beans as listed, or substitute them with black beans or chickpeas based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge overnight, and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is warm, filling, and perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and seasonal vegetables. Give this recipe a try; it’s a comforting dish that everyone will love!