Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Warm, savory, and filling, this Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch. Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic! This comforting soup is ideal for gatherings, family meals, or simply enjoying on a chilly day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just combine ingredients in the slow cooker for a hands-off cooking experience.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a flavorful broth that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Adjust the veggies or beans based on what you have on hand for a personal twist.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lean beef and beans, this recipe offers a great source of protein and fiber.
• Feeding a Crowd: With 12 servings, it’s perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will simplify your cooking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Large pot (for boiling pasta)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for convenient cooking without constant attention; just set it and forget it!
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting, making prep time faster.

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

For the Beans

• 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: Prepare Your Ingredients

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add:
1. Browned ground beef.
2. Diced onion, chopped carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic.
3. Diced tomatoes, water, beef bouillon cubes.

Step 3: Season and Cook

Add in:
– Kidney beans,
– Northern beans,
– Oregano,
– Basil,
– Thyme,
– Apple juice,
– Salt and pepper to taste.

Mix everything together well. Set your slow cooker on low heat for 6-8 hours.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately

About 15 minutes before serving:
1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente as per package instructions.
3. Drain the pasta.

Step 5: Final Touches

Add the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with soup and allow it to sit for another 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

This delicious soup is perfect for any occasion. Its warm, savory flavor pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or baguette for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich broth beautifully.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It adds a lovely creaminess and enhances the flavor.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the hearty soup, providing freshness and crunch.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish.

With Crackers or Breadsticks

• Pair with crunchy crackers or soft breadsticks for added texture. These are great for scooping up the soup!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

For the best results when making this soup, consider these helpful tips to enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup hearty without excess fat. This keeps it healthier while still satisfying.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. This ensures the flavors are just right for your palate.

• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They will increase nutrition and add color to the dish.

• Add More Broth if Needed: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water during cooking. This gives you more volume without compromising flavor.

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

Complement this comforting soup with delicious sides that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic accompaniment; its buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the rich soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing complements the heartiness of the pasta e fagioli.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring depth and sweetness to balance the savory notes of the soup.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed option; quinoa mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious side that complements the dish well.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, beans, and spices for a flavorful addition that echoes Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience when making this delicious soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef can lead to less flavor. Always brown it first for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Different brands of broth or bouillon can vary in saltiness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned goods can affect flavor. Choose high-quality tomatoes and beans for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the long cook time can result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow it to simmer for at least 6 hours on low for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli:

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily substitute ground beef with lentils or extra beans for a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

How do I thicken my soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry while heating.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any small pasta shape you prefer, but keep an eye on cooking time as different pastas may require different cooking times.

What should I serve with this soup?

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

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!