Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory beef come together in this Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, creating a deliciously hearty meal perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. With its rich tomato broth and a medley of flavorful ingredients, this recipe stands out as a delightful way to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, beans, and tomatoes creates a savory broth that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the beans.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for the week ahead; it reheats beautifully!
• Hearty and Filling: Each bowl is packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full longer.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups
• Wooden Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it!
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your veggies quickly and safely.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

Tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory beef simmer in a rich tomato broth for a delicious and hearty meal.

For the Meat Base

• 1 pound lean ground beef (browned)
• 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 onion (diced)

For the Broth

• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans beef broth (14.5-ounce each)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the Beans & Pasta

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat before transferring it to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked ground beef along with diced carrots, sliced celery, diced onion, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, cannellini beans, and kidney beans into your slow cooker.

Step 3: Set Your Slow Cooker

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The long cooking time allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Pasta

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked ditalini pasta. Cover the slow cooker again and cook until the pasta is tender—approximately 30 minutes more.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Before serving, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. This hearty dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Add Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair your pasta e fagioli with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

Include a Side Salad

• A simple green salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.

Offer Extra Seasoning

• Provide salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes on the side, allowing guests to season their bowls to their liking.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance this delicious dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute better flavor and texture than canned or frozen options.

• Customize Your Beans: Feel free to mix different beans, like pinto or black beans, for variety in taste and color.

• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of broth added.

• Experiment with Spices: Add other spices like crushed red pepper or garlic powder for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Complement your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli with these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal experience:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up the rich tomato broth.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender enhances the meal’s nutrition.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices make a colorful and tasty addition.

5. Caprese Salad
   Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.

6. Herbed Quinoa
   Light and fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs complements the hearty pasta fagioli nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Not browning the meat properly: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Always brown it until fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Skipping the vegetable prep: Dicing carrots, celery, and onion too large can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to cut them into small, uniform pieces for consistent texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Stir in uncooked pasta 30 minutes before serving for perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures a balanced flavor profile.
• Choosing the wrong broth: Using low-quality broth can diminish taste. Opt for a good-quality beef broth to enhance the overall flavor of your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is an Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically featuring vegetables and a flavorful broth.

Can I use different types of beans in this Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute with any canned beans you prefer, such as pinto or black beans for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe, replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

How long does it take to cook this recipe?

The cooking time is approximately 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for customizing with your favorite vegetables or beans. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that warms both body and soul!