Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

This Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe is your go-to for a warm, hearty meal that delivers comfort and flavor. Perfect for chilly days or cozy family gatherings, this dish combines tender pasta, nutritious beans, and vibrant vegetables in a savory tomato broth. The slow cooker does the hard work for you, making it an effortless option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty Comfort Food: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you up from the inside out.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, dinner can practically make itself.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A blend of herbs and spices ensures every spoonful bursts with authentic Italian flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Customize your soup by adding more vegetables or different types of beans according to your preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—this soup tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors develop slowly over several hours while you go about your day.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly before transferring it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This hearty, Italian-inspired soup features tender pasta, beans, and vegetables in a savory tomato broth. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, just like the version from Olive Garden!

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for a different flavor)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 cups beef broth

For the Vegetables and Seasonings

• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Finishing Touches

• 1 ½ cups uncooked small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 2 cups spinach (optional, for added color and nutrition)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

How to Make Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Brown the ground beef (or sausage), breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until fully cooked.
2. Drain any excess fat and transfer it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Beans

To the slow cooker:
– Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, kidney beans, and great northern beans.
– Ensure everything is well mixed for even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour into the slow cooker:
– Beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
– Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, thyme, bay leaf along with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover your slow cooker:
– Set it on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Let those flavors meld beautifully!

Step 5: Add the Pasta

About 30 minutes before serving:
– Stir in uncooked pasta. Keep an eye on it as it cooks in the rich broth.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

When pasta is tender:
– Stir in spinach if desired until wilted.
– Adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using. Enjoy with crusty bread!

How to Serve Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal. This comforting soup is versatile and pairs well with various sides, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread helps soak up the delicious broth, making each bite satisfying.

Add a Simple Salad

• A light garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

Top with Grated Cheese

• Adding grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances flavor and gives an appealing presentation.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread complements the Italian flavors and provides a crunchy texture contrast.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

To ensure your Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips for an even better result.

• Cook low and slow: For maximum flavor, let the soup simmer on low for 6 hours. This allows all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Use quality broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth for richer flavor in your soup.
• Avoid overcooking pasta: Stir in the pasta about 30 minutes before serving to keep it perfectly al dente.
• Customize veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.
• Taste before serving: Adjust seasoning just before serving to ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the hearty soup wonderfully.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh appetizer option.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while balancing the dish’s richness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make a filling side that pairs well with the soup.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side dish.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
8. Antipasto Platter: A variety of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offer diverse flavors that enhance the meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful broth. Always brown your meat first to develop rich flavors.
• Not rinsing beans: Not draining and rinsing canned beans can make your soup too salty. Make sure to rinse them for a fresher taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can turn it mushy. Stir it in about 30 minutes before serving for perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasonings: Underseasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving for maximum flavor.
• Forgetting to stir occasionally: Leaving the pasta undisturbed might cause it to stick together. Stir occasionally during cooking to keep everything well combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe:

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It offers lean protein while maintaining good flavor.

How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?

Cooking on low takes about 6 hours, while high setting cooks it in around 3 hours.

What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as excellent alternatives that still provide great flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are perfect as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for cozy evenings at home. Its blend of hearty ingredients makes it satisfying and versatile—great for lunch or dinner. You can easily customize this recipe with different vegetables or beans according to your preferences. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of this Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired soup perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This flavorful dish features tender pasta, protein-packed beans, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s an effortless meal that allows you to savor authentic Italian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Customize it with your favorite veggies and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 ½ cups uncooked small pasta (like ditalini)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer to a slow cooker.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, kidney beans, and great northern beans to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with juices. Sprinkle with dried herbs and seasonings; mix well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked pasta.
6. Once pasta is tender, adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours on low
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg