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

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delightful and hearty dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. This healthy recipe offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for busy weekdays. With its rich tomato base, tender beans, and flavorful turkey, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, it can easily adapt to gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a nourishing meal ready to cook while you go about your day.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and ground turkey, this soup is sure to keep you satisfied and energized.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or pasta types to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure everything goes smoothly while preparing this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing the flavors while you focus on other tasks.
• Chopping board: A must-have for safely preparing your ingredients without damaging your countertops.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of soup without any mess.

Ingredients

For the Soup 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)
• 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)

For Flavoring

• 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 Added Texture

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

To Taste

• 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 preparing all your veggies and meat:
1. Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and zucchini.
2. Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Rinse the canned beans under cold water.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the olive oil.
2. Once hot, add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add all prepared ingredients into your slow cooker:
1. Transfer the browned turkey into the slow cooker.
2. Include chopped vegetables, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, seasonings, beans, and pasta.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker:
1. Cover with a lid.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Before serving:
1. Taste the soup; adjust salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar as needed.
2. If it’s too thick, add water to reach desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls:
1. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley before enjoying!

Now you’re ready to indulge in this comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

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

Serving Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its hearty flavors and making it a delightful meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant touch.
• Add basil leaves: A few fresh basil leaves can enhance the aromatic flavors of the soup.

Accompanying Bread

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

Toppings

• Grated Parmesan cheese: While avoiding animal-derived products, consider using a vegetarian alternative for a cheesy finish.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle extra red pepper chili flakes on top just before serving.

Salad Pairing

• Mixed greens salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Caesar-style salad: For added flavor, serve a Caesar-style salad using plant-based ingredients.

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

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup ensures every bowl is packed with flavor. Follow these handy tips for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will bring out better flavors than canned ones. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference, but remember the broth may already contain salt.
• Cook low and slow: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for several hours. This helps develop deep flavors and tenderizes the vegetables.
• Consider pasta timing: Add pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from getting too soft or mushy.
• Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for varied textures and tastes; black beans or lentils work well too.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day as flavors meld!

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

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup can create a more complete meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make a great accompaniment for sopping up soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella (or dairy-free cheese), tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and bell peppers offer additional nutrition and flavor variety.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a healthy side option.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, veggies, and spices can be a hearty addition alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that might affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: If you skip browning the turkey and sautéing the onions and garlic, your soup may lack depth of flavor. Always take a few extra minutes to sauté these ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: A bland broth can lead to a lackluster soup. Opt for high-quality homemade or low-sodium broth for the best taste.

• Adding Pasta Too Early: If you add pasta at the beginning, it may become mushy. Instead, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.

• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Different brands of canned tomatoes and broth have varying salt levels. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Overcooking Vegetables: Adding delicate vegetables like zucchini too early can lead to mushiness. Add them in the last hour of cooking for better texture.

• Not Using Enough Liquid: If your soup is too thick, it can be unappetizing. Ensure you add enough water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best flavor and texture.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup:

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

This recipe is a hearty Italian soup made with ground turkey, beans, vegetables, and pasta cooked slowly for deep flavors, inspired by Olive Garden’s version.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether if you prefer a lower carb option.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}?

The total cooking time is approximately 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in your slow cooker.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to swap in different beans or add more vegetables based on your preferences.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with lean protein from turkey and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option.

How can I enhance the flavor of my soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano near the end of cooking for an aromatic boost!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows for many customizations—like adding extra veggies or using different types of beans. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

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

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Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that brings warmth and flavor to your family table. This easy-to-make soup combines lean ground turkey, tender beans, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato base. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, this recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable for gluten-free diets. With its blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, every bowl offers a satisfying experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3/4 pound extra-lean ground turkey
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 celery ribs (chopped)
• 2 large carrots (chopped)
• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 1 can diced tomatoes (28-ounce)
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned kidney beans
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned Great Northern beans
• 2 medium zucchini (chopped)
• 1/4 cup dry uncooked Ditalini pasta or other small pasta (use gluten-free or leave out entirely if preferred)

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Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables by chopping the onion, celery, carrots, zucchini, and mincing the garlic.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the ground turkey until fully cooked.
3. Transfer the turkey to your slow cooker and add all prepared vegetables and canned ingredients along with broth and seasonings.
4. Cook on low for approximately 4 hours or until vegetables are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning before serving with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg