Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

This Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this hearty soup warms you from the inside out. With its rich flavors from ground beef, beans, and vegetables simmered to perfection, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Convenient preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Hearty and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is a filling meal that will keep you satisfied.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta types based on what’s available.
• Easy cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
• Family-friendly: This recipe appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. They’ll help make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for easy, hands-off cooking. You can set it and forget it while you go about your day.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound extra lean ground beef (browned and drained)
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14-16 oz, with juice)
• 1 can kidney beans (14-15 oz, rinsed and drained)
• 1 can white beans (14-15 oz, rinsed and drained)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 jar tomato-basil marinara sauce (24-26 oz)
• 1 1/2 tsp oregano

For Seasoning

• 3/4 tsp hot pepper sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Serving

• 1 1/4 cups dry pasta (fusilli, shells, or ditalini, cooked separately)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the ground beef until browned.
• Drain excess fat and transfer to a 6-7 quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

• Finely chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
• Add them to the slow cooker with the browned beef.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Add diced tomatoes with juice, kidney beans, white beans, beef broth, and marinara sauce to the slow cooker.
• Stir in oregano, hot pepper sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

• Cover the slow cooker.
• Cook on LOW for 5-7 hours or until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Cook Pasta Separately

• About 15–20 minutes before soup is done, cook dry pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Stir cooked pasta into the soup.
• Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
• Ladle soup into bowls; garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

Serving Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and making the dining experience special. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the soup’s richness with a nutty flavor.
• Croutons: Add a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the soup perfectly.
• Crusty Baguette: Ideal for dunking and soaking up every last drop of the hearty broth.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can be enjoyed alongside or used to scoop up the soup.

Create a Complete Meal

• Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the meal and adds freshness.
• Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses for an elegant touch that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

Perfecting your Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli will ensure every bowl is bursting with flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; don’t hesitate to tweak salt, pepper, or hot sauce for your preferred heat level.
• Cook Pasta Separately: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the slow cooker while allowing it to retain its shape.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

To round out your meal featuring Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its hearty nature perfectly.

1. Italian Salad: A mix of greens, olives, and Italian dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light yet flavorful bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring depth and color to your plate.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa add an extra layer of heartiness to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables creates a flavorful appetizer before the main course.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters add texture and deliciousness, pairing wonderfully with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Always cook and drain it before adding to the slow cooker.
• Using Canned Ingredients Without Rinsing: Not rinsing canned beans can make your soup too salty. Always rinse and drain them for the best taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables. Stick to the recommended cooking time for optimal texture.
• Not Pre-cooking Pasta: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the slow cooker may result in soggy noodles. Cook pasta separately and stir in just before serving.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Each ingredient brings its own flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: Comfort in Every Spoonful

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli.

How can I customize Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli?

You can easily customize this dish by adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken is also a great option.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match beans based on your preference. Black beans or chickpeas work well too!

Is Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli healthy?

This dish is packed with lean protein and fiber from beans, making it a nutritious option for dinner. You can make it healthier by reducing salt and using whole grain pasta.

What should I serve with Pasta Fagioli?

Serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this one-pot meal is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!

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Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Discover the comforting warmth of Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli, a delightful soup that brings together hearty ground beef, nutritious beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy recipe requires minimal prep time; simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result is a savory bowl of goodness that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul with every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound extra lean ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14–16 oz)
• 1 can kidney beans (14–15 oz)
• 1 can white beans (14–15 oz)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 jar tomato-basil marinara sauce (24–26 oz)
• 1 1/4 cups dry pasta (fusilli, shells, or ditalini)
• 1 1/2 tsp oregano
• 3/4 tsp hot pepper sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat and transfer to a slow cooker.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, white beans, beef broth, marinara sauce, oregano, hot pepper sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours until vegetables are tender.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
6. Stir cooked pasta into the soup just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 to 7 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg