Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Warm and comforting, Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is your go-to recipe for any occasion. This hearty soup combines lean beef and a medley of vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With minimal effort, you can enjoy the rich flavors reminiscent of your favorite Italian restaurant, all from the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beef and beans, this soup provides substantial nutrition to keep you satisfied.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves 12, making it ideal for parties or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The key to this recipe, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours without constant supervision.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures precision in chopping vegetables, leading to even cooking and better texture in your soup.

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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

To Taste

• Salt and pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add:
– The browned ground beef
– Diced onion
– Chopped carrots
– Sliced celery
– Minced garlic
– Diced tomatoes
– Water
– Beef bouillon cubes
– Kidney beans
– Northern beans
– Oregano
– Basil
– Thyme
– Apple juice

Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook on Low Heat

Set your slow cooker to low, cover it, and let it cook for 6–8 hours. This allows all flavors to develop fully.

Step 4: Prepare Pasta Separately

About 15 minutes before serving:
Boil water in a pot on the stovetop. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once your soup has finished cooking, add the cooked pasta directly into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine and allow it to sit for an additional 15 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve hot with your favorite bread or salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair this hearty soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or Italian loaf works beautifully to soak up the savory broth.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving for a burst of color and flavor. It complements the Italian herbs already in the soup.

Alongside a Simple Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumber for freshness.

Topped with Grated Cheese

• For an extra touch of richness, serve each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a delicious salty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

In Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls can make it feel more special. Use colorful dishes to brighten up your table setting.

With a Side of Garlic Breadsticks

• Serve with soft garlic breadsticks for an indulgent treat. They are perfect for mopping up any leftover broth from your bowl.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

To make your Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli even better, consider these handy tips for perfection.

• Use fresh vegetables: Freshly diced onions, carrots, and celery enhance the flavor more than pre-packaged options.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. This ensures every bite is flavorful.

• Cook pasta separately: Cooking the pasta on the stovetop prevents it from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.

• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

• Freeze for later: This soup freezes well! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later on.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements any Italian meal perfectly, providing a crunchy texture alongside your soup.

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

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with breadcrumbs and herbs provide a rich flavor that pairs nicely with pasta fagioli.

5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables creates a delightful appetizer before diving into your main dish.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette brings additional protein and fiber while balancing out the meal’s heartiness.

7. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers comfort food vibes that match beautifully with Italian flavors.

8. Mediterranean Flatbreads: Soft flatbreads served warm can be used to scoop up soup or enjoyed on their own as an accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not Browning the Meat: Skipping this step can lead to less flavor in your soup. Always brown and drain the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Cook it separately until al dente and add it at the end of the cooking time.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can impact the overall taste. Use fresh vegetables and quality canned goods for a robust flavor.
• Cooking on High Instead of Low: Cooking on high may not allow flavors to develop properly. Stick to low heat for 6-8 hours for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli?

Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty soup made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and pasta, inspired by the famous restaurant dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or omit it entirely for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking time is approximately 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker, plus an additional 15 minutes after adding the pasta.

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different beans or use what you have available for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction on chilly days. Its versatility allows room for customization; feel free to add more vegetables or swap out proteins based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate—try this delightful recipe today!