Name: Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli: 5 Hearty Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-492246H57M29S
Total time: PT-492246H57M29S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground Italian sausage); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or mix of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes); 4 cups beef broth (or broth of choice); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup ditalini pasta (uncooked); Optional: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan for garnish

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Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli has been a staple in my kitchen, especially on chilly evenings. This hearty Italian-inspired soup offers a perfect blend of flavors with pasta, beans, and vegetables simmered to perfection in your crockpot. The delightful aroma that fills your home while it cooks is simply irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this comforting dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

This slow cooker pasta dish is packed with benefits that make it a fantastic choice. First, it’s a one-pot meal, which means easy cleanup. Second, it’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it based on what you have in your pantry. Third, it’s a great way to sneak in vegetables, making it a family-friendly pasta fagioli meal. Fourth, it’s low in fat, fitting nicely into a healthy eating plan. Fifth, it’s a perfect comfort food pasta fagioli dish that warms you from the inside out. Finally, the slow cooker minestrone elements allow you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

Gather these items:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef (or ground Italian sausage)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or mix of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes)
4 cups beef broth (or broth of choice)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup ditalini pasta (uncooked)
Optional: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked.
Step 2: Transfer the cooked meat to a slow cooker. Add onion, carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, cannellini, and kidney beans.
Step 3: Season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Step 4: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked ditalini pasta. Continue cooking until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

Keep these in mind:

This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
You can substitute the beef with ground turkey or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste for a personalized touch.
For a thicker consistency, consider adding less broth or using a cornstarch slurry.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a filling meal.
Top with grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for added flavor.
Serve alongside a simple Italian salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

To store, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it an ideal slow cooker soup recipe with pasta for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

What is pasta fagioli?

Pasta fagioli is a traditional Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth. It’s a comforting meal that is both hearty and nutritious.

Can I make Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and simply reheat when you are ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you don’t overcook the pasta and add it close to the end of the cooking time. This keeps it tender without becoming mushy.

Variations of Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli You Can Try

If you want to mix it up, consider these variations:

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more beans or lentils.
Try using different types of pasta, such as shells or fusilli, for a fun twist.
Add greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

For more delicious recipes, check out Slow Cooker Korean Beef or Creamy Potato Soup.

For additional information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline.