A warm and satisfying bowl of Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. This recipe captures the flavors of the classic Italian-American soup, but with the convenience of a slow cooker!
Pasta fagioli, often referred to as “pasta fazool,” is an Italian soup made with beans, pasta, and vegetables. This version, inspired by the famous Olive Garden recipe, brings together tender beans, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth to create a meal that’s comforting and filling. What makes it even better? You can prepare this delicious soup in a slow cooker, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully without much effort. In this article, we’ll dive deep into how to make Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli, its ingredients, variations, and much more.
What is Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli?
Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is a simplified version of the classic Italian dish, made easy by using a slow cooker. Traditionally, pasta fagioli includes cannellini beans, kidney beans, ground beef, and a medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes. The dish is seasoned with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, making it a hearty and comforting meal.
The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you can set it and forget it, letting the flavors develop slowly over time. Unlike cooking it on the stove, the slow cooker method ensures a rich and robust flavor. It’s a dish perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or even a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the ingredients for the perfect Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli:
-
Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup lighter, but you can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
-
Vegetables: A combination of diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic gives the dish a hearty base and aromatic flavor.
-
Beans: A blend of cannellini and kidney beans adds texture and protein to the soup.
-
Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste form the rich, flavorful broth.
-
Pasta: Small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even small shells works best for pasta fagioli. They soak up the broth and give each bite a satisfying chew.
-
Herbs and spices: Dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary lend depth and fragrance to the soup.
-
Broth: Beef broth is traditionally used, but you can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian version.
-
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese is essential for topping the soup, adding a creamy richness to the dish.
The combination of these ingredients results in a rich and comforting soup that will fill you up with every spoonful.
How to Make Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli
Preparation Time
-
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 6 hours on low
-
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Directions:
-
Brown the Ground Beef: Begin by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
-
Add the Vegetables: Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic into the slow cooker. These vegetables will form the base of the soup.
-
Add Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the canned cannellini beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir them in to ensure everything is well mixed.
-
Season the Soup: Add in the dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth (or vegetable broth, if preferred). This liquid helps create the soup’s base and brings the flavors together as it cooks.
-
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Add Pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, add your small pasta to the slow cooker. This allows the pasta to cook in the flavorful broth without becoming mushy.
-
Finish with Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, give everything a good stir and taste for seasoning. If necessary, adjust the seasoning with a little extra salt or pepper. Serve the soup with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Easy Preparation: The slow cooker does most of the work for you, making this recipe a perfect choice for busy days or meal prep.
-
Comforting and Hearty: With its combination of beans, pasta, and flavorful broth, Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is the ultimate comfort food.
-
Customizable: This recipe is versatile. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, use vegetable broth, or add more vegetables to suit your tastes.
-
Perfect for Leftovers: Pasta fagioli gets better the next day! It’s a great make-ahead dish that you can enjoy throughout the week.
-
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, beans, and lean protein, this dish is a nutritious option that satisfies your hunger without weighing you down.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (which is likely, given how much this recipe makes!), here are some helpful tips for storage:
-
Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
-
Freezing: This recipe freezes well. Simply let the soup cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
-
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if necessary to loosen it up.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is delicious, there are many ways you can customize this dish to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Substitutions:
-
Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use extra beans or vegetables instead. You can also add some tofu or tempeh for protein.
-
Pasta Options: If you prefer gluten-free pasta, simply swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free ditalini or any other gluten-free variety.
-
Different Beans: Feel free to mix up the beans! White beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas are all great alternatives.
Regional Variations:
-
In some regions of Italy, pasta fagioli might be made with different types of beans, such as borlotti or fava beans. You can experiment with different bean varieties to add your own twist to this dish.
Creative Twists:
-
Spicy: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little kick.
-
Herbaceous: Try adding fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a burst of fresh flavor right before serving.
Pairings and Accompaniments
Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is a complete meal on its own, but here are some excellent sides and accompaniments to round out your dinner:
-
Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the broth.
-
Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
-
Wine: A non-alcoholic sparkling beverage or a simple iced tea pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
Pasta fagioli is similar to other Italian soups like minestrone or lentil soup. The main difference lies in the type of pasta used and the inclusion of beans. Unlike minestrone, which is more vegetable-based, pasta fagioli is bean-heavy, making it a great choice for those looking for a protein-packed dish. Similarly, while lentil soup is rich in legumes, pasta fagioli offers the added comfort of pasta, making it a more filling and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of pasta is used in pasta fagioli?
Traditionally, small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are used in pasta fagioli.
Can you overcook pasta in slow cooker?
Yes, it’s important not to overcook the pasta in the slow cooker, as it can become mushy. Add the pasta in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Is pasta fagioli healthy to eat every day?
Pasta fagioli can be a healthy dish when made with lean meat, plenty of vegetables, and beans, providing protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
What is the difference between pasta fagioli and pasta fazool?
“Pasta fagioli” is the Italian name, while “pasta fazool” is the Americanized version of the term. Both refer to the same hearty bean and pasta soup.
Best Time to Enjoy the Recipe
This comforting soup is perfect for lunch or dinner. Its hearty nature makes it a great choice for colder weather or a filling meal after a long day. Serve it as a family dinner or for casual gatherings with friends.
Presentation Tips
To make your Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli look even more inviting:
-
Serve it in deep bowls, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
-
Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
Olive Garden slow cooker pasta fagioli is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe makes it easier than ever to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy evening at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
For more interesting tips you can see here www.sotastyrecipe.com
And for recipes lovers you can check my friend’s blog here www.infloin.com