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

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right into your home. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week. With its rich blend of vegetables and lean turkey, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, this version is a healthier twist on the classic Olive Garden favorite, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with spices, veggies, and beans, this soup bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping pasta types to suit your dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week without sacrificing taste.
• Lightened-Up Classic: Enjoy the comforting essence of Pasta E Fagioli without the guilt.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for allowing the soup to simmer slowly, enhancing the flavors while you focus on other tasks.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even pieces for better cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado or grapeseed oil)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3/4 pound extra-lean ground turkey
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper chili flakes (optional)

For the Vegetables

• 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)
• 2 medium zucchini (chopped)

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 Protein and Beans

• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned kidney beans
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned Great Northern beans

For Finishing Touches

• 1/4 cup dry uncooked Ditalini pasta or other small pasta (use gluten-free or leave out entirely if preferred)
• 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 Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions, celery, carrots, zucchini, and garlic. Drain and rinse the beans. Measure out your spices.

Step 2: Sauté Ground Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step enhances flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer cooked turkey to the slow cooker. Add chopped onions, celery, carrots, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef stock/broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, fennel seeds, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, and zucchini. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Slowly

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set on low heat for about 4 hours or until vegetables are tender. If you prefer a shorter cook time, set on high for about 2 hours.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Seasoning

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked Ditalini pasta. Adjust thickness by adding water if necessary. Season with sea salt and black pepper according to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Balsamic Vinegar

Just before serving, stir in balsamic vinegar for an added depth of flavor. Remove the bay leaf before ladling soup into bowls.

Step 7: Garnish

Serve hot topped with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor!

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup that’s perfect for any occasion!

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

Serving your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup can elevate the dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor and texture.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Choose a baguette or sourdough for the best experience.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. The nutty flavor of the cheese adds a rich depth to each bowl.

A Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully. It adds freshness to the meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a flavorful twist. The buttery and garlicky notes will enhance your soup experience.

Avocado Slices

• Add slices of ripe avocado on top for creaminess and a boost of healthy fats. This addition makes each bite more satisfying.

Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving enhances the flavor profile and adds a touch of elegance.

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

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup, follow these helpful tips that can make all the difference.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide vibrant flavors that dried or canned options may lack.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

• Cook Low and Slow: Allow the soup to cook on low heat for several hours. This method melds the flavors together beautifully.

• Add Pasta Last: If using pasta, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Consider Texture: Use a mix of whole beans and mashed beans for varying textures. This keeps each bite interesting.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking enhances its flavor as it continues to develop.

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 amplifies your meal’s enjoyment. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter make a great addition for soaking up that delicious broth.

2. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze offers a refreshing contrast.

3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs offer savory bites that complement the soup perfectly.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil provides a crispy texture that pairs nicely.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while enhancing the overall meal experience.

6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta with cheese serves as a comforting side dish that goes wonderfully with this hearty soup.

7. Mixed Green Salad: Lighten up your meal with a mix of greens tossed in lemon vinaigrette for brightness against rich flavors.

8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and cheeses makes for an inviting starter that sets the tone for a cozy dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delightful dish that can be easily spoiled by common cooking errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold ingredient choices: Using low-quality or overly processed ingredients can affect the taste of your soup. Always opt for fresh, high-quality produce and stock.

• Bold skipping prep steps: Neglecting to properly sauté the onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Take the time to sauté these ingredients until they are fragrant before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Bold ignoring consistency: Not adjusting the liquid levels can result in either a soup that’s too thick or too watery. Monitor the soup’s consistency as it cooks, adding water or broth as needed.

• Bold overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results and layer them appropriately.

• Bold underestimating seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking may leave your dish lacking flavor. Taste periodically and adjust with salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar as needed.

• Bold neglecting leftovers: Storing leftover soup improperly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until hot.

• Stovetop: Transfer soup to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}:

Can I make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether for a delicious gluten-free option.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

This hearty soup typically takes about 4 hours on low heat in a slow cooker.

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

You can replace ground turkey with lean ground beef or chicken based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the meat entirely while adding more beans or lentils for protein.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to include more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or kale based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is not only healthy but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasoning levels to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate—try this comforting recipe today!

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: Saphira
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with this Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup, a healthier twist on the classic Olive Garden favorite. This hearty soup combines lean turkey, vibrant vegetables, and savory beans for a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s perfect for chilly days or busy family gatherings. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, let it simmer, and savor the rich, flavorful broth that warms your soul. With customizable ingredients, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate while providing a delicious and wholesome dining experience.

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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
• 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
• 2 medium zucchini, chopped
• 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
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned kidney beans
• 1/2 cup cooked or drained & rinsed canned Great Northern beans
• 1/4 cup dry uncooked Ditalini pasta or other small pasta
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• Water as needed to thin out soup to desired consistency
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion, celery, carrots, zucchini, and garlic. Drain and rinse the beans.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté ground turkey until browned.
3. Transfer the cooked turkey to the slow cooker along with onions, celery, carrots, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef stock/broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, fennel seeds, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, and zucchini. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 2 hours until vegetables are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked Ditalini pasta and adjust consistency with water if needed. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
6. Just before serving, add balsamic vinegar and garnish with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg