Name: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490995H19M24S
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 cup ditalini pasta; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Warm up your evenings with Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, a comforting dish that combines hearty pasta, tender beans, and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, effortlessly delivering delicious flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Hearty and Filling: The combination of beef, beans, and pasta makes it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite vegetables.
One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in a slow cooker simplifies cleanup and keeps flavors intact.
Ideal for Leftovers: This pasta e fagioli tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Skillet
Chopping board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking and ensures all ingredients meld beautifully over time.
Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing aromatics, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

1 lb lean ground beef
1 can (15 oz) low-sodium kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 tsp Italian seasoning
4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Topping

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart until no longer pink. Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Cover the slow cooker and set on low heat for 6–8 hours or high heat for 3–4 hours.

Step 4: Add Pasta Before Serving

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ditalini pasta to cook until al dente.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy your tasty Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Serving Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can enhance the dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments, making it suitable for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful contrast to the soup’s flavors.
Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls are perfect for dipping into the hearty broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta e fagioli.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, making your meal more satisfying.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

For the best results with your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture, ensuring a delicious meal every time.

Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to keep the dish healthier while maintaining flavor.
Add More Vegetables: Incorporate extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and taste.
Adjust Broth Levels: Feel free to add more beef broth if you prefer a soupier consistency.
Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking before serving so flavors meld beautifully.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding crushed red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to customize your spice level.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots provide a great way to soak up the delicious broth.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables serve as a tasty complement.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes for an inviting appetizer.
Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes offer a comforting addition that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli, it’s easy to fall into some common traps. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Always brown your meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
Not rinsing beans: Canned beans can be high in sodium and have a metallic taste. Rinse them well under cold water to improve their flavor.
Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Wait until about 30 minutes before serving to add ditalini for the best texture.
Overfilling the slow cooker: Overcrowding can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended ingredient amounts for optimal results.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Different brands of broth or tomatoes vary in flavor. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta fagioli to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring often until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli that can help you make this dish perfectly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that adds lean protein while still keeping the recipe flavorful.

How do I adjust the spice level?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes when cooking or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.

Can I make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace ground beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook?

The cooking time is approximately 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just ensure you add the pasta in the last half hour!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing room for customization based on your preferences. Whether you stick to traditional ingredients or experiment with new ones, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction perfect for any occasion. Try it out today!