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

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat} is a delicious, wholesome meal that warms you from the inside out. This recipe captures the essence of the beloved Olive Garden dish, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy get-togethers. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this soup is not only comforting but also easy to prepare using your slow cooker. You’ll love how simple it is to create a satisfying bowl of goodness that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground turkey and beans, this soup keeps you satisfied for hours.
• Flavorful and Rich: A blend of spices and fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile: Easily adjust ingredients to cater to your preferences or dietary needs, including gluten-free options.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Lightened up with lean protein and plenty of veggies, this soup is both nutritious and indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together beautifully over time.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, saving you time in preparation.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (avocado or grapeseed oil work as well)
• 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)
• 2 medium zucchini (chopped)

For the Liquids

• 3 cups homemade or canned tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes (undrained (preferably fire roasted or Italian style))
• 1/2 cup homemade beef stock or good quality no-salt beef broth

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds

For Protein & Pasta

• 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 (use gluten-free or leave out entirely if preferred)

Final Touches

• 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 chopping all your vegetables, including onion, celery, carrots, and zucchini. Mince the garlic cloves. Set everything aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.
3. Remove from heat after about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add browned turkey along with chopped onions, garlic, celery, carrots, zucchini, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, fennel seeds, kidney beans, Great Northern beans, Ditalini pasta, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
2. Stir everything to combine well.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker:
1. Set on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
2. Check occasionally; add water if it becomes too thick.

Step 5: Serve

Once done:
1. Remove bay leaf before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your hearty Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup!

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

Serving Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate this dish and make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every flavorful drop.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients beautifully.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness that brightens the soup.

Side Salad

• A light garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving enhances the depth of flavor and adds a touch of elegance to your bowl.

With Your Favorite Crackers

• Serve with crunchy crackers for an added texture that makes each spoonful even more satisfying.

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

To make sure your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value of the soup.

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

• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to simmer for several hours brings out deeper flavors in all the ingredients, making it richer and more satisfying.

• Add Pasta at the Right Time: To prevent overcooking, add pasta about 30 minutes before serving. This ensures it remains al dente.

• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth or add an extra can of beans for added texture without losing flavor.

• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage, preserving its taste and quality.

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 can create a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar, this salad offers a bright contrast to the warm soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and vegetables complement the flavors in your soup while adding substance to your meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized can provide a healthy and tasty addition alongside your soup.

5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet fulfilling, quinoa mixed with veggies creates a nutritious side that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.

6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, artichokes, marinated vegetables, and cheeses provides variety and excitement to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup, some common pitfalls can affect your dish’s outcome. Here are a few mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker may result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take a few minutes to sauté these ingredients first.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using only dried herbs can make your soup taste flat. Incorporate fresh parsley or other herbs right before serving for a burst of freshness.

• Overdoing the Pasta: Adding too much pasta can lead to a thick, gummy texture. Measure carefully, keeping in mind that pasta expands while cooking in the soup.

• Not Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, you might forget to add water or broth to thin it out. Always check the consistency at the end of cooking and adjust as needed.

• Forgetting About Seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can leave your soup bland. Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to enhance flavors just before serving.

• Using Poor Quality Stock: Low-quality stock can affect the overall taste of your soup. Always use homemade or high-quality broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days for best quality.

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

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

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 covered with foil and heat for about 30 minutes until hot.

• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until thoroughly heated.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until hot, adding water if needed to reach desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries regarding Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}?

Cooking time is approximately 4 hours on low heat or about 2 hours on high heat in your slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

What sides pair well with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup {Olive Garden copy-cat}?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile enough for various dietary needs. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or beans based on your preferences. Give this Olive Garden-inspired recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!