Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food in a bowl. This hearty soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep. The combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that warms the soul and satisfies hunger. Plus, making it in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, giving you a delicious broth that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply brown the beef and toss everything into the slow cooker for a no-fuss meal.
• Flavorful: The blend of herbs and spices ensures an aromatic experience with every spoonful.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as an appetizer for larger meals; it pairs well with crusty bread.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from veggies and beans.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows you to cook the soup slowly, enhancing flavors without constant supervision.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef evenly before adding it to the slow cooker, which helps develop richer flavors.
• Chopping board & knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables efficiently and safely.

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Ingredients

Protein

• 1 pound ground beef

Beans

• 15 oz can cannellini beans
• 1 15 oz can dark red kidney beans

Vegetables

• 1 onion chopped
• 2 carrots cubed
• 2 stalks celery chopped

Pasta & Broth

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 32 oz beef broth

Tomatoes & Spices

• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 cloves garlic chopped

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until it’s fully browned, then drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the browned ground beef to your slow cooker. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in all the seasonings including oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaves.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Chop your onion, carrots, and celery. Add these vegetables into the slow cooker along with both types of beans.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Carefully pour over the beef broth ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Stir gently to combine everything.

Step 5: Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.

Step 6: Add Pasta

When cooking time is nearing completion, remove the lid and stir in ditalini pasta. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked through, serve hot while garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delightful Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Serving Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup is an enjoyable experience that enhances its deliciousness. Here are some great serving suggestions to complement the rich flavors of this comforting soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth, enhancing your meal.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor that perfectly balances the soup’s richness.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness that complements the soup.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread offers a savory crunch that pairs well with the warm, soothing soup.

Include a Glass of Iced Tea

• A chilled glass of iced tea serves as a refreshing beverage option that balances the warm flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

To ensure your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef will give your soup an authentic and rich flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; adding it towards the end ensures it remains al dente.
• Enhance with Broth: If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well! Just make sure to leave out the pasta before freezing, then add it when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots make a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up broth.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad featuring tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a light contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs can provide an elegant touch to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates an appealing appetizer before enjoying your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a smoky flavor that complements the hearty ingredients in the soup.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: These soft sticks are ideal for dipping and add extra indulgence to your dining experience.
7. Simple Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach tossed with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and balance to your meal.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini are tasty bites that pair wonderfully alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup can be a breeze, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the meat first for a richer taste.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings during cooking can result in bland soup. Always check and adjust seasoning to suit your palate.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding ditalini pasta at the wrong time can make it mushy. Add it only in the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Using expired ingredients: Using old beans or broth may spoil your soup’s flavor. Check expiration dates on all canned goods before using them.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can ruin leftovers. Store in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after serving.
• Forgetting to remove bay leaves: Leaving bay leaves in the soup when serving can lead to an unpleasant experience. Remember to take them out before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat soup in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe bowls, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low-medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup is both comforting and delicious. Its versatile nature means you can adapt it with different meats or vegetables based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!