Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory beef come together in this Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe. Ideal for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The rich tomato broth enhances the hearty ingredients, making it a comforting choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and assembly, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy a blend of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Hearty and Filling: This dish is packed with protein and fiber, keeping everyone satisfied.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for batch cooking; simply reheat leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Using the right equipment makes all the difference!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for even cooking at low temperatures, perfect for melding flavors over time.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps with safe chopping of vegetables and meat.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through ingredients effortless, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory beef simmer in a rich tomato broth for a delicious and hearty meal.

For the Protein

• 1 pound lean ground beef (browned)

For the Vegetables

• 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
• 3 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 onion (diced)

For the Broth Base

• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans beef broth (14.5-ounce each)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the Beans

• 15 ounces white cannellini beans (drained)
• 15 ounces dark red kidney beans (drained)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup uncooked ditalini pasta

How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked.
2. Drain off any excess fat before transferring it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

1. To the slow cooker, add the cooked ground beef along with diced carrots, sliced celery, diced onion, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, cannellini beans, and kidney beans.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Dish

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Set on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours; let it simmer slowly to develop flavors.

Step 4: Add Pasta Before Serving

1. About 30 minutes before serving time, stir in uncooked ditalini pasta.
2. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Season to Taste

1. After cooking is complete, taste your dish.
2. Season with salt and pepper according to preference before serving warm.

Enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe as a hearty meal that warms both body and soul!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Serving Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these suggestions will elevate your dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve hot, buttery garlic bread alongside the soup for dipping.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette can balance the hearty flavors of the pasta e fagioli.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Parmesan or Pecorino Romano: Provide grated cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on their servings, enhancing the richness.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Presentation: Dish out in individual bowls to create an inviting and warm dining atmosphere.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds depth and richness to the dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli recipe can really elevate your dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure it comes out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to personalize the flavor profile according to your preference.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans for variety; black beans or chickpeas can add unique flavors.

• Add Spinach or Kale: Stir in some leafy greens during the last 30 minutes for added nutrition and color.

• Cool Before Storing: Allow leftovers to cool before refrigerating to maintain quality and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds crunch and freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the flavors beautifully.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that contrasts well with the warm soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful peppers filled with rice and spices make for a hearty side option.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks provide a fun twist that pairs well with soup.
7. Coleslaw: A zesty slaw adds a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the pasta e fagioli.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and herbs offers a light appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe even better.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for a rich taste.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly: If your veggies are unevenly sized, they might cook at different rates. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving. You may need to adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference or the broth used.
• Overcooking pasta in the slow cooker: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes for perfect texture.
• Not using enough liquid: The slow cooker requires sufficient liquid for proper cooking. Ensure the broth and tomatoes create a hearty base.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer for optimal freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with other beans like black beans or pinto beans depending on your preference.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

You can use any small pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni or small shells, as a substitute for ditalini.

How can I add more vegetables?

Consider adding spinach, kale, or zucchini. Add them during the last hour of cooking for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap out regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available on the market.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pasta E Fagioli Recipe is not only hearty and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping ingredients or adding extra veggies. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any occasion!