Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

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by Aileen Reed

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Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Warm and comforting, this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is the perfect dish for a chilly day. This Italian soup is not only easy to prepare with your slow cooker but also packed with rich flavors that delight the senses. Whether you need a simple weeknight meal or a cozy dish for family gatherings, this recipe suits various occasions and brings warmth to every table.

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
  • Rich Flavor: A delightful blend of herbs, vegetables, and beans creates a savory taste that warms your soul.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding extra veggies or using different types of pasta based on what you have at home.
  • Healthy Choice: Packed with nutritious ingredients like beans and vegetables, this soup is both filling and wholesome.
  • Feeding a Crowd: With generous servings, it’s an ideal option for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools. Each tool plays a vital role in ensuring your Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, enabling flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
  • Large Skillet: Essential for browning Turkey Bacon and sautéing vegetables, enhancing their flavors before adding to the slow cooker.
  • Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • 2 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked, drained, and finely sliced)
  • 1 large yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 cup carrots (thinly sliced)
  • ¾ cup celery (diced)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1½ tsp black pepper
  • 4 tsp garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 (16 oz) box of ditalini pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Reggiano

How to Make Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy. Drain excess grease, then slice it finely before adding it to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Broth

Add diced onions, thinly sliced carrots, diced celery, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, dried thyme, basil, parsley, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water into the slow cooker. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. About 30 minutes before serving time, stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta.

Step 4: Serve with Cheese

Once cooked through and flavorful, serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese on top. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

  • Crusty Baguette: Pair your soup with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the richness of the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving for an aromatic finish.
  • Parsley Garnish: A handful of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Cheese Options

  • Parmesan Reggiano: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for added creaminess and flavor.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melt some mozzarella cheese over the soup for a gooey texture that enhances each spoonful.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

To ensure your Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your personal preference.
  • Add Pasta Later: To prevent overcooking, add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans like kidney beans or black beans for variety in taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

  1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide an earthy flavor that complements the fagioli.
  3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can be filled with rice or quinoa for a filling accompaniment.
  4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers make for easy-to-eat bites.
  5. Crispy Polenta Fries: These add crunch and are perfect for dipping into the soup.
  6. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots seasoned with garlic pair wonderfully with this Italian classic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

  • Skipping the Sauté – Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Always cook your onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
  • Overloading the Slow Cooker – Make sure not to fill your Crock Pot past the recommended line. Overloading can lead to uneven cooking.
  • Not Rinsing Beans – If you forget to rinse your canned beans, they may leave a gritty texture. Always drain and rinse them before adding.
  • Ignoring Cooking Times – Each slow cooker is different. Check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time range before proceeding.
  • Adding Pasta Too Early – Adding pasta too soon can lead to mushy results. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to add your pasta.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

  • Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

  • Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave – Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli:

What is Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables cooked slowly in a flavorful broth.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or substitute beans according to your preference.

How long does it take to make Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

It takes about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in your slow cooker.

What can I serve with my Pasta Fagioli?

Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is not only warm and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out proteins. Whether it’s a chilly day or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Try it today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli


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  • Author: Aileen
  • Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Enjoy warm and hearty Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli made easy in your slow cooker. Perfect for chilly days—try this delightful recipe today!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 cup carrots (thinly sliced)
  • ¾ cup celery (diced)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1½ tsp black pepper
  • 4 tsp garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 (16 oz) box of ditalini pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup Parmesan Reggiano

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook turkey bacon until crispy. Drain excess grease and chop finely.
  2. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water into the slow cooker. Mix well.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked ditalini pasta.
  4. Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 315
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 47g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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