Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Warm and comforting, this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly day. This Italian soup comes together easily with the help of your slow cooker and is packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish to warm up with, this recipe delivers both convenience and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together perfectly.
• Flavor-Packed – Each bowl is filled with rich, hearty flavors that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal – Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Healthy Ingredients – Loaded with vegetables and beans, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser – With 10 servings, it’s great for gatherings or feeding a larger family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large skillet – Perfect for browning ingredients like Turkey Bacon before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board and knife – Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 2 slices Turkey Bacon (cooked, drained, and finely sliced)
• 1 large yellow onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (thinly sliced)
• ¾ cup celery (diced)

Seasoning

• 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

Main Components

• 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 6 cups water

Final Touches

• 1 (16 oz) box of ditalini pasta (uncooked)
• 1 cup Parmesan Reggiano

How to Make Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy. Drain excess fat if necessary. Slice it into small pieces and add to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, diced celery, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, thyme, basil, parsley, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water to the slow cooker. Stir until everything is combined well.

Step 3: Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Step 4: Add Pasta Before Serving

About thirty minutes before serving time, add the uncooked ditalini pasta to the mixture in your slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through and pasta is tender, serve hot in bowls. Sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your warm bowl of Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and make it even more delightful.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for a flavorful and filling option.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top to add a burst of color and flavor.
• Parsley Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley enhances both the presentation and taste.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Add thin shavings of Parmesan Reggiano to give a rich, nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella Balls: Toss in some mozzarella balls for a creamy texture.

Served with Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad balances the meal, providing freshness and crunch.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar adds a tangy contrast to the savory soup.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

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

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making the dish more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and stir in before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together.
• Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Knots: These buttery knots are perfect for mopping up delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the soup’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs makes a light and tasty snack alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a hearty addition.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies offers variety and flavor contrasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the Turkey Bacon and vegetables beforehand can lead to a lack of flavor. Always sauté these ingredients first for depth in taste.
• Adding pasta too early: If you add the ditalini pasta at the beginning, it may become mushy. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Overlooking seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient can vary in flavor intensity. Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth or water can cause the soup to be too thick. Always ensure you have enough liquid for a hearty consistency.
• Using low-quality canned goods: The quality of your crushed tomatoes and beans will affect the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with beans, tomatoes, vegetables, and pasta, all cooked slowly in a crock pot for rich flavors.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

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

Cooking time varies; on low heat, it takes about 7-8 hours, while on high heat, it takes around 4-5 hours.

Is Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with vegetables and beans, offering fiber and protein while remaining low in calories.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is not just a comforting dish but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or enjoying leftovers during lunch, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Try making it today!