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, try making this easy slow-cooked delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep work, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the magic.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and broth creates a hearty taste that warms your soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping out the pasta for your favorite type.
• Large Batch Cooking: Perfect for meal prep, this recipe serves 10, making it ideal for families or gatherings.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Ideal for hands-off cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and cooking Turkey Bacon to add depth to your soup.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of all your fresh ingredients.

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to create this delicious Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli:

Vegetables & Seasonings

• 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

Base Ingredients

• 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

Follow these simple steps to prepare your comforting Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli.

Step 1: Cook Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook Turkey Bacon until crispy.
2. Drain excess fat and slice into small pieces before adding them to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, basil, parsley, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water.
2. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Thirty minutes before serving:
– Add the uncooked ditalini pasta to the pot. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When ready to serve:
– Sprinkle Parmesan Reggiano cheese on top of each bowl before enjoying this delicious soup!

How to Serve Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh basil or parsley to sprinkle on top of the soup for an aromatic touch and vibrant color.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and adds richness to the dish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pairing with crusty bread, like a baguette or ciabatta, allows for perfect dipping into the flavorful broth.

Top with Cheese

• Shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, adds creaminess and complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Include a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm 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 ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Choose seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Cook pasta separately: For best results, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents overcooking and mushiness.

• Experiment with beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to mix in other varieties like kidney or black beans for added texture and flavor.

• Make ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight for flavors to meld.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli pairs well with several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan make a classic pairing that balances the soup’s heartiness.

3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite alongside your soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal.

5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice and veggies can be a filling side that continues the Italian theme of the meal.

6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and cheeses provides variety and satisfies appetizer cravings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sautéing: Not browning the turkey bacon and vegetables first can lead to a bland dish. Sautéing enhances flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality chicken broth can compromise the taste of your soup. Always choose a low-sodium broth for better flavor control.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to add it for the perfect texture.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste your dish before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for a balanced flavor.

• Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Ensure you cool your Pasta Fagioli completely before refrigerating or freezing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating for about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli:

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily adapt it by omitting the turkey bacon and using vegetable broth instead.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer!

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative but may need slight adjustments in cooking time.

How do I know when my soup is done?

The soup is ready when all ingredients are tender and the flavors have melded together, usually after 7-8 hours on low.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! If you enjoy bold flavors, consider adding red pepper flakes or additional herbs.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your tastes and what you have available. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl of Italian comfort food!