Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Warm and comforting, this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly day. If you’re looking for something hearty that will fill your home with delicious aromas, this recipe is just what you need. It’s not only an easy weeknight meal but also a wonderful dish to share during family gatherings or cozy evenings in. The best part? You can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work!

This beloved Italian soup is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, making it a favorite for many. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste! Let’s dive into why this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and hearty ingredients, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Each spoonful is bursting with rich flavors from fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking a joy! For this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need just a few basic items that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what to grab before you get started:

Vegetables

• 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

Beans and Tomatoes

• 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

Broth and Pasta

• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 6 cups water
• 1 (16 oz) box of ditalini pasta (uncooked)

Topping

• 1 cup Parmesan Reggiano

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to fit your personal taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the beans: Use kidney beans or black beans instead of cannellini for a different flavor profile.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last half hour of cooking for a nutritious boost.
• Change the pasta: Try other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells if ditalini isn’t available.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat if you love spicy dishes.

How to Make Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by adding your diced onions, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the slow cooker. These vegetables form the base of our soup and bring in so much flavor. Mixing them well will ensure that every bite has that delicious veggie goodness.

Step 2: Season It Up

Next, sprinkle in salt, pepper, minced garlic, thyme, basil, parsley, and tomato paste. Stir these seasonings together with the vegetables until they’re evenly distributed. This step helps infuse all those wonderful flavors into your soup as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Now it’s time to add in those cans of crushed tomatoes and rinsed cannellini beans. They add richness and creaminess to our soup. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and water next—this will create that comforting broth we all crave!

Step 4: Cook It Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Cooking slowly allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. Your kitchen will smell amazing as this simmers away!

Step 5: Finish with Pasta

About thirty minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta. This gives just enough time for it to cook perfectly without becoming mushy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is cooked through, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan Reggiano cheese on top. This adds a lovely salty note that complements the flavors wonderfully. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

With this simple guide, you’re ready to create a comforting bowl of Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli that warms both body and soul!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Making this hearty soup is a breeze, and with a few expert tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and measuring spices the night before can save you time and stress on cooking day. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning.

• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work beautifully, adding fresh thyme or basil right at the end of cooking can brighten up the flavors. Fresh herbs add vibrancy and enhance the aroma of your dish.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider reducing the amount of water or broth. You can always start with less liquid and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.

• Customize Your Beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to mix in other varieties like kidney or black beans for added texture and flavor. Experimenting with different beans can make each batch uniquely delicious!

• Storage Solutions: This recipe makes a large batch, so be sure to store leftovers in airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.

How to Serve Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli

Serving this delightful soup is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas that will make your presentation even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl. Plus, it complements the Italian flavors beautifully!

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to spice up their bowls according to their preference.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your Pasta Fagioli. Its buttery, garlicky goodness pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the soup.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the heartiness of the soup while adding freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots not only complement the dish but also add delicious textures and nutrients.

• Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs nicely with the robust flavors of Pasta Fagioli. It’s an excellent way to soak up every last drop of soup!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli experience will be both delicious and satisfying! Enjoy every warm bowl on those chilly evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, saving you time and effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for a quick thaw.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth or water if needed.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, and enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this yummy dish.

Can I make this Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be flavorful and satisfying!

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

Cooking time varies based on your settings; it takes about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Just add the pasta 30 minutes before serving for perfectly cooked noodles!

Can I use different types of beans in my Pasta Fagioli?

Of course! Feel free to swap in your favorite beans such as kidney beans or black beans. Just make sure they are canned and rinsed for convenience.

What should I serve with Pasta Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoying it with some grated Parmesan on top is always a hit!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Crock Pot Pasta Fagioli! It’s such a special recipe that warms both body and soul, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to experiment with it your way. Happy cooking!