After a hectic day, the last thing I want is to fuss over dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup — it’s like a warm hug in a bowl after a long day. The moment I toss in the hearty ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic, I can almost hear the comforting Italian melody wafting through my kitchen. With rich, protein-packed ground beef, al dente ditalini pasta, and a vibrant mix of vegetables, this soup is not only filling but brimming with flavors that transport me straight to a quaint Italian trattoria. Plus, it’s a cinch to prepare, making it the perfect quick dinner solution. Gather around the table with your loved ones, because this delectable dish promises to satisfy everyone’s cravings!
Why is Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep time and virtually cooks itself, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, it’s a complete meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or swap in different beans, so it suits every palate.
Rich Italian Flavor: The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates an authentic taste that will transport you to Italy.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or gatherings, this soup is sure to impress and warm the hearts of your guests.
Enjoy a cozy bowl of comfort that brings everyone together!
Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds healthy fat for cooking the meat and enhances flavor; canola oil serves as a suitable substitute.
• Ground Beef – The main protein source; for a leaner option, consider turkey or ground Italian sausage.
• Diced Carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture; fresh or frozen will work exceptionally well.
• Diced Onion – Adds aromatic flavor; feel free to substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Diced Celery – Provides crunch and vital vegetable nutrients, enhancing the soup’s overall goodness.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances overall taste; fresh garlic is the best choice, but jarred works in a pinch.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Acts as the soup’s rich base, providing acidity; fresh chopped tomatoes can be used if desired.
• Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can) – Contributes a chunky texture to the soup.
For the Beans
• Red Kidney Beans (2 cans) – Excellent source of fiber and protein; black beans can be swapped for variety.
• Cannellini Beans (2 cans) – Adds creaminess and nutrition; avoid if allergic to legumes.
For the Broth and Seasoning
• Beef Broth (4 cups) – Provides moisture and depth of flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that fosters rich flavor; create a mix of dried herbs if needed.
• Pepper & Salt – Essential seasonings for ensuring a balanced taste.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses depth; remember to remove them before serving.
For the Pasta
• Ditalini Pasta (1 cup) – Completes the soup; feel free to substitute with another small pasta shape based on preference.
With these ingredients, your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is ready to be transformed into a heartwarming meal that will please any crowd!
How to Make Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup
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Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. This enhances the flavor and texture of your soup.
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Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully transfer the browned beef to your Crockpot. Add in the drained red kidney beans, cannellini beans, and all the chopped vegetables: diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic for a hearty base.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the crushed and diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings—Italian seasoning, pepper, salt, and bay leaves—into the Crockpot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
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Set the Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your soup even more delicious.
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Add the Pasta: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the ditalini pasta to the Crockpot. Turn the heat to high and cover. This ensures that the pasta becomes tender but not mushy.
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Serve Warm: Once the pasta is cooked, serve your warm Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup in bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs or cheese if desired.
Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop, adding extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
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Freezer: Freeze in ziplock bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: When you’re ready to dive into your hearty Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup, reheat in a pot on low heat. Stir in a little beef broth to bring back the soup’s rich, comforting texture.
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy it warm and fresh!
What to Serve with Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Create a delightful dining experience that complements the hearty goodness of your soup.
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Crusty Bread: This provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up the rich broth, enhancing each bite of soup.
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Herb Crescent Rolls: Light and buttery, these rolls offer a hint of herbs that marry well with the Italian flavors. They’re a delightful accompaniment to your meal.
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Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the soup’s hearty profile perfectly.
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Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan over the soup adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture, elevating the dish to new heights.
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Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or another medium-bodied red pairs wonderfully, accentuating the Italian essence while enhancing the meal’s warmth.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and flavorful, these are perfect for dipping and will leave your guests feeling cozy and satisfied.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with a light fruit sorbet, providing a palate cleanser that contrasts nicely with the soup’s richness.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup
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Brown the Meat: Always brown the ground beef before adding it to the Crockpot. This step boosts the flavor and texture of your soup.
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Check Consistency: Monitor your soup’s consistency as it cooks. If it thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add more beef broth to achieve your desired texture.
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Prepare for Leftovers: This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup actually tastes better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with some additional broth.
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Vegetarian Option: For a delicious vegetarian twist, simply omit the meat and add extra beans or lentils for protein.
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Flavor Enhancer: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings as it cooks. A little extra salt, pepper, or Italian herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
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Customizable Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini or spinach for nutritious boosts. The more colorful your soup, the better!
Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup Variations
Get ready to tailor this delightful soup to your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add lentils for a protein-rich twist while keeping it hearty and fulfilling.
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Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat that will awaken your senses in every spoonful.
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Pasta Swap: Substitute the ditalini pasta with small shells or farfalle to give the soup a unique texture while still being delicious.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, kale, or broccoli for a nutritional boost and vibrant flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the aromatic profile by adding fresh basil or oregano right before serving, creating a garden-fresh finish.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy, savory finish that’s downright irresistible.
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Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving can add a refreshing brightness, lifting the flavors beautifully.
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Broth Variance: Swap your beef broth for a rich homemade vegetable broth to give the soup a lighter, yet equally satisfying taste.
Make Ahead Options
These hearty Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-measure the seasonings and beans to streamline final prep. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer everything into your Crockpot with broth, and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. In the last 30 minutes, add the ditalini pasta for that perfect tender bite. This way, you save time during busy weeknights while still enjoying warm, comforting soup just as delicious as if made fresh!
Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables work best, especially when diced carrots and celery are crisp. If you’re in a pinch, frozen vegetables are a fantastic alternative and can add great flavor to your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup.
What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of extra broth to restore its comforting consistency.
Can I freeze the soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup! Pour the cooled soup into ziplock bags, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Lay them flat in the freezer for easy stacking. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and add broth as needed during reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very good question! If you notice your soup thickening too much while cooking, simply add a little more broth (beef or vegetable) to reach your preferred texture. Stir well, and let it simmer a bit longer to incorporate the flavors.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes! When making the Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup, be sure to check for any legume allergies, particularly with the cannellini and kidney beans. If you’re cooking for someone with such allergies, you can substitute these beans with lentils or additional vegetables for a nutritious alternative.
How do I know when the soup is ready to eat?
To ensure your soup is perfectly cooked, check that the pasta is tender and that the flavors have melded beautifully after the cooking time. The beans should be soft, and the overall texture should be hearty yet soupy. If it looks lovely and inviting, you’re ready to serve!
Savory Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully transfer browned beef to your Crockpot. Add in the drained red kidney beans, cannellini beans, and all chopped vegetables: diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the crushed and diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings—Italian seasoning, pepper, salt, and bay leaves—into the Crockpot. Stir gently to mix.
- Set the Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Add the Pasta: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the ditalini pasta to the Crockpot. Turn the heat to high and cover.
- Serve Warm: Once the pasta is cooked, serve your warm soup in bowls.