Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup – Easy & Hearty Recipe

Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty, delicious, and easy to prepare. This Italian-inspired soup brings together ground meat, beans, pasta, and vegetables, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With its rich flavors and fiber-packed ingredients, this soup is not only satisfying but also a meal in itself. Whether you are feeding a family or preparing for leftovers, this Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is beloved for many reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal prep time, and is packed with nutrients. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, comforting dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours, even though it only takes a few steps. The best part? This soup is filling enough to be served on its own, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful and filling soup:

• Olive Oil: For sautéing the meat and adding a rich flavor base.
• Ground Beef: The main protein source in this recipe, offering a rich, savory flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Carrots: Adds sweetness and a nice crunch to the soup.
• Onion: Provides an aromatic base that enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Celery: Contributes a mild, refreshing crunch that balances the flavors.
• Garlic: Essential for depth and savory richness. Fresh garlic works best for this recipe.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Adds body and richness to the broth.

• Diced Tomatoes: Offers some texture to the soup.
• Beans (Red Kidney and Cannellini): Adds protein, fiber, and texture to make the soup heartier.
• Beef Broth: A savory base for the soup. You can also use vegetable or chicken broth as alternatives.
• Italian Seasoning: Gives the soup its authentic Italian flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Bay Leaves: Adds depth to the soup’s broth.
• Ditalini Pasta: Small pasta that soaks up the broth beautifully. You can substitute with small elbow noodles if preferred.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to customize the recipe, there are plenty of ways to swap ingredients:

• For a vegetarian version: Skip the ground meat and add more beans or even some diced potatoes for a filling alternative.
• For gluten-free: Substitute the ditalini pasta with gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely for a low-carb option.
• For extra flavor: Try using ground Italian sausage instead of beef for a spicier, more flavorful broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make this hearty Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup:

1. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the Crockpot.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the carrots, onion, and celery. Mince the garlic. Add all these ingredients to the slow cooker along with the browned meat.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
4. Slow Cook the Soup: Set the Crockpot to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
5. Cook the Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ditalini pasta. Turn the slow cooker to high and cover. Let the pasta cook for about 30 minutes until tender.
6. Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the bay leaves, and your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup turns out perfect every time, here are a few tips:

• Use lean meat: Opt for lean ground beef (90/10) to avoid a greasy soup.
• Prep the ingredients the night before: Chop your vegetables and brown the meat ahead of time, so all you need to do in the morning is toss everything in the Crockpot.
• Cook the pasta separately: If you’re making the soup ahead of time or storing leftovers, cook the pasta separately to prevent it from soaking up all the broth. This will help keep the soup from becoming too thick or dry.
• Adjust seasonings: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or extra Italian seasoning.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is substantial enough to be served as a main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with several side options:

• Bread: Serve it with crusty bread or homemade Herb Crescent Rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Salad: A refreshing Italian salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad makes a great side to balance out the richness of the soup.
• Sandwiches: Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Storage and Freezing

This soup is perfect for making ahead or storing for later.

• Storing: Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen after a day or two, so it’s perfect for leftovers.
• Freezing: If you have extra, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add additional broth as the pasta absorbs liquid over time.

Health Benefits and Comforting Qualities

Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting, fiber-packed meal that’s ideal for a nutritious and hearty dinner. The combination of beans, vegetables, and lean protein makes this soup a balanced dish that provides essential nutrients and keeps you full for hours. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures that all the flavors come together for an incredibly rich and flavorful bowl of soup.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is a winner. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the kind of recipe that will make your evenings stress-free and satisfying.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe brings together wholesome ingredients like ground meat, pasta, beans, and vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection for a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal, a hearty dinner on a cold evening, or a make-ahead option, this soup checks all the boxes. Its flexibility allows you to customize it to your tastes, making it a versatile recipe that you’ll come back to again and again.

Now that you’ve got the steps and tips down, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious bowl of Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Cheesy Sausage Wonton Cups: These crispy, cheesy wonton cups filled with savory sausage make a great appetizer or a light meal. They pair perfectly with hearty soups like Crockpot Pasta Fagioli, offering a crunchy contrast to the smooth texture of the soup.
• Italian Pasta Salad Recipe: A fresh and vibrant Italian pasta salad that’s perfect as a side dish or a light main meal. With ingredients like mozzarella, olives, and Italian dressing, it complements the flavors of Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Soup beautifully.
• Creamy Ditalini Pasta Recipe: If you’re a fan of ditalini pasta, this creamy pasta dish offers a comforting, creamy alternative to the traditional soup. It pairs perfectly with Crockpot Pasta Fagioli for a more indulgent meal with a similar flavor profile.

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