Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with our slow-cooked rendition of the classic Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup. This comforting and hearty dish is perfect for busy days when you crave a delicious homemade meal without the hassle. Utilizing the convenience of a Crock-Pot, this recipe promises to infuse your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and deliver a satisfying, well-balanced soup that captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.
Ingredients and Preparation: Begin by browning a pound of ground beef or opting for a leaner choice with ground turkey. The caramelized meat forms the flavorful base of our soup. Combine this with finely chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery for a symphony of textures and tastes. Enhance the medley with undrained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and cannellini beans, creating a robust foundation for the soup. Elevate the flavors further by incorporating beef broth, a jar of marinara sauce, and a careful blend of dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This meticulously crafted mixture sets the stage for an authentic Italian taste experience.
Crock-Pot Magic: The true beauty of this recipe lies in the convenience of the Crock-Pot. As the ingredients meld and simmer over several hours, the flavors deepen, creating a savory and well-rounded profile. The slow-cooking process allows the ingredients to meld, transforming a simple collection of components into a symphony of taste that mirrors the beloved Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup.
Finishing Touches: Thirty minutes before serving, cook a cup of ditalini or your preferred small pasta separately, ensuring the perfect texture. Introduce this cooked pasta to the Crock-Pot, along with a generous cup of chopped spinach, infusing the dish with vibrant color and added nutritional value. Adjust seasoning as needed, and let the soup simmer until the spinach wilts, creating a harmonious finish.
Presentation and Serving: To serve, ladle the steaming Crock-Pot Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup into bowls. For a final touch of indulgence, top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a visually appealing and flavorsome creation that pays homage to the rustic charm of Italian kitchens.
Conclusion: Incorporate this recipe into your culinary repertoire for a taste of Italy without leaving the comfort of your home. The Slow-Cooked Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli soup is a testament to the magic of slow cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds singing. Ideal for gatherings or as a weeknight treat, this dish is sure to become a cherished addition to your family’s favorites.
Crock pot Olive Garden pasta soup
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ditalini or small pasta of your choice
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Instructions:
1. Brown Ground Turkey:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare Vegetables:
- In the slow cooker, combine the browned turkey, chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, kidney beans, great northern beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook in Crock Pot:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Cook Pasta Separately:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions separately on the stove. Drain.
5. Add Pasta and Spinach:
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the cooked pasta and chopped spinach to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve warm and enjoy your Weight Watchers-friendly Crock Pot Olive Garden Pasta Soup!
