Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
Introduction:
Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans,” is a traditional Italian soup that combines the heartiness of pasta with the richness of beans and vegetables in a savory tomato base.
This slow cooker version allows for all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a warming dish perfect for chilly days or any time you need a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
3 cups beef broth
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup ditalini pasta or other small pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked; drain the excess grease.
Transfer the cooked meat to a slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic.
Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Add the kidney beans, cannellini beans, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cook the Soup:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Add Pasta:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the slow cooker.
Continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
Final Touches:
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a flavorful, comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for busy days.
With its rich combination of meats, beans, vegetables, and pasta, it offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that can please a crowd or provide a few days of delicious leftovers.
Enjoy this classic Italian soup with a piece of crusty bread for a complete and hearty meal.