This hearty and flavorful Crockpot Pasta Fagioli is a perfect comfort food for any day. Packed with tender vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s a satisfying dish that will leave your family asking for seconds. Whether you prefer it with meat or vegetarian, this soup is simple to prepare and full of Italian-inspired goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
Hands-Free Cooking: Using the crockpot allows you to prep the soup and let it simmer while you focus on other tasks.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit vegetarian preferences or use ground sausage for added flavor.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich beans, nutritious vegetables, and hearty pasta, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Main Ingredients:
Meat (Optional): 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
Vegetables:
1 small onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Beans & Tomatoes:
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
Broth & Pasta:
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
Seasonings:
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley
How to Make Crockpot Pasta Fagioli
Step 1: Prepare the Meat (Optional)
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess grease and transfer the meat to the crockpot.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beans
In the crockpot, combine diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, cannellini beans, and chicken or vegetable broth.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Stir in basil, oregano, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ditalini pasta. Let it cook until tender.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Tips for Recipe Success
Prevent Overcooked Pasta: Add the pasta only during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid it becoming mushy.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick after adding pasta, stir in more broth or water to reach your desired texture.
Enhance Flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the soup for a richer, deeper flavor.
Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crusty loaf of Italian bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Add a fresh green salad on the side for a lighter touch.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?
Yes! However, freeze the soup without the pasta to avoid mushy noodles. Add cooked pasta when reheating.
What other pasta works in this recipe?
Elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo are excellent alternatives to ditalini pasta.
Can I make this entirely vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian soup.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6.5-8.5 hours
This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli is a delicious, hearty dish that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy slow-cooker recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite!