Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup
Are you looking for a hearty and delicious soup recipe that is easy to make? Look no further than Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup! This Italian-inspired dish is packed with flavor and will warm you up on even the coldest of days. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using a slow cooker, the key ingredients that make this soup so special, and how to make it step by step.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker can be a game-changer when it comes to cooking soups and stews. It allows the flavors to meld together and develop over time, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious dish. Plus, it requires minimal effort on your part – simply add the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do its magic. No need to stand over a hot stove for hours!
The Key Ingredients
Now let’s talk about the key ingredients that make Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup so delicious. This soup is typically made with a combination of ground beef, vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery, tomatoes, beans, and pasta. The ground beef adds richness and depth of flavor, while the vegetables provide texture and nutrients. The tomatoes and beans give the soup its signature Italian taste, and the pasta adds a comforting element.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup
Making Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup is a breeze. Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Next, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they are tender and fragrant. Add them to the slow cooker along with the tomatoes, beans, and seasonings. Give everything a good stir, cover the slow cooker, and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta and let it cook until al dente. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of meat such as ground turkey or chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to amp up the nutritional value of the soup.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Small pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini work well in this soup.
6. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the same steps but adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
7. Can I add cheese to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top of each serving for an extra cheesy touch.
8. Can I add spices or herbs?
Yes, you can add spices or herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil to enhance the flavor of the soup. Just adjust the amounts to your taste preferences.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for those chilly days. With the help of a slow cooker, you can easily create a flavorful soup that will impress your family and friends. So why not give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warm and hearty goodness?
Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 carton (32 ounces) beef stock
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) Italian-style diced tomatoes
- 1 jar (28 ounces) spaghetti sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans , drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) white kidney beans , drained
- 3 stalks celery , diced
- 2 medium carrots , diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 5 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco®)
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook and stir the ground beef in the skillet until it turns brown and crumbly, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and drain the grease. Discard the grease.
- Transfer the cooked beef to a slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, add the stock, broth, tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, red and white kidney beans, celery, carrot, onion, parsley, oregano, pepper, salt, and hot sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or on High for 4 to 6 hours.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the pasta to the slow cooker.
- If desired, you can substitute ground beef with venison and ditalini pasta with bow tie pasta.
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