Name: Crockpot Pasta Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 3 carrots, chopped; 4 stalks celery, chopped; 2 cans diced tomatoes; 1 can tomato sauce; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can kidney beans, drained; 1 can cannellini beans, drained; 2 cups small pasta (like ditalini); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Crockpot Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. This Italian-inspired soup combines pasta, beans, and vegetables to create a filling meal that warms you from the inside out. Using a crockpot makes it easy and convenient to let the flavors meld together without much effort.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for busy families or anyone looking for a simple, nutritious meal. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you. You can prepare everything in the morning, set it, and return home to a delicious, piping hot dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the beef and beans, and it’s full of fiber and vitamins from the veggies. It’s a win-win for both your taste buds and health!

How to Make Crockpot Pasta Fagioli

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
4 stalks celery, chopped
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
1 can kidney beans, drained
1 can cannellini beans, drained
2 cups small pasta (like ditalini)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, kidney beans, cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta and stir to combine.
Cook until the pasta is tender, then serve hot.

How to Serve Crockpot Pasta Fagioli

Serve your Pasta Fagioli in bowls and enjoy it hot. You can garnish it with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that your family will love.

How to Store Crockpot Pasta Fagioli

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. If you freeze the soup, it’s best to leave out the pasta until you are ready to eat it, as the pasta can become mushy when frozen and thawed.

Tips to Make Crockpot Pasta Fagioli

Brown the Ground Beef: For extra flavor, consider browning the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. You can add more Italian seasoning or some red pepper flakes for a kick.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with diced mushrooms or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the meat altogether. The beans will still provide plenty of protein!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells, but adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Then just throw them in the crockpot in the morning.

3. What can I do if it’s too thick?
If your Pasta Fagioli is too thick, add more beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it through after adding more liquid.