Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works beautifully in this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli . It makes the soup lighter but still rich in flavor. You can even mix half beef and half turkey for balance.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming too soft?

Add the pasta only during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This keeps it firm and prevents it from soaking up too much broth. If you’re reheating leftovers, cook fresh pasta separately and add it when serving.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

What type of pasta works best for Pasta e Fagioli?

Small pasta like ditalini , elbow , or small shells works best. These shapes hold up well in broth and distribute evenly throughout the soup.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Skip the meat and use vegetable broth. Add an extra can of beans for protein and texture — it’s every bit as hearty and satisfying.

How can I thicken the soup naturally?

Mash a few beans into the broth before serving, or simmer it uncovered for the last 15–20 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.

What toppings go well with Pasta e Fagioli?

Classic toppings include freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

Name: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey; 1 small onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 4 cups beef or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon thyme; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow); Fresh parsley & grated Parmesan for topping

Description

This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian-style soup made with ground beef, beans, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s cozy, flavorful, and tastes just like the restaurant favorite — but easier to make at home!

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey

1 small onion, diced

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained

1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

4 cups beef or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon thyme

Salt & pepper to taste

1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)

Fresh parsley & grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic until cooked through. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.

2. Add carrots, celery, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and all the seasonings. Stir well to combine.

3. Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors have blended.

4. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir occasionally until pasta is tender.

5. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan. Enjoy this cozy, Italian-inspired comfort meal!

Notes

Use ground turkey for a leaner option.

Add red pepper flakes or Italian sausage for a spicier version.

For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and use vegetable broth.

Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months and reheat gently on the stove.

Serve with crusty garlic bread or a side salad for a complete Italian meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 370
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: slow cooker pasta e fagioli, Olive Garden copycat soup, Italian crockpot recipes, hearty bean and pasta soup, cozy dinner ideas