Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup

Sure, here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup:

Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Brown the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Assemble in Slow Cooker:
   • Transfer the browned meat and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
   • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, cannellini beans, beef or vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Add Pasta:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, add the ditalini pasta to the slow cooker. If using fresh spinach or kale, add it at this time as well. Stir to combine.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
   • Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips:

• For a Vegetarian Version:
  • Omit the ground beef or sausage and use vegetable broth.
  • Add more beans or vegetables if desired.
• Storage:
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Enjoy your comforting and hearty Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli Soup!