Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that will warm your soul. With just five simple ingredients, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully.

Why Make This Recipe

This Pasta e Fagioli Soup is perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. It is easy to prepare, filling, and packed with protein and fiber from the beans and meat. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for lunch the next day. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will love.

How to Make Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound raw ground beef
• 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 4 cups beef broth

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it up into small crumbles while cooking. Drain any excess grease.
2. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add the great northern beans, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
5. About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry ditalini pasta. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender.
6. If the soup thickens more than you like, stir in a splash of extra broth before serving.
7. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

How to Serve Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Serve your soup in a bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped onions and garlic along with the ground beef.
• You can also add chopped vegetables like carrots or celery to the slow cooker for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, add some red pepper flakes to taste.

Variation

You can easily switch up the ingredients. Try using turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra beans or lentils for protein.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in a regular pot?
   Yes! You can cook it on the stove over medium heat, bringing it to a boil and then reducing to a simmer until the pasta is cooked.

2. What type of beans can I use?
   While great northern beans are traditional, you can use any white beans like cannellini or navy beans.

3. How do I know when the pasta is cooked?
   Check the pasta around 20-30 minutes after adding it. It should be tender but not mushy. Adjust the cooking time if necessary.