Introduction:
Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and flavorful soup that combines Italian sausage, vegetables, beans, pasta, and a savory broth. This beloved dish from the Olive Garden restaurant is known for its comforting and satisfying flavors, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or cozy family dinners. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can easily prepare this delicious soup with minimal effort, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as it cooks low and slow.
Origin and Popularity:
Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans” in Italian, is a traditional Italian soup that has been enjoyed for generations. Originating from the rural regions of Italy, this humble dish was traditionally made with simple, inexpensive ingredients such as pasta, beans, vegetables, and sometimes cured meats. Over time, Pasta e Fagioli became popular in Italian-American cuisine and gained widespread recognition for its hearty and comforting qualities. The version served at Olive Garden has become especially popular, known for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Transfer the cooked vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- To the slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes (with juices), drained and rinsed kidney beans, drained and rinsed cannellini beans, beef or chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the flavors have melded together and the soup is fragrant and flavorful.
- Add Pasta:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape). Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot with optional toppings such as crushed red pepper flakes, additional grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
- Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables such as diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion:
Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting and satisfying soup that captures the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. With its hearty combination of Italian sausage, beans, vegetables, pasta, and savory broth, this soup is a beloved favorite that is sure to warm your heart and soul. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal or as part of a special dinner spread, Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table.
Recommendation:
Pair Olive Garden Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli with a crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping, and a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and hearty goodness of this classic Italian soup with family and friends, and savor the simple pleasures of homemade cooking!