Introduction

This Ultimate Crockpot Pasta Fagioli recipe delivers a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort. Simply toss ingredients into your slow cooker for a rich, savory soup that simmers all day. For another easy ground beef dinner, try this Easy Ground Beef and Parmesan Tortellini Recipe. Both dishes are perfect for busy weeknights and deliver incredible flavor with little hands-on time.

Ingredients

This comforting Crockpot Pasta Fagioli fills your kitchen with the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes, savory beef, and aromatic herbs as it slowly cooks to perfection.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 15 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 15 ounce can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 26 ounce container beef stock
• 25 ounce jar spaghetti sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ tablespoon salt
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	4 hours
Total Time	4 hours 15 minutes

Context: This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to streamlined prep and hands-off slow cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Vegetables

Dice one large onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks into uniform pieces. Mince three cloves of garlic. Consistent chopping ensures even cooking and a better texture in your finished Crockpot Pasta Fagioli.

Step 2 — Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown one pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. This step adds a deeper, richer flavor to the soup that you cannot achieve by adding raw meat directly to the slow cooker.

Step 3 — Combine Soup Base in the Crockpot

Add the browned beef, prepared vegetables, one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, four cups of beef broth, one 15-ounce can of kidney beans (rinsed and drained), one teaspoon of dried oregano, and half a teaspoon of dried thyme to your slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.

Step 4 — Slow Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours. The soup is ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

For the best flavor development, we recommend the low and slow setting.

Step 5 — Cook the Pasta Separately

About 20 minutes before serving, cook one cup of ditalini pasta (or another small shape) according to package directions in a separate pot of salted boiling water. Cook only until al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when added to the hot soup.

This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and absorbing all the broth in your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli.

Step 6 — Stir in the Pasta and Final Ingredients

Drain the cooked pasta and stir it into the slow cooker along with one 15-ounce can of cannellini beans (rinsed and drained). If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of additional broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7 — Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli and season with salt and black pepper as needed. For a brighter flavor, stir in two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Let it warm through for about 5–10 more minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	7g
Fiber	8g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size for Crockpot Pasta Fagioli. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean ground turkey or chicken — Lighter protein option that still provides savory depth without the higher fat content of traditional beef.
• Lentils or chickpeas — Plant-based protein alternatives that add fiber and maintain the hearty texture of this Crockpot Pasta Fagioli.
• Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice — Lower-carb substitutions that absorb the rich tomato broth while reducing overall carbohydrate content.
• Gluten-free pasta — Perfect for dietary restrictions while keeping the classic pasta element in your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli intact.
• Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan — Dairy-free alternatives that provide a cheesy, umami flavor to finish your soup.
• Low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes — Simple swap to control salt intake without compromising the foundational flavors of your Pasta Fagioli.
• Extra vegetables like spinach or kale — Nutrient-boosting additions that wilt perfectly into the slow cooker during the final cooking stage.
• Quinoa instead of pasta — Higher-protein, gluten-free grain alternative that cooks well in the crockpot and thickens the soup naturally.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli with a side of crusty garlic bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls for dipping into the savory broth.
• Pair this comforting Crockpot Pasta Fagioli with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty, rich flavors.
• For a complete Italian meal, accompany your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• Top individual bowls of Crockpot Pasta Fagioli with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
• Serve this Crockpot Pasta Fagioli in deep bowls to keep it warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekend meals when you want minimal effort with maximum flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these serving ideas will help you make the most of your delicious Crockpot Pasta Fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Adding pasta too early, causing it to become mushy. Fix: Stir in dried pasta during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking on High.
• Mistake: Overcooking beans until they fall apart and thicken the soup excessively. Fix: If using canned beans, add them during the last hour to maintain texture.
• Mistake: Not sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic, resulting in a flat flavor profile. Fix: Briefly sauté these ingredients before adding them to the Crockpot for a deeper, richer taste.
• Mistake: Using the wrong tomato product, making the broth too acidic or watery. Fix: Opt for canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a balanced, hearty base.
• Mistake: Forgetting to account for pasta absorbing liquid, leading to a too-thick stew. Fix: Have extra broth or water on hand to adjust the consistency before serving.
• Mistake: Skipping the deglazing step after browning meat, leaving flavorful bits behind. Fix: Pour a splash of broth into the hot pan to scrape up the fond, then add it all to the slow cooker.
• Mistake: Over-salting the broth initially, as flavors concentrate during slow cooking. Fix: Season conservatively at the start and do a final taste-and-adjust at the end.
• Mistake: Using delicate fresh herbs at the beginning, causing them to lose their vibrant flavor. Fix: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for a bright finish.
• Mistake: Not browning ground beef, which can lead to a greasy texture and bland taste. Fix: Always brown and drain the meat before adding it to your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Crockpot Pasta Fagioli in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth if needed, until it reaches 165°F internally.

For best results, store pasta separately if possible to maintain texture, and always cool your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Pasta Fagioli is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. If you loved this easy slow cooker meal, try our Crockpot Chicken Fajitas Recipe next! We’d love to hear how your dish turned out—leave a comment below and subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make Crockpot Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Crockpot Pasta Fagioli in advance. Cook the soup completely, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

What type of pasta works best for Crockpot Pasta Fagioli?

Small, sturdy pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni hold up best in the slow cooker. Add the pasta during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. This ensures your Crockpot Pasta Fagioli has the perfect texture.

Can I freeze leftover Crockpot Pasta Fagioli?

You can freeze this soup, but the pasta may become soft upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without pasta or slightly undercook the pasta before adding. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adjusting seasoning as needed.