Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

The Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker} is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your home. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting meal any day of the week, this soup is packed with fresh vegetables and beans, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just chop your veggies, throw them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work!
• Rich Flavor: A blend of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a taste explosion that rivals your favorite restaurant.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with whatever beans or vegetables you have on hand for a unique twist every time.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and fiber-rich beans, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just store in the fridge or freezer.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious minestrone soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering these will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for long, low cooking which enhances flavors without constant attention.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through tough produce easier, saving you time in meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
• 2 cups water
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 cup diced celery (3 stalks)
• 1 cup diced carrots (2 carrots)
• 1 cup diced yellow onion (1 small)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 tsp dried rosemary crushed
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Add-ins

• 1 1/3 cups diced zucchini (1 small)
• 1 1/3 cups shell pasta
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can white navy beans or cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5 oz) can Italian green beans drained
• 2 cups packed chopped fresh spinach

For Serving

• Finely shredded Romano cheese for serving (Parmesan works too)

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

Add vegetable stock, water, diced tomatoes, celery, carrots, onion, parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and sugar into a slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the Base

Cook on low heat for 6 – 8 hours or high heat for about 3 – 4 hours until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Beans

After the initial cooking time is complete, add in zucchini, shell pasta, garlic, kidney beans, and white beans. Cook on high heat for an additional 30 – 40 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Greens

Stir in spinach and Italian green beans. Cook for several more minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm topped with finely shredded Romano cheese or Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

Serving Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that enhances the flavors of this comforting dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more satisfying.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the broth.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with warm garlic bread for an aromatic twist.

Topped with Cheese

• Romano Cheese – Sprinkle finely shredded Romano cheese on top for added creaminess and flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – A dusting of Parmesan brings a nutty richness to the soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to balance the warm soup.
• Mixed Green Salad – Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy with a Side of Pasta

• Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad can be a great side, offering a different texture while complementing the soup.
• Stuffed Shells – Serve alongside cheesy stuffed shells for a hearty meal experience.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

Perfecting your Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors – Don’t be shy with seasonings! Add extra herbs or spices to enhance the overall taste.
• Fresh Vegetables – Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for optimal flavor and nutrition.
• Cook Time Adjustment – Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker model; some cook faster than others.
• Texture Variation – For added texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding beans and pasta.
• Add Citrus Zest – A hint of lemon or lime zest can brighten the flavors significantly.
• Leftover Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup enhances the meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and flavorful accompaniment.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with chopped tomatoes and basil adds a crunchy contrast to the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and color to your table.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad can serve as a healthy side option that pairs well with minestrone.
5. Cheesy Garlic Knots – Soft garlic knots brushed with butter and cheese make for irresistible bites alongside your soup.
6. Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes can be sliced and served as a comforting side dish that complements the soup beautifully.
7. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables offer a hearty side option.
8. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy spring rolls provide a refreshing crunch when served next to warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong broth: Always use low-sodium vegetable stock for better flavor control. Regular broth can make your soup too salty.

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley enhance the flavor. If you only use dried herbs, consider increasing their quantity for a richer taste.

• Neglecting vegetable prep: Properly dicing vegetables ensures even cooking. Take your time to chop them into uniform pieces for a more enjoyable texture.

• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Add the pasta later in the cooking process. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the soup’s texture.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference to elevate the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for easy storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.

• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}.

Can I make Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker} vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable stock instead of meat-based options.

How long does it take to cook Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker}?

Cooking on low takes about 6-8 hours, while high heat requires about 3-4 hours.

What vegetables can I add to my minestrone soup?

Feel free to customize with vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or kale based on your preference!

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute kidney beans or navy beans with any beans of your choice, such as black beans or chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Copycat Minestrone Soup {Slow Cooker} is a versatile and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or pasta shapes to make it truly your own!