Crockpot soup recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for feeding the whole family. The beauty of slow cooking is that you can simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a warm, comforting meal. From classic chicken noodle to hearty chili, the possibilities for delicious crockpot soups are endless!
There’s something truly magical about the way slow cooking develops flavors. The low, gentle heat allows the ingredients to meld together over time, creating rich and complex tastes. Plus, using a crockpot means less hands-on cooking time and minimal cleanup. For more chicken inspiration, check out these crockpot chicken recipes.
Why Crockpot Soup Recipes are Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Crockpot soups are the ultimate time-saver. With minimal prep in the morning, you can have dinner ready and waiting when you get home. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Just one pot to wash – it doesn’t get much easier than that.
Getting Started with Crockpot Soups
Before you dive into the world of crockpot soups, let’s gather a few essential tools. First and foremost, you’ll need a slow cooker or crockpot. A good cutting board and a sharp knife are also crucial for prepping your ingredients. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate measurements, while a ladle is handy for serving your delicious creation. Don’t forget some good quality storage containers for leftovers!
Choosing the Right Crockpot
Crockpots come in various sizes, from small 1.5-quart models to larger 8-quart ones. For soups, a 6-quart crockpot is generally a good choice, as it provides ample space for most recipes. Some crockpots also have programmable features, allowing you to set the cooking time and temperature. These are convenient, but a basic model works perfectly fine too.
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Soups
Stocking your pantry with a few key ingredients will make crockpot soup making a breeze. Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) forms the base of many soups. Canned beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste are also great staples to have on hand. Dried herbs and spices, like oregano, basil, and cumin, add depth of flavor. And don’t forget fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery – these aromatics provide a delicious foundation for your soup. Looking for some delicious beef options? Try these beef recipes.
Three Delicious Crockpot Soup Recipes
Here are three easy and flavorful crockpot soup recipes that are sure to become family favorites.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Recipe Title: Classic Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken from crockpot and shred. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Stir in egg noodles and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
Tips and Variations: Add other vegetables like diced potatoes or green beans. Use different noodles, such as whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Crockpot Creamy Tomato Soup
Recipe Title: Creamy Crockpot Tomato Soup with Basil
Ingredients:
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Tips and Variations: Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. Use different herbs like oregano or thyme. For a thinner soup, add more broth.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with chicken cutlets or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Crockpot Vegetarian Chili
Recipe Title: Hearty Vegetarian Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add bell pepper and cook for another few minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the crockpot and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Tips and Variations: Add other beans, such as chickpeas or lentils. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder. A tablespoon of cocoa powder adds depth.
Serving Suggestions: If you’re looking for a hearty side, try these butter swim biscuits. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions.
Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Crockpot Soup Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your crockpot soups turn out perfectly every time. Layering ingredients, especially denser vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom, helps them cook evenly. Avoid overfilling your crockpot – aim to fill it no more than two-thirds full to prevent spills and ensure proper cooking. Adjust cooking times based on your crockpot and the recipe. Some crockpots cook hotter than others, so it’s always best to check for doneness. For some great ideas for leftover rotisserie chicken, check out these leftover rotisserie chicken recipes.
Don’t lift the lid too often during cooking, as this releases heat and can increase cooking time. If you need to check the progress, do it quickly. Finally, taste and adjust seasonings towards the end of cooking. This allows you to fine-tune the flavors and ensure your soup is perfectly balanced. For additional tips on healthy eating, check out this article on health and nutrition tips.
Troubleshooting Common Crockpot Soup Issues
If your soup is too watery, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking). For tough meat, ensure you’re using the correct cut of meat for slow cooking (like chuck roast or chicken thighs) and cooking it for the appropriate amount of time. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also help tenderize the meat.
Adapting Recipes for Dietary Needs
For gluten-free soups, use gluten-free noodles or rice. For vegan soups, substitute vegetable broth for chicken or beef broth, and omit any dairy products. Use plant-based milk or cream as needed. For low-sodium diets, use low-sodium broth and limit added salt. Be mindful of canned ingredients, as they can be high in sodium. Rinse canned beans thoroughly before adding them to your soup. If you are looking for more healthy breakfast ideas, try these salmon breakfast ideas. For more information on healthy meal prepping, you can check out this helpful resource: Meal Prep for Beginners.
FAQ
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about soups and slow cookers.
What is the most delicious soup in the world?
Taste is subjective, so there’s no single “most delicious” soup. However, some globally popular soups consistently rank high on people’s lists. These include Vietnamese Pho, Japanese Ramen, and Italian Minestrone. Each offers unique flavors and textures, making them beloved comfort foods worldwide.
What is the difference between a slow cooker and a crockpot?
“Crockpot” is a brand name of slow cooker, much like Kleenex is for tissues. So, all Crockpots are slow cookers, but not all slow cookers are Crockpots. They both function similarly, using low heat to cook food over several hours.
Is it cheaper to make soup in a slow cooker?
Slow cookers can be more energy-efficient than stovetop cooking, as they use less electricity. Additionally, slow cooking allows you to use less expensive, tougher cuts of meat that become tender and flavorful with long, slow cooking. This can help reduce your grocery bill.
What is the secret to making good soup?
The secret to a delicious soup lies in using quality ingredients, balancing flavors, and seasoning properly. Fresh vegetables, flavorful broth, and a blend of herbs and spices can elevate your soup from simple to spectacular. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and seasonings to find your perfect bowl.
Enjoy Your Crockpot Creations!
I hope these crockpot soup recipes inspire you to get cooking! They’re perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or any time you crave a warm and comforting meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature soups. Share your creations and cooking experiences – I’d love to hear about your crockpot adventures! Happy cooking!
Classic Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 22 minute
- Yield: (Estimate 6-8 servings)
Description
A warm and comforting classic, perfect for chilly evenings. This easy crockpot chicken noodle soup is flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions
1. Place chicken breasts, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from crockpot and shred. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
4. Stir in egg noodles and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
Notes
Add other vegetables like diced potatoes or green beans. Use different noodles, such as whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (estimated)
Keywords: crockpot soup recipes, crockpot chicken noodle soup, slow cooker soup, easy soup recipe, chicken soup, homemade soup, comfort food