When it’s chilly outside or you’re craving a hearty meal, nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of soup. Crockpot soup recipes bring convenience and flavor to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals without spending hours cooking.
You’ll discover a variety of soups perfect for any occasion, whether you want something light and healthy or rich and hearty. These recipes will help you take advantage of your slow cooker’s ability to make cooking easy and stress-free. Dive in and explore soups that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.
1) Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a delicious and hearty meal that you can easily make in your crockpot.
Start by placing chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Toss in chopped onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and green chilies. Pour in chicken broth and tomato paste to enhance the flavor.
Include a can of black beans for protein and add some chipotle pepper for a bit of heat. Make sure to stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
Cover your crockpot and cook on high for about 5 hours or on low for 8 hours. This long cooking time lets the flavors blend perfectly.
Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it, and put it back into the soup.
For a creamy twist, stir in some heavy cream or a non-dairy substitute. You can also make a vegetarian version by doubling the beans and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Enjoy your Chicken Tortilla Soup with toppings like cheese, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla strips.
2) Beef and Barley Soup
Beef and Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any time of the year. You can make this delicious soup using your crockpot.
Start by browning the beef in a skillet with a bit of oil. This step adds rich flavor to the soup.
Transfer the beef to your crockpot. Add beef broth, diced onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. These veggies make the soup wholesome and nutritious.
Stir in barley for a chewy texture. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. These spices enhance the soup’s taste.
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the barley 30 minutes before the soup is done so it cooks just right.
Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving. This soup is simple to prepare and makes a great family meal. Enjoy your Beef and Barley Soup with some crusty bread on the side.
3) Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato Basil Soup is a classic favorite that’s both comforting and nutritious. Using a slow cooker, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days.
Start by combining diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, and tomato paste in your Crockpot. Add in chopped garlic, onion, and bell pepper for added flavor.
Season with oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
For a creamy texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender. You can also transfer it to a regular blender in small batches.
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
4) Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a hearty and healthy choice for your crockpot. You start by combining most of your ingredients straight into the slow cooker. This includes diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable stock, water, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs like oregano and rosemary.
Set your slow cooker to low and let everything cook for about 6-8 hours.
Half an hour before you plan to serve, add in the green beans, zucchini, and pasta. Allow them to cook until the pasta is tender, which should take around 30 minutes.
For extra flavor, you can add a Parmesan rind during cooking. It will melt in and enrich the broth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
This minestrone soup is perfect for meal prepping or serving up a cozy family dinner.
5) Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a fantastic, hearty option for your crockpot. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
You start by adding lentils, onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and potatoes to your slow cooker. These ingredients provide a rich, savory base for the soup.
Add vegetable broth, bay leaves, and your desired seasonings such as oregano, thyme, and a bit of soy sauce. These add depth of flavor and aroma.
Cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The lentils should be tender, and the vegetables should be soft.
Before serving, remove the bay leaves and give the soup a good stir. Add fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if you like.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of lentil soup straight from the crockpot. It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you need a quick, wholesome dinner.
6) Clam Chowder
Clam chowder is a hearty and delicious soup, perfect for any occasion. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare and ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.
Start by adding clams, their juice, potatoes, onions, celery, and seasonings like thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
Add broth to cover the ingredients. Let it cook on low for about 7-10 hours or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
To make the chowder creamy, mix half and half with cornstarch and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
For extra flavor, cook some bacon until crispy and add it to the chowder before serving.
Serve your clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl for a fun presentation.
7) Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to make in your crockpot. You’ll need fresh broccoli, onion, carrots, and some minced garlic. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Add the vegetables and garlic to your crockpot. Pour in chicken broth mixed with cornstarch, which will help thicken the soup. Set your crockpot on low and cook for 4 to 6 hours.
Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree most of the soup. Leave some small pieces for texture. After blending, add heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, and stir well.
Cook for another 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Serve hot, garnished with more cheddar cheese, if you like. This soup is great for chilly days and works well as a starter or a main dish.
8) Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is a classic choice for a cozy meal. It’s simple to prepare, especially in a crockpot. You will need potatoes, leeks, and a few other basic ingredients.
Start by cooking the leeks in a skillet with some butter until they’re soft. Then, add them to your crockpot. Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks and add them as well.
Next, pour in your chicken or vegetable broth. Add thyme, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 8 hours. The long cooking time will make the potatoes tender and flavorful.
Once the soup is done cooking, use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. You can also transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender if you prefer. This step will give your soup a creamy, smooth texture.
To add a bit of richness, consider whisking together some milk and flour. Stir this mixture into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will thicken the soup slightly.
Serve your potato leek soup hot, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the comforting and rich flavors!
9) Vegetable Soup
If you love a hearty and healthy option, vegetable soup is perfect for you. It’s packed with a variety of vegetables and rich flavors.
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté them until soft. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and your favorite veggies like potatoes, zucchini, and green beans.
Season the soup with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Add a couple of bay leaves to enhance the aroma.
If you prefer a smooth texture, feel free to blend the soup partially. You can also add canned beans for extra protein and fiber.
Let the soup simmer on low heat for a few hours to meld all the flavors together. Serve hot and enjoy!
10) Butternut Squash Soup
This butternut squash soup is perfect for a slow cooker. You will need butternut squash, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth.
Start by peeling and chopping the squash into cubes. In a pan, sauté onions and garlic until soft. This step adds extra flavor to the soup.
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the squash cubes and season with salt and pepper. Pour in enough vegetable broth to cover the squash.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The squash should be very tender.
Once cooked, blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. You can also use a regular blender, but be careful with the hot liquid.
For a creamier soup, stir in some coconut milk or cream at the end. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for chilly days.
11) French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup is a classic. With a crockpot, you can easily make it at home.
Start by slicing several onions. Place the onions in a 6-quart slow cooker. Add butter, salt, and a bit of sugar. These ingredients help the onions caramelize.
Next, add thyme and a bay leaf. These herbs give the soup its rich flavor. Cover and cook on high for about 8-10 hours until the onions are golden brown.
After that, stir in beef broth. You can also add a splash of wine or sherry for extra depth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Cook on high for an additional 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve the soup hot. For a traditional touch, add a slice of toasted baguette and melted cheese on top.
12) Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Soup is a cozy and flavorful option perfect for chilly days.
Begin by prepping your main ingredients. You will need fresh pumpkin, onion, garlic, and either vegetable or chicken stock. You can also use canned pumpkin puree for convenience. Cut the pumpkin into chunks if using fresh.
Add the onion, garlic, and pumpkin to your crockpot. Pour in the stock and season with salt and pepper. For added flavor, you can include spices like cumin, paprika, or cinnamon.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. When the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
For a creamy texture, stir in coconut milk, heavy cream, or even a splash of lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve the soup warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors.
13) Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
You’ll need chicken, wild rice, and a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. The combination of thyme, rosemary, and garlic gives this soup a wonderful aroma and flavor.
To make this soup, place your seasoned chicken into a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, wild rice, chopped veggies, and herbs. Cook on low heat for several hours until everything is tender.
In the last 30 minutes, add sliced mushrooms for extra depth. If you like it creamy, stir in some heavy cream or a milk mixture. This soup pairs well with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
14) Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish. You start by chopping the potatoes and onions. Add them to your crockpot along with chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Once the potatoes are tender, stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. These ingredients make the soup rich and creamy.
You can also add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor. Some recipes suggest blending the soup to your desired consistency. Enjoy this thick and creamy soup on a cold day.
15) Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any day. You can make it easily using your crockpot, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors with minimal effort.
To start, you’ll need basic ingredients like onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth. These create a flavorful base. Adding dried herbs like Italian seasoning, rosemary, and parsley enhances the taste.
For the meatballs, use a mixture of ground pork and beef. Combine these with eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Shape the mix into small meatballs.
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker with the broth and vegetables. Let it cook on low for several hours until everything is tender.
About 15 minutes before serving, add pasta like orzo and greens such as spinach or escarole. This step ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked and the greens retain their color and nutrients.
Top the soup with grated Parmesan for extra richness. Your Italian Wedding Soup is now ready to serve, providing a hearty meal for you and your loved ones.
16) Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food, perfect for chilly days. Using a slow cooker makes it even easier. You’ll need chicken, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Start by placing the chicken in your slow cooker. Add the veggies and herbs. Pour in chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with some cooked noodles.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender. Enjoy your warm, hearty Chicken Noodle Soup!
17) Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s easy to make in your crockpot. You’ll start with dried green split peas, which don’t need to be soaked if you’re cooking them for a longer period.
Choose your vegetables. Common options include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Chop them and add them to your slow cooker with the split peas. For added flavor, you can also tie some sprigs of thyme and bay leaves with kitchen twine and drop them in.
If you like, add a ham bone or ham hock. This will give the soup a rich, smoky taste. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth to cover the ingredients. Set your crockpot to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.
Check the soup occasionally and give it a stir. This helps prevent sticking and ensures the flavors blend well. Once the peas are tender, you can remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Your split pea soup is now ready to serve, perfect for a chilly day.
18) Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any day. You’ll love its rich flavors and the ease of preparation in your crockpot.
Start by browning ground beef with chopped onions until the meat is no longer pink. Once browned, transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
Next, add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and chopped red and green bell peppers. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, you can include Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir everything well to combine.
Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add cooked rice to the pot. Stir the soup to mix the rice evenly.
Once finished, the bell peppers will be tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. This soup is best served warm.
If you like, garnish with shredded cheese or fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup any time of the year.
19) Taco Soup
Taco Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that blends Mexican-inspired flavors into a warm, comforting meal. Using a crockpot makes this recipe easy and convenient for busy days.
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Transfer the beef to your crockpot. Add ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, kidney beans, chili beans, and a packet of taco seasoning.
You can also add chopped onions, green chilies, and some water or broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Before serving, you can stir in some lime juice and fresh cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.
Serve your Taco Soup with a handful of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy it with tortilla chips on the side for some added crunch.
20) Cauliflower Soup
Cauliflower soup is a delicious and healthy option for your crockpot. It’s creamy and packed with nutrients.
Start by chopping a head of cauliflower into florets. Add it to your slow cooker with garlic, onions, and chicken broth.
You can also add leeks or cashews for extra flavor and texture. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the cauliflower is tender.
Once it’s cooked, blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Be careful, the soup will be hot!
Serve it warm in bowls. You can garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if you like. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal.
21) Ham and Bean Soup
This Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty option for your crockpot. Start by placing a ham bone or diced ham in the crockpot. Rinse and add beans. Common choices include great northern beans or a 15-bean soup mix. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor.
Cover the ingredients with water or chicken broth. Season with bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Some recipes call for smoked paprika or chili powder for extra zest. Set your slow cooker to high for 6-8 hours, or on low for 7-8 hours, until the beans are tender.
Once the beans are soft, remove the ham bone, if used. Shred any remaining meat and return it to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 30 minutes. Serve your soup hot, perfect with a side of cornbread.
22) Zuppa Toscana
Zuppa Toscana is a rich, hearty soup that brings together flavors of Italian sausage, bacon, and potatoes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare in a crockpot, making it perfect for busy days.
First, cook the sausage and bacon in a skillet. Drain the grease, then transfer them to your crockpot.
Next, add diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Pour in chicken broth, ensuring you fully cover the potatoes. You might need to add up to 2 cups of water.
Cook on Low for 5-6 hours, or on High for 3-4 hours.
For the final touch, stir in heavy cream and fresh kale. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the kale is tender.
Your Zuppa Toscana is ready to serve. Enjoy this comforting, flavorful soup with a slice of crusty bread.
23) Sweet Potato Soup
Sweet Potato Soup is a delicious and hearty option for your crockpot. You’ll need simple ingredients like sweet potatoes, onions, celery, and vegetable or chicken broth.
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes. Chop the onions and celery finely. Add all the ingredients to your crockpot.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in some coconut cream or half and half.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a garnish, consider topping with sour cream, pepitas, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This soup is perfect for a cozy day, delivering a rich and velvety texture with a hint of sweetness.
24) White Chicken Chili
This White Chicken Chili is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
To start, place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add chicken broth, white beans, and corn on top.
Next, mix in green chilies, onions, and garlic. Sprinkle in cumin, oregano, salt, and a bit of cayenne pepper for heat.
Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
Once done, take out the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker and stir in some lime juice and cilantro for a fresh touch.
This dish is creamy and packed with flavors. Serve it warm with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices.
25) Gumbo Soup
Gumbo Soup is a classic dish that combines various flavors and ingredients. You can make it in a crockpot, which allows the ingredients to meld together over time. The recipe typically includes chicken, sausage, and a mix of vegetables.
Start by browning sausage, onion, and green pepper in olive oil. Add these to the slow cooker along with additional ingredients like diced tomatoes, okra, and chicken broth. Cook on low for several hours.
If you prefer seafood, you can add shrimp in the last hour of cooking. This ensures the shrimp doesn’t become overcooked. You can also include rice for a hearty texture.
For a different twist, you might want to include ham or even use smoked sausage. The key is to balance all the flavors to create a rich, satisfying soup. Your family will love this easy-to-make, flavorful gumbo soup.
Benefits of Crockpot Cooking
Crockpot cooking offers several benefits that make it an excellent choice for preparing soups. These benefits include time-saving convenience, enhanced flavor development, and nutritional advantages.
Convenience and Time-Saving
One of the main benefits of using a crockpot is the convenience it provides. You can add all your ingredients to the cooker in the morning, set it, and let it cook throughout the day. This means you don’t need to stand by the stove, allowing you to go about your daily activities without worry.
Crockpots are also easy to clean. Most of them come with removable ceramic inserts that are dishwasher-safe. This cuts down on the amount of time you spend on cleanup, making meal prep and post-meal cleanup a breeze.
Another advantage is that using a crockpot can reduce the number of dishes you need to use. Since you’re cooking everything in one pot, there’s less need for extra pans or utensils, saving you even more time.
Enhanced Flavor Development
Crockpot cooking allows for low and slow cooking, which helps in developing deeper and richer flavors. As the ingredients cook together over an extended period, they have time to meld and combine, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
The gentle heat of a crockpot also helps in tenderizing meats and blending spices thoroughly. This can result in a more flavorful dish than quicker cooking methods. Tougher cuts of meat, which are often less expensive, become tender and delicious when cooked in a crockpot.
Slow cooking is particularly beneficial for soups and stews, where the aim is to develop a rich and hearty broth. The extended cooking time extracts maximum flavor from vegetables, meats, and bones, making your soups taste better.
Nutritional Advantages
Using a crockpot can also ensure that your meals are nutritious. Slow cooking helps retain the vitamins and minerals in your ingredients, which can be lost in other cooking methods. For example, water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and B vitamins, are preserved better in a crockpot.
Additionally, crockpots allow you to control what goes into your meals. You can avoid processed ingredients and excessive amounts of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, making your soups healthier.
Cooking at low temperatures can also reduce the formation of harmful compounds found in some high-heat cooking methods, contributing to a healthier meal. This makes crockpot cooking a good option for those who want to focus on nutrient-dense dishes.
Essential Ingredients for Delicious Soups
Creating a great crockpot soup starts with using quality ingredients. Key elements include a good broth, fresh vegetables, and proteins or legumes.
High-Quality Broth
A tasty broth forms the backbone of any soup. Use homemade chicken, beef, or vegetable broth for the best flavor. If you use store-bought broths, go for low-sodium options so you can control the salt level.
Broths should simmer with herbs like bay leaves, thyme, and parsley. This adds depth and complexity. Avoid broths with artificial flavors; they can make your soup taste processed.
Fresh Vegetables
Fresh vegetables are vital for both taste and nutrition. Broccoli, carrots, spinach, and cabbage are excellent choices. Avoid frozen vegetables as they can become mushy in the crockpot.
Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Fresh onions and garlic add a robust base flavor. Season with salt and pepper, and don’t forget to wash all vegetables thoroughly.
Proteins and Legumes
Adding proteins like chicken, beef, or andouille sausage makes your soup hearty and satisfying. For plant-based options, try beans such as Great Northern beans or lentils. These add both texture and protein.
Cook meats before adding them to your crockpot to enhance flavors. Legumes should be soaked overnight to reduce cooking time. Balance your proteins with the vegetables for a well-rounded, nutritious soup.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Soups
Creating perfect crockpot soups involves careful layering of ingredients, adjusting cooking times, and proper seasoning. Follow these tips to achieve delicious results every time.
Proper Layering Techniques
Layering is key to ensuring all ingredients cook evenly. Start with hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. These take the longest to cook and they form a sturdy base.
Next, add your meats. If using raw meat, it helps to place them directly on top of the vegetables. This way, they cook properly and release their flavors into the soup.
Finally, top with delicate vegetables or herbs that need less time. This includes greens, peas, or sliced zucchini.
Adjusting Cooking Times
Crockpots are great for set-and-forget meals, but remember, not all soups need the same cooking time.
General rule: Most soups will be ready in 4-6 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
Root vegetables and meats might need a bit more time to break down and become tender. On the other hand, dairy products and quick-cooking vegetables should be added in the last 30-60 minutes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Seasoning and Spices
Seasoning is crucial for a flavorful soup. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper. You can always add more later.
Make use of fresh herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for more depth of flavor. If you’re using dried herbs, remember their flavor gets stronger over time, so you may need less.
For an extra burst of flavor, incorporate spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili flakes early on. This allows them to blend well into the soup as it cooks. Adjust seasoning towards the end to ensure your soup isn’t too salty.
