A Cozy Bowl of Comfort
Imagine coming home after a long day, greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of a slow-cooked soup simmering away. There’s no need to rush into the kitchen to prepare dinner—your slow cooker has already done the hard work for you!
This slow cooker veggie bean soup is the perfect meal for those who love wholesome, nourishing, and effortless dishes. Packed with protein-rich beans, nutrient-dense vegetables, and flavorful herbs, it’s not just delicious but also incredibly good for you. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can be made in large batches for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Easy to Make: Just add the ingredients and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
✔ Loaded with Nutrients: Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins.
✔ Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for busy days.
✔ Budget-Friendly: Uses simple and affordable pantry staples.
✔ Completely Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, beans, or spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Beans & Vegetables
- 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 large carrots (150g), diced
- 2 celery stalks (100g), chopped
- 1 onion (150g), finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Broth & Seasonings
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1.5 liters vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup (150g) spinach or kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for extra spice)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing and draining the beans. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic for better flavor distribution.
Step 2: Assemble Everything in the Slow Cooker
Add the beans, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and seasonings (thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper) into the slow cooker. Pour in the vegetable broth and give everything a good stir. Place the bay leaf on top.
Step 3: Set and Forget
Cover the slow cooker and cook:
- On LOW for 6-8 hours OR
- On HIGH for 3-4 hours
This slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to become perfectly tender.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the spinach or kale and let it wilt for a few minutes. Drizzle some olive oil for extra richness.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with warm bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 10g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Vitamin A | 70% DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
(Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Expert Tips for the Best Soup
👉 Use Fresh Herbs – If available, fresh thyme and oregano will add even more flavor.
👉 Swap the Beans – Cannellini or pinto beans can be used instead of kidney or black beans.
👉 Thicken the Soup – Mash some of the beans before serving for a richer texture.
👉 Make It Creamy – Blend half the soup for a creamier consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Soup on the Stove?
Yes! Sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a large pot, then add the rest of the ingredients. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How Do I Make It Spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker veggie bean soup is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is easy, nutritious, and perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!
Thank You
Thank you for reading this recipe! I appreciate your support and hope you give this soup a try. Let me know how it turns out in the comments. Happy cooking! 😊