Slow cooker soup has been my absolute game-changer for busy weeknights. I remember a time when “making soup” meant hours of chopping and simmering, but ever since I discovered the magic of my slow cooker, those days are long gone. Now, I can toss a few ingredients in before work and come home to the most incredible aroma filling my kitchen – a truly comforting smell that promises a delicious meal. This collection of easy slow cooker soup recipes is all about embracing that simplicity and enjoying truly satisfying comfort food slow cooker soup without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Soup Recipes
- Incredible Taste: Prepare for deeply developed flavors that simmer to perfection, creating the most delicious bowls of soup.
 - Minimal Prep Time: Spend just minutes prepping ingredients before letting your slow cooker work its magic.
 - Health Benefits: Many recipes can be adapted to be incredibly healthy, packed with vegetables and lean proteins for a nutritious meal.
 - Budget-Friendly: These recipes are perfect for using affordable pantry staples and making your groceries stretch further.
 - Family-Friendly Meals: Kids and adults alike will adore these comforting and satisfying soups.
 - True Ease: Experience the joy of a dump and go slow cooker soup where you literally just toss everything in and walk away.
 - Convenience: An easy slow cooker soup means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your day.
 
Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Soups
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating incredibly satisfying meals. You’ll find that most of these items are pantry staples or easily found at your local grocery store, making these recipes accessible for everyone. We’ve included everything you need to make a truly hearty slow cooker soup.
- 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained
 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
 - 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 1 jalapeño, diced – for a touch of heat
 - 1 (10 oz) bag frozen corn – adds sweetness and texture
 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed – for fiber and protein
 - 1 (10 oz) can tomatoes with green chiles – for a zesty kick
 - 1 (1 oz) envelope taco seasoning – the flavor base for our Nacho Soup
 - 3 ½ cups chicken broth
 - 1 cup heavy cream – for luxurious creaminess
 - 4 tablespoons flour – to thicken
 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – for cheesy goodness
 - Jalapeños, scallions, and tortilla strips, for garnish
 - 1 pound ground Italian sausage
 - 1 medium onion, diced
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced – adds sweetness and nutrients
 - 4 cups chicken broth
 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
 - ½ teaspoon salt
 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
 - 1 (19-ounce) bag frozen cheese tortellini – the star of our tortellini soup
 - 1 ½ cups heavy cream
 - 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves – wilts beautifully into the soup
 - 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – for extra flavor
 - Parsley, for garnish
 - 2 pounds beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
 - 6 cups beef broth
 - 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
 - 2 celery stalks, diced – aromatic base
 - 1 medium onion, chopped
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste – deepens the beef flavor
 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds umami
 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
 - 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
 - 1 cup quick pearl barley – a classic thickener for beef soup
 - Fresh parsley, for garnish
 - 1 cup shredded carrots
 - 2 stalks celery, chopped
 - 1 small onion, chopped
 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
 - 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed – for a creamy, filling soup
 - 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
 - 2 ½ teaspoons salt
 - 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
 - 4 cups chicken broth
 - 2 cups heavy cream
 - ¼ cup flour – for thickening
 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – the key to cheesy goodness
 

How to Make the Best Slow Cooker Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make these amazing soups. Following these steps will ensure you get the most delicious results. Remember, the beauty of these crock pot soup recipes is their simplicity!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for any browning steps, though most of the magic happens in the slow cooker. For the Nacho Soup, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease.
 - Step 2: Add the browned ground beef to your slow cooker. Stir in the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, frozen corn, drained and rinsed black beans, and the can of tomatoes with green chiles. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in 3 ½ cups of chicken broth. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours.
 - Step 3: For the Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup, brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the grease and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker. Add the diced medium onion, minced garlic, and thinly sliced carrots. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
 - Step 4: In a separate skillet, brown the beef stew meat for the Beef & Barley Soup. Transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the diced carrots, celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Pour in 6 cups of beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
 - Step 5: For the Cheesy Broccoli & Potato Soup, simply add the shredded carrots, chopped celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, cubed potatoes, chopped broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and 4 cups of chicken broth directly into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. The aroma filling your kitchen will be amazing!
 - Step 6: About 30 minutes before serving the Nacho Soup, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream and 4 tablespoons of flour in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and cook for another 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is thickened and wonderfully creamy.
 - Step 7: For the Creamy Tortellini Soup, about 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen cheese tortellini. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender. Then, stir in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream, fresh baby spinach leaves, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5–10 minutes on LOW until the spinach has wilted and the soup is rich and creamy.
 - Step 8: About 30–45 minutes before serving the Beef & Barley Soup, stir in the quick pearl barley. Cover and continue cooking until the barley is tender and the soup has reached your desired thickness. This is how you truly learn how to make slow cooker soup that is hearty and delicious.
 - Step 9: For the Cheesy Broccoli & Potato Soup, after the initial cooking time, whisk together 2 cups of heavy cream and ¼ cup of flour in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the soup, cover, and cook for an additional 30–45 minutes until thickened. Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and glorious.
 - Step 10: Ladle your finished slow cooker soups into bowls and serve hot. Garnish as desired with fresh herbs, cheese, or crunchy toppings. Enjoy the fruits of your effortless labor!
 

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Soups
Achieving soup perfection in your slow cooker is easier than you think! These tips will elevate your cooking game and ensure delicious results every time. Understanding why use a slow cooker for soup is all about unlocking deep flavors with minimal effort. For more general cooking advice, check out these tips for better cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd your slow cooker; leave some room for ingredients to circulate and cook evenly.
 - Browning meats and sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker builds a richer flavor base.
 - Add delicate ingredients like fresh herbs, cream, or pasta towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy or overcooked.
 - Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper right before serving, as flavors can concentrate during slow cooking.
 
What’s the secret to perfect slow cooker soup?
The real secret to the best slow cooker soup is layering flavors. Searing meats and sautéing your aromatics first creates a depth that simply simmering everything raw can’t match. It’s a small step with a big impact.
Can I make slow cooker soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing your slow cooker soup for dinner the night before is a fantastic time-saver. Just assemble the ingredients (except for cream or pasta) in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. You can then start it in the morning or transfer it to a preheated cooker. This is a great example of planning for a good night.
How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker soup?
A common pitfall is adding dairy too early, which can sometimes cause it to curdle. Also, be mindful of liquid amounts; too much can lead to a watery soup, while too little might make it too thick. For more on food safety, consult resources on safe food handling.
Best Ways to Serve Your Slow Cooker Soup
Serving up your delicious slow cooker creations is almost as easy as making them! These soups are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can turn a simple meal into a feast. For instance, our various slow cooker soup recipes are perfect with crusty bread for dipping into that rich broth.
Consider serving your hearty Beef & Barley Soup with a side of warm, crusty sourdough bread or some fluffy dinner rolls. The Creamy Tortellini Soup is wonderful with a light, crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. And for our Nacho Soup, crunchy tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro are absolute must-haves!
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Soups
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your slow cooker creations is helpful for making informed dietary choices. Since this collection features several distinct recipes, the values can vary significantly. The following provides an approximation per serving.
- Calories: Varies (approx. 300-500 kcal)
 - Fat: Varies (approx. 15-30g)
 - Saturated Fat: Varies (approx. 8-15g)
 - Protein: Varies (approx. 15-30g)
 - Carbohydrates: Varies (approx. 20-40g)
 - Fiber: Varies (approx. 3-8g)
 - Sugar: Varies (approx. 5-15g)
 - Sodium: Varies (approx. 600-1200mg)
 
Nutritional values are estimates and vary by recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Soup
One of the best things about making a big batch of soup is having delicious leftovers. Storing and reheating your slow cooker soup is super simple, making it perfect for meal prep and ideal for slow cooker soup for beginners who are just getting the hang of it. After your soup has finished cooking, let it cool down on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps prevent steam buildup, which can make containers soggy. Once it’s cooled slightly, transfer the soup into airtight containers. For refrigeration, store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to freeze your soup, make sure your containers are freezer-safe. Most slow cooker soups freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions until heated through. For more on food preservation, explore food preservation techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Soup
What is slow cooker soup?
Simply put, slow cooker soup is any soup recipe prepared using a slow cooker, also known as a crock pot. It involves combining ingredients in the cooker and letting them simmer on a low heat for several hours. This method is fantastic for developing deep flavors with minimal effort, making delicious, homemade soup accessible even on the busiest days.
Is slow cooker soup healthier than stovetop soup?
Not necessarily healthier, but it can be easier to control ingredients. With an easy slow cooker soup, you can load it up with vegetables and lean proteins, and the slow, gentle cooking can help retain more nutrients compared to boiling on the stovetop. You have full control over the sodium and fat content.
Can I use frozen ingredients in my slow cooker soup?
Yes, absolutely! Many slow cooker soup recipes are designed to accommodate frozen vegetables and even meats. Frozen ingredients can often be added directly to the slow cooker without thawing, though they might increase the cooking time slightly. It’s a great way to save prep time!
What are the best cuts of meat for slow cooker soup?
Tougher, less expensive cuts of meat like beef chuck roast, pork shoulder, or lamb shoulder are perfect for slow cooker soups. The long, slow cooking time breaks down the connective tissues, making the meat incredibly tender and flavorful. For ground meats, browning them first is usually recommended for the best taste.
Variations of Slow Cooker Soup You Can Try
The beauty of slow cooker soups is their incredible versatility! You can adapt almost any recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. For a truly healthy slow cooker soup, load it up with extra vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, and opt for lean proteins like chicken breast or turkey. For more ideas on healthy eating, consider these healthy eating tips.
Craving something decadent? A creamy slow cooker soup can be achieved by adding coconut milk, cashew cream, or even a swirl of Greek yogurt at the end of cooking. For a lighter option, focus on broth-based soups packed with a variety of beans and greens. You can also experiment with different spice blends, from a smoky chipotle to a fragrant curry, to create entirely new flavor profiles.
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		Amazing Slow Cooker Soup: 2 Incredible Recipes
- Total Time: 3-8 hours 15 minutes
 - Yield: 4-6 servings per recipe 1x
 - Diet: Vegetarian
 
Description
Discover a collection of the 10 best slow cooker soup recipes, perfect for comforting meals on chilly days. These easy, flavorful soups require minimal effort, letting your slow cooker do the work for delicious, homemade results.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained
 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
 - 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 1 jalapeño, diced
 - 1 (10 oz) bag frozen corn
 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
 - 1 (10 oz) can tomatoes with green chiles
 - 1 (1 oz) envelope taco seasoning
 - 3 ½ cups chicken broth
 - 1 cup heavy cream
 - 4 tablespoons flour
 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
 - Jalapeños, scallions, and tortilla strips, for garnish
 - 1 pound ground Italian sausage
 - 1 medium onion, diced
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
 - 4 cups chicken broth
 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
 - ½ teaspoon salt
 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
 - 1 (19-ounce) bag frozen cheese tortellini
 - 1 ½ cups heavy cream
 - 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
 - 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
 - Parsley, for garnish
 - 2 pounds beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
 - 6 cups beef broth
 - 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
 - 2 celery stalks, diced
 - 1 medium onion, chopped
 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
 - 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
 - 1 cup quick pearl barley
 - Fresh parsley, for garnish
 - 1 cup shredded carrots
 - 2 stalks celery, chopped
 - 1 small onion, chopped
 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
 - 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
 - 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
 - 2 ½ teaspoons salt
 - 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
 - 4 cups chicken broth
 - 2 cups heavy cream
 - ¼ cup flour
 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
 
Instructions
- For Nacho Soup: Add browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Stir in onion, red bell pepper, garlic, jalapeño, corn, black beans, tomatoes with green chiles, taco seasoning, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
 - About 30 minutes before serving Nacho Soup, whisk together heavy cream and flour. Stir into the soup. Add cheddar cheese, cover, and cook for another 20–30 minutes until thickened and creamy.
 - For Creamy Tortellini Soup: Brown Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain grease and transfer sausage to the slow cooker. Stir in diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
 - About 30 minutes before serving Creamy Tortellini Soup, stir in cheese tortellini. Cover and cook until pasta is tender. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5–10 minutes on LOW until spinach wilts and soup is creamy.
 - For Beef & Barley Soup: Add beef stew meat to the slow cooker. Stir in carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Pour in beef broth and tomato paste, stirring until combined. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
 - About 30–45 minutes before serving Beef & Barley Soup, stir in quick pearl barley. Cover and cook until barley is tender and soup has thickened.
 - For Cheesy Broccoli & Potato Soup: Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, potatoes, broccoli, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
 - In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and flour until smooth. Stir the mixture into the Cheesy Broccoli & Potato Soup, cover, and cook for an additional 30–45 minutes until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
 - Ladle soups into bowls and serve hot with desired garnishes and accompaniments.
 
Notes
- This collection features 10 different slow cooker soup recipes.
 - Recipes include Slow Cooker Chicken Meatball & Veggie Soup, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, Slow Cooker Crack Potato Soup, Slow Cooker Sausage & Potato Soup, Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup, Slow Cooker Cajun Sausage & Potato Soup, Slow Cooker Nacho Soup, Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup, Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup, and Slow Cooker Cheesy Broccoli & Potato Soup.
 - Most recipes suggest cooking on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
 - Cream, cheese, or pasta are often added in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
 - Garnishes vary by recipe and can include fresh herbs, cheese, or tortilla strips.
 
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 3-8 hours
 - Category: Soups
 - Method: Slow Cooker
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (varies by recipe)
 - Calories: Varies by recipe
 - Sugar: Varies by recipe
 - Sodium: Varies by recipe
 - Fat: Varies by recipe
 - Saturated Fat: Varies by recipe
 - Unsaturated Fat: Varies by recipe
 - Trans Fat: Varies by recipe
 - Carbohydrates: Varies by recipe
 - Fiber: Varies by recipe
 - Protein: Varies by recipe
 - Cholesterol: Varies by recipe
 
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