This Crockpot Minestrone Soup is the perfect answer to a busy day, offering a healthy, delicious meal with minimal effort.
Loaded with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, this soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrients.
The best part? The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why this Crockpot Minestrone Soup will become a staple in your household. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With the help of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities. Second, it’s highly customizable.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or someone who loves to add some protein, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Third, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal.
The flavors only get better the next day, making it an ideal option for meal prep or leftovers. Finally, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike with its hearty texture and savory taste.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Crockpot Minestrone Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 2 cups diced celery
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (optional) (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and yellow squash. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup
In your crockpot, combine the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, zucchini, and yellow squash. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, and water. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to blend seamlessly.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the uncooked pasta. This will give it enough time to cook through without becoming too soft. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for a few minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a big difference in the flavor of the soup. Try to use seasonal produce when possible.
- Customize the Beans: If you prefer other beans like chickpeas or black beans, feel free to swap them in.
- Protein Options: For a meatier version, add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Why Crockpot Minestrone Soup is Perfect for Meal Prep
Crockpot Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Its versatility means it pairs well with various sides like salads, sandwiches, or a simple slice of bread.
Moreover, the flavors deepen over time, making it taste even better the next day. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave for a quick, nourishing meal.
