5 Easy Crockpot Soups for Cozy Weeknights
There’s nothing quite like coming home to the rich aroma of a delicious, simmering soup on a cozy weeknight. With a crockpot, making hearty soups is simple and fuss-free. Below are five easy recipes that will keep you warm and satisfied on chilly evenings. Each recipe is designed to be packed with flavor and easily customizable to suit your taste!
1. Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic comfort soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a pick-me-up. The crockpot brings out the flavors of tender chicken and soft vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breast, carrots, celery, onion, and broth in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken and add the noodles for the last 30 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
Pro Tip:
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors!
2. Creamy Potato Soup
If you love creamy soups, this potato soup is a must-try. It’s rich, filling, and topped with your favorite garnishes for extra comfort.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions
Instructions:
- Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, and broth to the crockpot.
- Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired texture, then stir in the cream.
- Season with salt and pepper and add toppings.
Pro Tip:
For a healthier twist, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy finish without the extra calories.
3. Minestrone Soup
This Italian-inspired veggie-packed soup is a healthy choice that still feels indulgent. It’s full of hearty vegetables, pasta, and beans, making it a complete meal in a bowl.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup pasta of choice
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients except the pasta in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Add pasta for the last 30 minutes until al dente.
- Season to taste.
Pro Tip:
Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and serve with crusty bread for an authentic Italian experience.
4. Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This rich, cheesy soup is loaded with broccoli and makes for a comforting bowlful on a chilly night.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth to the crockpot.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until broccoli is tender.
- Blend until smooth (optional), then add the cream and cheddar cheese.
- Stir until cheese is melted and season with salt and pepper.
Pro Tip:
For a richer texture, add a spoonful of cream cheese along with the cheddar—it will add a delicious, tangy creaminess.
5. Taco Soup
Taco Tuesday in a bowl! This taco-inspired soup is easy to make, filling, and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, cilantro
Instructions:
- Brown the ground meat and drain the excess fat. Add to the crockpot with all other ingredients.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tip:
For extra spice, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños!
Final Thoughts
With these five easy crockpot soup recipes, cozy weeknights have never been so simple! Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or rich and creamy, these soups have got you covered.