Delicious Crockpot Soup Recipes for a Warm Family Dinner
As the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring the family together. With busy schedules and endless activities, crockpot soups are the perfect solution for a hearty, comforting dinner that requires minimal effort. Just set it and forget it! Below are some of our favorite crockpot soup recipes that are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Crockpots, or slow cookers, are a kitchen essential for busy families. They allow you to prepare meals in advance and let the flavors meld together over time. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a delicious, homemade soup waiting for you. Plus, the aroma will fill your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Add the egg noodles and cook for an additional 30 minutes until tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours on low
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup barley
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the beef in the crockpot and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the beef broth, barley, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Vegetarian Lentil Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours on low
Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the crockpot and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 hours.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Soups
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure spices the night before to save time.
- Layer Ingredients: Place denser ingredients at the bottom of the crockpot and lighter ones on top.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave some space in the crockpot for steam to circulate.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Conclusion
Crockpot soups are a fantastic way to enjoy warm, hearty meals with your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Try out these recipes and make them your own by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Whether it’s a classic chicken noodle or a hearty beef and barley, your family will love gathering around the table to enjoy these comforting dishes together.
