Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a big pot of Crockpot Vegetable Soup simmering away in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my home, making it feel warm and inviting. It was a cold winter evening, and I was craving something wholesome and hearty. As I gathered the fresh ingredients, I couldn’t help but think of all the memories attached to each one: the crunch of fresh carrots, the earthy notes of potatoes, and that satisfying creaminess from the melted cheese. This soup became a family favorite, and it’s perfect for those chilly nights when you want to gather around the table and share a comforting meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
360 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
300 kcal
Protein:
10 g
Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan
Fat:
12 g
Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Cutting Board, Skillet, Frying Pan, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Peeler

Why This Crockpot Vegetable Soup Hits Different

It’s a One-Pot Wonder

One of the best things about Crockpot Vegetable Soup is how easy it is to prepare. You toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! This means you can spend your time doing what you love while the flavors meld together beautifully in the background.

Endless Customization

Whether you have a fridge full of leftover veggies or just want to clean out your pantry, this recipe is incredibly flexible. You can mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal favorites. The choices are endless!

A Healthy, Satisfying Meal

This soup is packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful option for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Loaded with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and broccoli, it provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals while being low in calories.

Great for Meal Prep

Another reason to love this dish is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have leftovers ready for the week. Just portion it out into containers, and you’ll have quick lunches or dinners at your fingertips.

Kid-Friendly

Kids often love this soup because of its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. You can involve them in the cooking process by letting them help with washing and chopping the vegetables. It’s a fun way to introduce them to healthy eating!

Main Ingredients for Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

The ingredients for Crockpot Vegetable Soup come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that comforting bowl of goodness. The star players include fresh, vibrant vegetables that not only provide nutrition but also bring a variety of colors to the dish.

  • 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes: These potatoes add a creamy texture and hearty feel to the soup.
  • 4 medium carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they contribute a lovely hint of sweetness.
  • 4 stalks celery: Adding a fresh, crisp flavor that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets: Brimming with nutrients, broccoli adds a nice pop of color and a healthy crunch.
  • 1 medium onion: A staple in many recipes, it provides a savory base flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil: This oil is perfect for sautĂ©ing, adding a subtle richness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic delivers an aromatic punch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • 2 cups chicken broth: The broth serves as the flavorful liquid base of the soup, enriching every spoonful.
  • 4 tablespoons butter: Adding creaminess and depth to the soup.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This thickens the soup, making it creamy and satisfying.
  • 3 tablespoons mustard: A unique ingredient that gives the soup a delightful tang.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the other flavors.
  • 2 cups milk: Provides creaminess and a velvety finish.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated: The star ingredient that melts beautifully, creating a rich and cheesy flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Making Crockpot Vegetable Soup is a breeze, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish in just a few simple steps.

  1. Start by preparing your veggies. Peel and chop the potatoes and carrots, then chop the celery and broccoli. You can even combine broccoli with cauliflower if you like! Dice the onion as well.
  2. In a large sauté pan, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
  3. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add all of your chopped vegetables, making sure they are evenly distributed.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Set your crockpot on low and let it cook for six to seven hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. About thirty minutes before serving, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly add the flour, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until mixed and bubbly, then gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously. The mixture will start to thicken and become creamy.
  6. Once the sauce is thickened, pour it into the crockpot with the vegetables. Stir well, ensuring everything is combined.
  7. Finally, add the grated cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy consistency.
  8. Serve hot with artisan or sourdough bread. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Slow cooking: This method allows flavors to develop over time, leading to a more enriched taste.
  • Ingredient freshness: Using fresh vegetables is key to enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
  • Thickening agents: The combination of flour and butter creates a velvety sauce that elevates the soup.
  • Timing: Be mindful of cooking times; overcooking can lead to mushy veggies. Aim for that perfect tender texture.

Tips for Success

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crockpot Vegetable Soup turns out perfectly every time.

  • Storage: Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. It tastes even better the next day!
  • Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a crusty bread for dipping.
  • Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat!
  • Cheese options: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for creaminess.

What to Serve With Crockpot Vegetable Soup

When serving your delicious Crockpot Vegetable Soup, the options are endless. Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:

  • Crusty bread: Serve a slice of artisan or sourdough bread to soak up the rich flavors.
  • Garden salad: A fresh salad dressed with vinaigrette makes a crisp, refreshing side.
  • Grilled cheese: Pairing this soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting combo.
  • Rice or quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the soup over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa.
  • Seasonal vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a great side and can be seasoned to match the soup.
  • Occasions: This soup is perfect for winter meals, lunch gatherings, or even as part of a cozy dinner during the holidays.

FAQ

Absolutely! While the beauty of Crockpot Vegetable Soup is its vegetarian charm, you can certainly add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since meat cooks faster than vegetables. Adding protein can enhance the flavor and make it even more filling!

To make your Crockpot Vegetable Soup vegan, simply exclude the butter and cheddar cheese and replace them with plant-based alternatives. Use olive oil instead of avocado oil, and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also enhance the creaminess by using coconut milk or cashew cream!

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in Crockpot Vegetable Soup. They are pre-washed and cut, making preparation even easier. Just remember that frozen veggies often release more water than fresh ones, so you may need to adjust the amount of broth to maintain the desired consistency.

If your Crockpot Vegetable Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors. Adjusting the liquid can perfectly balance the thickness while keeping the soup flavorful!

Conclusion

This Crockpot Vegetable Soup is truly special, offering a warm embrace of flavors that nourish both body and soul. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish to share with family, this soup fits the bill perfectly. I encourage you to try making it soon; you’ll enjoy every comforting spoonful, and your kitchen will smell amazing!

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Crockpot Vegetable Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Crockpot Vegetable Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a chilly evening, this easy weeknight dinner will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and enjoy the cozy flavors!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 6 medium Yukon Gold Potatoes
  • 4 medium Carrots
  • 4 stalks Celery
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 3 tablespoons Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 cups Milk
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Cutting Board
  • Skillet
  • Frying pan
  • Grater
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Peeler

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing your veggies. Peel and chop the potatoes and carrots, then chop the celery and broccoli. You can even combine broccoli with cauliflower if you like! Dice the onion as well.
  2. In a large sauté pan, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
  3. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add all of your chopped vegetables, making sure they are evenly distributed.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Set your crockpot on low and let it cook for six to seven hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. About thirty minutes before serving, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly add the flour, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until mixed and bubbly, then gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously. The mixture will start to thicken and become creamy.
  6. Once the sauce is thickened, pour it into the crockpot with the vegetables. Stir well, ensuring everything is combined.
  7. Finally, add the grated cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy consistency.
  8. Serve hot with artisan or sourdough bread. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. It tastes even better the next day!
  • Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a crusty bread for dipping.
  • Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat!
  • Cheese options: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for creaminess.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating