Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Minestrone Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty and wholesome meal that practically cooks itself, you’re going to love this slow cooker minestrone recipe. I can’t tell you how often I rely on this dish when I need a comforting dinner without the fuss. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Just throw everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Plus, the smell that fills your home is simply irresistible! Trust me, this minestrone will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Minestrone
When it comes to making a delicious slow cooker minestrone, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. This recipe is all about comfort and nutrition, blending vibrant veggies with hearty beans and pasta, creating a dish that warms you from the inside out.
Plus, the beauty of this recipe is that you can really customize it based on what you have in your pantry or what your family loves. So, let’s gather what we need and get cooking.
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful slow cooker minestrone:
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables, chopped (make sure they’re thawed)
- 1 (19 ounce) can Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 to 16 ounce) can romano beans, drained
- 1 (4 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup soup pasta
- Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
Now, I’ve to tell you, one of the fun parts of cooking is being able to switch things up based on what you have. Don’t have romano beans? No problem! You could use kidney beans or even chickpeas.
And if you love a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs. The slow cooker is pretty forgiving, so feel free to experiment. Just remember, the key is to balance the flavors and textures, so your minestrone remains that warm bowl of happiness we all crave.
Happy cooking, and get ready to enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your home.
How to Make Slow Cooker Minestrone
To make a warm and comforting Slow Cooker Minestrone, start by gathering all your ingredients, including 8 cups of chicken broth, 2 stalks of chopped celery, and 2 medium chopped onions.
Now, the key here is to mix everything in the slow cooker except for the corn, beans, soup pasta, and cheese. So, toss those chopped veggies into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Don’t forget to break up that 19-ounce can of Italian stewed tomatoes as you add them; we want all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with 1/2 teaspoon each of pepper and salt. Give it a good stir, cover it up, and let the magic happen on high for about four hours.
After four hours of your kitchen smelling like a cozy Italian bistro, it’s time for the grand finale. You’ll want to add in that drained 4-ounce can of whole kernel corn, the 15 to 16-ounce can of drained romano beans, and 1/2 cup of soup pasta.
Now, this is where patience pays off. Let it cook for about another half hour, just until the pasta becomes tender. And trust me, the aroma wafting through your home will make you want to dive right in.
When it’s finally ready, serve yourself a generous bowl and don’t skimp on the freshly grated parmesan cheese. After all, who doesn’t love that melty, cheesy goodness? Enjoy your bowl of happiness, and try not to think about the dishes waiting in the sink.
Slow Cooker Minestrone Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Slow Cooker Minestrone recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a vegetarian option, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also add different beans, like kidney or black beans, for extra protein.
If you prefer fresh veggies, toss in zucchini or spinach instead of frozen mixed vegetables.
For a twist, try adding pesto for flavor or swapping the pasta for quinoa or rice.
Experimenting with herbs, like basil or parsley, can also elevate the dish to new heights.
Enjoy your culinary creativity!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Minestrone
What should you pair with your delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Minestrone? I love to serve it with a crusty piece of garlic bread or a warm baguette.
The bread’s texture complements the soup perfectly, allowing you to soak up every drop. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also balance the meal nicely.
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan on top of the soup for extra flavor.
For a drink, a glass of red wine works wonders, enhancing the dish’s rich flavors.
Enjoy this comforting meal alongside these delightful pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing your Slow Cooker Minestrone, remember that you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste.
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. I love adding spinach or kale for extra nutrients. If you want a heartier dish, toss in some cooked sausage or diced chicken.
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Keep an eye on the seasonings; adjust them as necessary.
Finally, if you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them in. Enjoy experimenting!