Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup Recipe
One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is how effortlessly it comes together. I love tossing in fresh vegetables and a few pantry staples, then letting the slow cooker do all the work.
It fills my kitchen with delicious aromas, making it feel cozy and inviting. Plus, I appreciate that it’s a one-pot meal—minimal cleanup is always a win!
The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this soup is my go-to for hearty, satisfying nourishment.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
When it comes to crafting a warm and hearty meal, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup really set the stage for a comforting culinary experience. This recipe is packed with a delightful mix of fresh veggies, succulent beef, and rich spices, all of which come together in a beautiful harmony of flavors.
Honestly, when I think about the ingredients, I can practically smell that savory aroma wafting through the kitchen. It’s an invitation to gather around the table and dig in. So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup:
- 2 lbs stewing beef, cut into bite-size pieces
- 8 – 10 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 cups whole canned tomatoes or 2 cups stewed canned tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 teaspoon marjoram leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 – 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 – 2 zucchini, sliced
- 1 (15 1/2 ounce) canned kidney beans, drained
- 1/2 cup alphabet pasta, uncooked
Now, while the ingredient list is pretty straightforward, there are several factors to keep in mind. For instance, if you’re a fan of veggies, feel free to toss in whatever you have on hand.
Spinach, green beans, or even bell peppers can work wonders in this soup. And don’t fret if you can’t find alphabet pasta; broken pieces of spaghetti will do just fine—after all, it’s all about that cozy, no-fuss vibe.
Oh, and let’s not forget the stewing beef! The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful it becomes, which is just one of the magical things about slow cooking.
How to Make Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Making Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is as easy as pie—well, maybe not pie, but you catch my drift. First, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and take a moment to appreciate their vibrant colors. You’ve got 2 lbs of stewing beef, which you’ll cut into bite-sized pieces. Seriously, it doesn’t have to be perfect; just make sure they’re not too big, or you’ll be chewing for days.
Next up, chop 1 onion and mince 1 garlic clove. The aroma of the onion hitting the pan is one of life’s little joys, isn’t it?
Now, grab your trusty 4-quart slow cooker. Toss in all your ingredients: the beef, 8 to 10 cups of water (yes, that’s a lot of water, but trust me on this), the chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 cups of whole or stewed canned tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of basil, 1 teaspoon of marjoram leaves, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper.
Add in 2 to 3 sliced carrots and 1 to 2 sliced zucchini. And don’t forget about that can of kidney beans—you’ll want to drain it first. Finally, throw in 1/2 cup of uncooked alphabet pasta. If you can’t find alphabet pasta, no worries; broken spaghetti works like a charm.
Once everything is in the pot, give it a good stir to mix all those flavors together. Now, set your slow cooker to Low and let it work its magic for 9 to 10 hours. Can you smell it already?
As the hours tick by, the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld into a deliciously comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Just imagine cozying up with a warm bowl of minestrone—it’s like a hug in a bowl.
When it’s finally done, scoop it into bowls and enjoy every last spoonful. I mean, what’s better than soup that’s practically done the cooking for you?
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup Substitutions & Variations
While you might’ve a classic recipe in hand, the beauty of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup lies in its versatility.
I love experimenting with different vegetables, like using spinach instead of zucchini or adding bell peppers for extra flavor.
If you prefer a meatless option, simply swap the beef for more beans or lentils.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with quinoa or omit it entirely.
You can also play with spices; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a nice kick.
Just remember, the key is to make it your own and enjoy every comforting bowl!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
One great option to serve with Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is a crusty slice of artisan bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a delightful texture.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
I also love serving it alongside garlic bread for a comforting touch.
For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a cheesy quesadilla.
Each of these options complements the rich flavors of the soup and makes for a satisfying dining experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup, consider adjusting the ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
For instance, if you love greens, throw in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking. You can also swap kidney beans for cannellini or chickpeas.
If you want extra flavor, add a bay leaf or some Parmesan rind while it cooks. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!
Finally, if you find the soup too thick, just stir in a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy!