Crock Pot Minestrone Soup Recipe

Introduction

What if you could enjoy a warm, hearty Italian soup packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta — all simmered to perfection while you go about your day? That’s the magic of this Crock Pot Minestrone Soup Recipe. 🌿 Originating from Italy, minestrone is a “kitchen-sink soup,” meaning it’s full of wholesome, seasonal ingredients that bring out rich, comforting flavors. Using the slow cooker makes it effortless — the longer it simmers, the deeper and richer the taste becomes. According to food trend analytics, slow-cooked soups are among the top 3 most searched recipes during fall and winter, proving this classic is truly timeless.

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Ingredients List

🍅 Main Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup small pasta (elbow, ditalini, or shells)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

🌿 Optional Add-Ins:

• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale (added at the end)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for heat
• 1 tbsp tomato paste for richer flavor

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time (Crock Pot): 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours, with just minutes of hands-on prep

Slow cooking allows the vegetables to soften beautifully while infusing the broth with deep Italian flavors.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a skillet (optional step for extra flavor), sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil until slightly softened. Add this mixture to the Crock Pot.

Step 2: Load the Crock Pot

Add zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and all seasonings. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors are well blended.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Greens

During the last 20–30 minutes, stir in the pasta and spinach (if using). Continue cooking until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread for the perfect Italian comfort meal.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	10 g
Fat	6 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Fiber	8 g
Sodium	520 mg
Vitamin A	80% DV
Iron	20% DV

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Healthier Alternatives

• Low-Carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• High-Protein: Add cooked chicken breast or turkey sausage.
• Low-Sodium: Use no-salt broth and canned beans with no added sodium.
• Vegan Option: Stick with vegetable broth and skip the cheese topping.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with toasted garlic bread or cheesy focaccia.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad or Caprese skewers.
• Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
• Add a swirl of pesto on top for extra Italian flair.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Adding pasta too early: It will become mushy — always add near the end.
2. Not seasoning enough: Crock Pot cooking can mute flavors; taste before serving.
3. Skipping sautéing vegetables: While optional, it adds richness and aroma.
4. Overfilling the Crock Pot: Leave at least 1 inch of space at the top to avoid overflow.

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Storing Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze without pasta for up to 3 months (add pasta fresh when reheating).
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

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Conclusion

This Crock Pot Minestrone Soup Recipe is everything you want in a comforting bowl — hearty, healthy, and full of authentic Italian flavor. 🥣 With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal that practically cooks itself. Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to slow cooker favorite for busy weeks and cozy weekends alike!

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned vegetables?
Yes, but fresh gives better texture. Add canned veggies during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I skip the pasta?
Absolutely — it’s delicious as a veggie and bean soup too.

3. How do I thicken the soup?
Mash a few beans or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer texture.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your Crock Pot is large enough to hold everything without overfilling.