Easy Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup

Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. It's a very easy and forgiving recipe.

To make the soup more filling, add cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa.

If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra broth or water.

Garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for extra flavor and presentation points.

Top each individual bowl of soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans with a fork before serving.

What vegetables can I use in the soup?

You can use any variety of frozen mixed vegetables you want. Most brands that label the product as simply "mixed vegetables" contain a blend of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. You can also sometimes find Italian or Mediterranean style blends.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth in this recipe.

How can I make this soup heartier?

Adding cooked pasta or rice to the soup will make it more filling.

Can I add protein to this soup?

You can add cooked chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage to the soup if desired.

Is it necessary to rinse the kidney beans?

Rinsing the kidney beans removes excess sodium and helps to reduce the gassiness often associated with beans.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

You can use fresh vegetables in place of frozen ones. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly or cook them before adding them to the soup.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

Leftover minestrone soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Can I freeze minestrone soup?

Yes, minestrone soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

How should I reheat the soup?

Reheat minestrone soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

What other seasonings can I add for more flavor?

You can add additional herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme, and adjust the salt and pepper to taste for more flavor.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Used for measuring the ingredients such as the Italian seasoning, and frozen mixed vegetables.

Slow Cooker: The main tool needed for this recipe, as it will slowly cook and combine all the ingredients to create the hearty minestrone soup.

Can Opener: For opening the cans of chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and kidney beans, if needed (more and more cans are turning to pull-tab styles).

Stirring Spoon: For stirring the ingredients together in the crock pot and ensuring everything is well combined.

Soup Ladle: For serving the minestrone soup into individual bowls.

French Baguette: Dunk a crusty slice into this minestrone soup. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of the baguette will soak up the flavors of the soup.

Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese over the hot soup for a salty and savory addition. The nuttiness of the cheese will enhance the Italian flavors in the minestrone.

Garlic Bread: Butter up some garlic bread and enjoy it alongside the soup. The garlicky notes will complement the rich tomato base of the soup.

Fresh Basil: Top your bowl of minestrone with fresh basil leaves for a fresh flavor. The basil adds color and a subtle peppery flavor.