As the chilly evenings of winter settle in, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a hearty soup simmering away in the kitchen. Picture this: the rich, smoky scent of 15 different beans mingling with tender ground turkey, filling your home with warmth and comfort. That’s where my Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup comes into play—a delightful dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Stumbling onto this recipe during a particularly busy week, I was captivated by how just a few simple ingredients could come together to create something truly special. With the magic of a slow cooker, all you need to do is toss everything in, set the timer, and let it work its wonders. In no time, you’ll have a thick and creamy soup that’s perfect for warming your soul after a long day. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever you have on hand, making it a go-to for both busy nights and cozy weekends. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious and comforting bowl of goodness!
Why is Easy Crock Pot Soup a Must-Try?
Hearty flavors come together with minimal effort, making this soup a perfect weeknight dinner. Protein-packed goodness from lean ground turkey and a medley of beans ensures everyone stays satisfied. Budget-friendly and time-saving, the slow cooker allows you to prepare a delicious meal without sacrificing hours in the kitchen. Flexible recipe options let you customize to your taste, whether that means swapping meats or adding veggies. To elevate your soup experience, pair it with some crusty bread or whip up a fresh salad on the side.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Ingredients
• This is your guide to crafting a delightful and hearty soup in no time!
For the Soup Base
- 20 oz bean soup mix – Provides protein and fiber; Substitution: Use a homemade blend of dried beans if a pre-mix isn’t available.
- 8 cups water – Acts as the base liquid for the soup, ensuring all ingredients meld together beautifully.
For the Protein
- 3.5 cups cooked turkey – Adds lean protein and flavor; Prep Note: Dice into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking.
For the Vegetables
- 2 carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; Prep Note: Cut into 1/4-inch rounds.
- 1 onion – Enhances flavor base; Prep Note: Finely chop into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 2 celery stalks – Contributes crunch and flavor; Prep Note: Slice into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 1 poblano pepper – Adds a mild, smoky flavor; Substitution: Use jalapeño for more heat.
- 1 red bell pepper – Provides sweetness and color; Prep Note: Remove seeds and dice into 1/2-inch pieces.
- 2 cloves garlic – Aromatic component; Prep Note: Mince finely.
For Flavoring
- 1.5 tsp oregano – Seasoning that adds depth and complements the beans.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper – Enhances overall flavor and adds a gentle kick.
- 1 bay leaf – Infuses flavor throughout the soup.
- 0.5 tsp liquid smoke – Provides authentic campfire aroma; Note: Colgin brand is preferred for the best flavor.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity; Prep Note: Use a sweeter variety for a balanced flavor.
- 0.75 oz lemon juice – Brightens the soup’s flavor; Note: Adjust to taste.
- Salt to taste – Enhances all flavors, making each ingredient shine.
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Prepare vegetables: Start by dicing the carrots, finely chopping the onion, and slicing the celery and both peppers into 1/4-inch pieces for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Rinse the beans: Place your bean soup mix in a colander and rinse under cold water for a few minutes. This step removes the excess starch and ensures a smoother texture in your soup.
Combine ingredients: In your crock pot, add the rinsed bean mix, prepared veggies, minced garlic, diced cooked turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Add water: Pour in 8 cups of water, making sure all the ingredients are submerged. Stir gently to mix them well without breaking anything apart.
Cook on HIGH: Set your crock pot to HIGH and let it cook for 7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are tender and creamy, perfect for a cozy meal.
Incorporate tomatoes: In the last hour of cooking, add the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice, stirring gently to blend everything together while allowing the flavors to meld.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. If the soup seems too thick, add a bit of water. For thinner soup, you can let it simmer uncovered for a little bit.
Serve: Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and enjoy the hearty flavors that await you!
Optional: Top with shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey?
Looking to create the ultimate cozy meal around this delicious soup? Let’s explore some delightful pairings!
Cornbread: This fluffy, slightly sweet bread complements the hearty soup perfectly, soaking up all that rich flavor.
Crusty Artisan Bread: A crunchy exterior and soft interior provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy texture of the soup. Dip and savor every bite!
Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette add brightness and balance, refreshing your palate after each spoonful.
Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkling sharp cheddar on top brings a delightful creaminess and adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup’s richness.
Baked Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes serve as a comforting side dish, perfect for topping with a dollop of sour cream.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection can add a lovely sweetness and insightfully contrasting texture to your meal.
Applesauce: For a touch of sweetness, serve a small bowl of unsweetened applesauce on the side; it’s a comforting classic that matches well with hearty dishes.
Sweet Tea: Refreshing and subtly sweet, this beverage brings a southern charm that pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the soup.
Molasses Cookies: For dessert, the soft, chewy texture of these cookies creates a delightful sweet treat that ends the meal on a comforting note.
Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot Soup
Rinse the Beans: Always rinse the bean mix thoroughly before adding to the slow cooker. This removes unwanted starch, preventing cloudiness and improving texture.
Timing for Tomatoes: Wait to add crushed tomatoes until the last hour of cooking. This ensures the beans soften and prevents the tomatoes from breaking down too early.
Brown the Turkey: For enhanced savory flavors, brown your ground turkey in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. It reduces grease while intensifying taste.
Avoid Lid Lifting: Refrain from lifting the lid during cooking. Each peek releases heat, prolonging cooking time and affecting the soup’s overall warmth and consistency.
Adjust Consistency: If your Easy Crock Pot soup ends up too thick, simply add a little water to thin it out. For a soup that’s too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered to thicken.
Make Ahead Options
Making this Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to simplify your weeknight meals! You can pre-chop vegetables (carrots, onions, celery, and peppers) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the soup base, combining rinsed beans, cooked turkey, and spices, can be prepared up to 24 hours prior. Just mix all components in your crock pot, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, simply add the water and set your slow cooker on high for 7 hours. This method ensures your soup remains fresh and flavorful, delivering delicious comfort with minimal effort for your busy evenings!
Easy Crock Pot Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and adaptations to make the soup your own!
Protein Swap: Trade ground turkey for chicken, beef, or even tofu. Each choice brings its unique flavor and texture.
Heat It Up: Substitute poblano with jalapeño or serrano peppers for a spicier kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference!
Herb Infusion: Swap oregano for thyme or cumin for an aromatic twist. This will add a warm, earthy fragrance to your soup.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale in the last 15 minutes for vibrant color and extra nutrition.
Bean Medley: Experiment with different beans like black beans or kidney beans. Each variant contributes distinct textures and flavors.
Sweet Touch: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes beautifully.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving to create a silky, luxurious finish.
Citrus Zing: Enhance brightness by adding more lemon juice or a splash of lime juice right before serving, elevating your soup’s flavor profile.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm individual portions on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick after thawing.
Airtight Storage: Make sure to seal containers tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the hearty flavor of your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beans for my soup?
Absolutely! When choosing your 20 oz bean soup mix, look for bags filled with a variety of colors and sizes to achieve a rich flavor and texture. If you’re using dried beans, make sure they are firm without dark spots or broken pieces. Avoid any that appear shriveled or have cloudiness in the packaging.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to let the soup cool down before sealing it for storage. This simple step helps maintain its delicious flavors and prevents spoilage.
Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Ensure to leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
What if my soup turns out too thick or too thin?
If your soup is too thick after cooking, you can gently stir in additional water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a while, stirring occasionally until it thickens up to your liking. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so adjust as needed!
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Yes! This Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary needs. If you’re catering to someone with allergies, you can substitute the ground turkey with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, just keep an eye on cooking times for these alternatives. Always check labels on packaged ingredients to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.
Can I use different vegetables or beans?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different beans, like black beans or white beans, or add in extra veggies such as zucchini or spinach during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This allows you to customize your soup to suit your taste preferences and available ingredients!
Hearty Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare vegetables: Start by dicing the carrots, finely chopping the onion, and slicing the celery and both peppers into 1/4-inch pieces for even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Rinse the beans: Place your bean soup mix in a colander and rinse under cold water for a few minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In your crock pot, add the rinsed bean mix, prepared veggies, minced garlic, diced cooked turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke.
- Add water: Pour in 8 cups of water, making sure all the ingredients are submerged.
- Cook on HIGH: Set your crock pot to HIGH and let it cook for 7 hours.
- Incorporate tomatoes: In the last hour of cooking, add the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and enjoy.