As the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup to lift our spirits. I discovered this Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey during a particularly frosty evening when all I wanted was something comforting and nourishing. The smoky aroma wafting through my kitchen felt like an inviting hug after a long day.
Imagine coming home to a meal that has been bubbling away all day, filling your home with mouth-watering scents. The best part? This recipe combines a medley of beans with lean ground turkey, resulting in a thick, flavorful soup that requires minimal effort on your part. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let the magic happen while you focus on your evening wind-down.
Perfect for meal prep or cozy gatherings, this soup nurtures both body and soul. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever survived winter without it!
Why is Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup a Must-Try?
Heartwarming Delight: This Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup warms you from the inside out, perfect for cold winter nights.
Effortless Cooking: Just toss ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
Flavorful & Hearty: The combination of beans and ground turkey creates a rich, smoky flavor that is simply irresistible.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Great for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this nourishing dish!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week. It tastes even better the next day—talk about a winning meal!
For more tips on making your meals shine, check out my guide on meal prep essentials.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Ingredients
• A perfect blend of flavor and nutrition!
For the Soup Base
- 20 oz bean soup mix – Use any 15-bean mix available at grocery stores for a hearty base.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes – Essential for acidity and sweetness; Cento brand preferred for its flavor.
- 8 cups water – The main cooking liquid that ties everything together.
For the Meat
- 3.5 cups cooked turkey – Adds lean protein and flavor; dice into 1/2-inch pieces for even distribution.
For the Vegetables
- 2 carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; dice into 1/4-inch rounds.
- 1 onion – Enhances flavor complexity; finely chop into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 2 celery stalks – Contributes freshness and crunch; slice into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 1 poblano pepper – Provides mild heat and earthiness; remove seeds and membranes, then dice.
- 1 red bell pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; prepare similarly to the poblano.
- 2 cloves garlic – Delivers aromatic flavor; mince for even distribution.
For Flavoring
- 1.5 tsp oregano – Adds a warm herbal flavor to the soup.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper – Enhances overall seasoning; adjust to taste.
- 1 bay leaf – Infuses the soup with nice depth of flavor during cooking.
- 0.5 tsp liquid smoke – Offers a smoky campfire aroma; Colgin brand recommended.
- 0.75 oz lemon juice – Brightens the flavor profile without overwhelming the soup.
- Salt – Season to taste for the best balance.
With these ingredients prepped, you’re just moments away from enjoying a comforting bowl of Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Prep Vegetables: Begin by dicing the carrots, chopping the onions, slicing the celery, and preparing the poblano and red bell peppers along with garlic. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
Rinse Beans: Thoroughly rinse the 20 oz bean soup mix in cold water, ensuring they’re clean and free of any debris. This step is crucial to prevent a cloudy soup.
Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, mix together the rinsed beans, diced vegetables, minced garlic, cooked turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, liquid smoke, and 8 cups of water. Stir well to combine.
Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it to HIGH. Cook for 7 hours, or until the beans are tender and the broth has thickened beautifully, creating a comforting texture.
Add Finishing Touches: During the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice. This brightens the flavors even more. Adjust seasoning and texture as necessary before serving.
Serve: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls while it’s hot, and enjoy the rich flavors, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the goodness.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this comforting recipe your own with these fun twists!
Meat Swap: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile—each brings its unique richness.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the turkey with extra beans or lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.
Bean Mix Change: Experiment with different bean blends such as black beans or chickpeas for a twist on texture and flavor.
Herb Enhance: Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of dried oregano to give the soup a refreshing lift and aromatic depth.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to achieve the perfect heat level—just the right amount to warm your soul!
Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream during the last hour for a super creamy and rich texture that adds a tropical flair.
Sweet & Savory: Toss in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Sour Lemon Lift: Try lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist, enhancing the flavors while brightening the overall dish.
Get ready to enjoy the delightful variations of your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup, and make it your own!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to deepen as it sits.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label bags with the date for easy identification.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Thawing: For frozen soup, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating. Enjoy your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup at its finest!
Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
- Rinse Beans Thoroughly: Ensuring the bean soup mix is rinsed well prevents cloudiness in your soup and boosts flavor.
- Proper Tomato Timing: Adding crushed tomatoes too early can prevent the beans from cooking properly. Wait until the last hour for best results.
- Enhance Flavor with Browning: For extra depth, brown your ground turkey before adding it to the slow cooker; it makes a significant flavor difference in your soup.
- Avoid Lid-Lifting: Try not to lift the lid during cooking; each peek can reduce the cooking temperature and affect the time needed for your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup.
- Season Gradually: Salt can intensify as the soup simmers, so start with a little and adjust to taste just before serving for a perfect balance.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey is absolutely perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save time and enjoy flavorful meals effortlessly! You can prep the vegetables (carrots, onions, celery, and peppers) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Additionally, rinse the bean soup mix ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for optimal freshness. When ready to cook, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, adding the cooked turkey and seasonings. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty soup bubbling away without any last-minute hassle—just let it cook for 7 hours, and enjoy!
What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup?
As the warmth of your hearty soup envelops you, it’s a delight to pair it with sides that enhance the dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a freshly baked baguette or sourdough elevates every spoonful of soup.
- Cornbread: Its sweet and crumbly texture complements the smokiness of the soup, creating a delightful contrast.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness, refreshing your palate with each bite.
- Cheddar Cheese: Grating sharp cheddar over your bowl adds a delicious creaminess, enhancing the comfort factor of the dish.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado offers a buttery mouthfeel that marries beautifully with the flavors of the soup.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave spice, these add a zingy kick that wakes up the taste buds and heightens flavor.
- Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its spices pair wonderfully with the soup’s smoky undertones.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing beverage that offers effervescence, cleansing the palate without overshadowing the soup’s flavor.
- Homemade Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits perfect for soaking up every last drop of your rich, hearty soup.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: A great crunchy counterpoint, making each mouthful an adventure of contrasts.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Recipe FAQs
What type of beans should I use for Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup?
Absolutely! For this recipe, you can use any 15-bean mix available at your grocery store. The variety typically includes pinto, black, and kidney beans, which all provide protein and fiber. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to avoid a cloudy soup!
How do I store leftover Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully after a day, so don’t hesitate to enjoy the leftovers! Just let it cool down before sealing to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. I recommend labeling your bags with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Why is my Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup too thick or too thin?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in some water or broth until you reach your preferred consistency—start with 1/2 cup and adjust as necessary. If too thin, cook it uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to help it thicken. Remember, it should have a hearty but smooth texture!
Are there any dietary considerations with this soup?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this soup. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. Just ensure all your ingredients are compatible with your specific allergies if you’re cooking for others. Always check labels on canned goods for potential allergens.
Hearty Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by dicing the carrots, chopping the onions, slicing the celery, and preparing the poblano and red bell peppers along with garlic. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Thoroughly rinse the 20 oz bean soup mix in cold water, ensuring they’re clean and free of any debris.
- In your crock pot, mix together the rinsed beans, diced vegetables, minced garlic, cooked turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, liquid smoke, and 8 cups of water. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to HIGH. Cook for 7 hours, or until the beans are tender and the broth has thickened beautifully.
- During the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice.
- Ladle the hearty soup into bowls while it’s hot, and enjoy the rich flavors.