Best Crockpot Lentil Soup You’ll Ever Make – Simple and Delicious!

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Crockpot Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that practically cooks itself. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and warm spices, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The slow cooker enhances the flavors, making every spoonful comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups French green lentils or brown lentils
• 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• Parmesan rind (optional)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• Grated Parmesan, for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
2. Add seasonings: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.
3. Combine ingredients in crockpot: Transfer sautéed veggies to the crockpot. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. If using, drop in the Parmesan rind.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender.
5. Finish the soup: Stir in red wine vinegar and sugar before serving to balance flavors.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley and Parmesan, and enjoy!

Notes

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Use brown lentils if French green lentils are unavailable.
• Add a bay leaf or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

• Author: Anna Gomez
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Category: Soup
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: per serving, approx. 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lentil soup, crockpot soup, slow cooker recipe, healthy soup, vegetarian soup, easy lentil soup, hearty soup, meal prep, winter recipes, comfort food

Ever found yourself staring at the clock, wondering how to whip up a healthy, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen? You’re not alone! That’s where Crockpot Lentil Soup comes to the rescue. This recipe is your golden ticket to a delicious, fuss-free dinner that practically cooks itself. First, imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of simmering soup. Next, picture digging into a bowl packed with wholesome lentils, vibrant veggies, and warm spices. In addition, it’s a dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

You’re going to love how easy it is to make this soup! Then, there’s the fun part: customizing it to your taste. Add more spices, toss in extra veggies, or keep it simple—it’s totally up to you. Also, it’s a fantastic way to meal prep for the week ahead. If you’re a fan of cozy soups, you’ll also love this Broccoli Cheddar Soup or this hearty Black Bean Soup. So, grab your crockpot, and let’s get started! Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Lentil Soup, it’s going to become a regular in your kitchen. Ready to dive in? Let’s make something amazing together!

Why Crockpot Lentil Soup is a Must-Try Dish

The Health Benefits of Lentils in Your Diet

Lentils are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. First, they’re packed with protein, making them a great meatless option. Next, they’re full of fiber, which helps keep you full and supports digestion. In addition, lentils are rich in iron and folate, which are essential for energy and overall health. They’re also low in fat, making them a heart-healthy choice.

Crockpot Lentil Soup is a delicious way to enjoy these benefits. You can easily add veggies like carrots, celery, and tomatoes for extra vitamins. Plus, lentils cook perfectly in a crockpot, absorbing all the flavors of the broth and spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

How a Crockpot Simplifies Soup Preparation

Using a crockpot is like having a kitchen helper. First, you toss in all the ingredients. Next, you set the timer and let it do the work. Then, you come back to a perfectly cooked meal. It’s that easy!

Crockpot Lentil Soup is perfect for busy days. You don’t need to stand over the stove or worry about burning anything. Just add your lentils, veggies, and spices, and let the crockpot work its magic. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since you only use one pot.

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Lentil Soup

Key Vegetables and Spices to Enhance Flavor

The secret to a tasty Crockpot Lentil Soup is in the veggies and spices. First, start with onions, garlic, and carrots for a sweet, savory base. Next, add celery and tomatoes for extra depth. Then, spice it up with cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili powder for a little kick.

You can also toss in leafy greens like spinach or kale at the end for a pop of color and nutrients. The best part? These ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly.

Substitutes for Common Allergens or Dietary Restrictions

If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! Crockpot Lentil Soup is super flexible. For example, you can swap regular broth for a gluten-free or low-sodium version. If you’re avoiding nightshades, skip the tomatoes and add a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

Here are some easy swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free broth.
• Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and skip added salt.
• Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Nut-Free: Skip garnishes like nuts or seeds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Crockpot Lentil Soup

Preparing Ingredients for Optimal Cooking

Prepping for Crockpot Lentil Soup is simple. First, rinse your lentils to remove any dirt. Next, chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces. Then, measure out your spices and broth.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Rinse 1 cup of lentils.
• Chop 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks.
• Mince 3 garlic cloves.
• Measure 4 cups of broth and 1 teaspoon each of cumin and paprika.

Setting Your Crockpot for the Best Results

Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to cook. First, add everything to the crockpot. Next, stir to combine. Then, set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Here’s a handy cooking guide:

Creative Serving Ideas for Lentil Soup

Pairing Your Soup with Delicious Sides

Crockpot Lentil Soup tastes even better with the right sides. First, try warm crusty bread or garlic toast. Next, a fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. Then, you can also serve it with a side of rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.

Here are some pairing ideas:

• Bread: Crusty baguette or whole-grain rolls.
• Salad: Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
• Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, or couscous.

Storing and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Lentil Soup is just as good the next day. First, let it cool completely before storing. Next, transfer it to an airtight container. Then, keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Here’s how to reheat:

• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezer: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Enjoy your delicious, hassle-free Crockpot Lentil Soup!

Now that you know why Crockpot Lentil Soup is a total game-changer, let’s roll up our sleeves and turn those simple ingredients into a cozy, delicious masterpiece—ready, set, cook!

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients for this cozy Crockpot Lentil Soup. Each one plays a special role in making this dish flavorful and hearty.

The Base

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – For a rich, smooth start.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds sweet, savory depth.
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced – Brings natural sweetness and color.
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced – Provides a fresh, earthy crunch.

The Flavor Boosters

• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning – Warm, herby goodness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – A smoky, irresistible kick.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – A hint of spice.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – The flavor powerhouse.

The Star of the Show

• 1 ½ cups French green lentils or brown lentils – Packed with protein and fiber.

The Saucy Goodness

• 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (15 ounces) – Smoky and tangy.
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 ounces) – Thick and rich.
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth – The liquid gold that ties it all together.

The Finishing Touches

• Parmesan rind (optional) – Adds a savory, cheesy depth.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – Brightens the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar – Balances the acidity.

For Serving

Grated Parmesan – The perfect cheesy finish.

Chopped fresh parsley – A fresh, herby garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s turn these ingredients into a delicious Crockpot Lentil Soup! Follow these easy steps for a stress-free cooking experience.

Step 1: Sauté the veggies – First, heat olive oil in a skillet. Next, add onions, carrots, and celery. Then, cook until softened. This step builds the soup’s flavor base.

Step 2: Add spices and garlic – Toss in Italian seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Also, add minced garlic. Stir until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine everything in the crockpot – Transfer the sautéed veggies to the crockpot. Then, add lentils, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. If using, drop in the Parmesan rind.

Step 4: Cook low and slow – Set your crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with vinegar and sugar – Before serving, stir in red wine vinegar and sugar. This adds a bright, balanced finish.

Serving

Your Crockpot Lentil Soup is ready to shine! Here’s how to serve it like a pro.

This recipe serves 6-8 people. First, ladle the soup into bowls. Next, sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan. Also, pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips and Hacks

Here are some handy tips to make your Crockpot Lentil Soup even better.

Prep ahead – Chop your veggies the night before to save time.

Swap lentils – Use brown lentils if you can’t find French green lentils.

Boost flavor – Add a bay leaf or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.

Store smart – Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 ½ cups
Calories: 250
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 10g

Please note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands or portion sizes.

Prep Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes

Prep time may vary slightly based on your chopping speed and crockpot settings.

What to Serve with Crockpot Lentil Soup

• Sausage, Kale, & White Bean Soup – A hearty and flavorful pairing for a soup-filled meal.
• No-Oven Stovetop Bread – Fresh, warm bread to soak up the rich flavors of lentil soup.
• Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing and crunchy side to balance the hearty soup.
• Southern Cornbread – A classic side with a slightly sweet and crumbly texture.
• Easy Pear Salad – Light, fresh, and slightly sweet—perfect for complementing savory soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Savor the Comfort of Homemade Crockpot Lentil Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Crockpot Lentil Soup to warm your heart and fill your belly. First, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils, veggies, and spices. Next, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. Then, you’ll love how the flavors come together into something truly delicious.

This soup is perfect for busy days or cozy nights. Also, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can change it however you like, adding your favorite veggies or spices. It’s like a fun little challenge to make it your own!

If you love comforting soups, you’ll also enjoy Grandmother’s Potato Soup, a nostalgic delight that’s creamy and rich. Or, try the classic French Onion Soup, with its savory broth and gooey cheese topping.

So, grab your crockpot and give this recipe a try. You’re going to love how simple and tasty it is. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, Crockpot Lentil Soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every comforting bite!