slow cooker minestrone recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker minestrone recipe
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The Best slow cooker minestrone recipe

I have always been a big fan of hearty soups, and minestrone is one of my favorites. It is a classic Italian soup that is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. I love how it is hearty and filling, and it is perfect for a cold winter day. I have always made this soup on the stove, but I found a slow cooker version a few years ago and have never looked back.

It is so easy to throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning and have a warm and comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day. My family loves it too, and it is always a hit with my kids. I love that it is so versatile and you can add whatever vegetables you have on hand. It is also a great way to use up leftovers.

My family loves it and it is a great way to get some extra vegetables in their diet. It is perfect for a family gathering or a busy weeknight. It is also a great way to meal prep for the week. I usually make a big batch and freeze some for later.

It is always a good idea for any occasion. It is also a great way to get some extra vegetables in your diet. It is also a great way to use up leftovers. It is also a good way to get some extra vegetables in your diet.

It is also a great way to use up leftovers. It is also a good way to get some extra vegetables in your diet. It is also a great way to use up leftovers. The slow cooker makes it so easy to make, and it is always a hit with my family.

I love that it is so versatile and you can add whatever vegetables you have on hand. I love that it is so versatile and you can add whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Slow Cooker Minestrone

Slow Cooker Minestrone

4.5 from 1419 votes

A comforting Italian soup packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This slow cooker version is perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hrs 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 zucchini, diced

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
6Add diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, ditalini pasta, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.
7Stir well to combine.
8Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
9About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the spinach and zucchini.
10Cook until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender, 20-30 minutes.
11Remove the bay leaf before serving.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans if you prefer. For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This recipe is also great for meal prepping. It reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Minestrone Works

This slow cooker minestrone recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It is perfect for a family gathering or a busy weeknight.

It is also a great way to meal prep for the week. I usually make a big batch and freeze some for later.

It is always a hit with my family. I love that it is so versatile and you can add whatever vegetables you have on hand.

It is also a great way to get some extra vegetables in your diet. It is also a great way to use up leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Minestrone

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of beans in this recipe. Cannellini and kidney beans are commonly used, but you can also use white beans, chickpeas, or even black beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian. However, if you want to make it vegan, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. Also, make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze leftover minestrone?

Yes, you can freeze leftover minestrone. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Chop the spinach and add it to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. It will wilt and cook down quickly.

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a pressure cooker. Follow the same steps, but cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Stir in the spinach and zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.

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