There’s a certain coziness that wraps around you like a warm blanket when the first chilly winds of autumn blow in. It’s the perfect time to gather around the dinner table with a steaming bowl of homemade goodness, and this Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey is just what you need. Picture this: you stroll in after a long day, and the door swings open to reveal the rich, inviting aroma of smoky beans and savory turkey that has been slow-cooking all afternoon. It’s comforting, it’s nourishing, and best of all, it’s effortlessly simple to prepare!
With a colorful array of beans bringing delightful textures and a burst of flavors, this hearty dish satisfies your comfort food cravings while keeping things healthy. Toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do all the heavy lifting! You’ll soon discover that a bowl of this soul-warming soup not only warms your body but also brings family and friends together for shared moments and hearty conversations. Ready to dive into the ultimate cold-weather dish? Let’s get to cooking!
Why is this Easy Crock Pot recipe special?
Comforting Warmth: There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this recipe delivers just that with its rich, smoky flavor.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss your ingredients into the crock pot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Healthy and Hearty: Loaded with lean turkey and a variety of beans, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have at home, making it adaptable for all tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinner or gatherings, this soup creates a cozy atmosphere and is sure to impress your guests.
Learn more about the advantages of using a slow cooker, as these devices can elevate your cooking experience even further!
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• 20 oz bean soup mix (Hurst’s HamBeens 15 Bean Soup) – This diverse blend of beans provides complementary flavors and textures.
• 3.5 cups cooked turkey (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) – Using lean turkey adds protein while keeping the dish healthy.
• 1 onion (finely chopped, about 1/4-inch pieces) – A key ingredient that adds depth to your soup’s flavor profile.
• 2 carrots (1/4-inch rounds) – These add sweetness and vibrant color to the soup; chop uniformly for consistent cooking.
• 2 celery stalks (1/4-inch pieces) – Provides a crunchy texture and balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1 poblano pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) – This mild pepper introduces a touch of heat and unique flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) – Adds sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the dish visually and taste-wise.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Brings an aromatic essence that boosts the overall flavor.
• 1.5 tsp oregano – This herb ties all the flavors together, enhancing the soup’s complexity.
• 0.5 tsp black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth to round out the tastes.
• 1 bay leaf – Infuses the soup with herbal undertones for extra depth.
For the Cooking Liquid
• 8 cups water – This forms the broth, pulling all the flavors together during cooking.
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes (Cento recommended for sweetness) – Adds acidity and natural sweetness to balance the soup; remember to stir in at the end!
• 0.5 tsp liquid smoke (Colgin brand recommended) – A small amount brings that coveted campfire flavor; use sparingly as it’s potent.
• 0.75 oz lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the soup; stir in just before serving.
• Salt to taste – An essential ingredient to enhance and bring out the best flavors in your Easy Crock Pot Soup.
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by dicing your carrots, onion, celery, and both peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic to maximize its aromatic flavor, ensuring all components cook evenly.
Rinse the Beans: Take your bean soup mix and rinse it thoroughly under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This removes excess starch, preventing a gummy texture in your delicious soup.
Combine Ingredients: In your trusty crock pot, add the rinsed beans along with the chopped vegetables, diced ground turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke.
Pour Water: Carefully pour in 8 cups of water, giving everything a gentle stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Cook the Soup: Cover the crock pot and set it on HIGH for 7 hours. Your soup should be bubbling and fragrant; the beans will become tender and flavorful.
Add Tomatoes and Lemon Juice: In the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice. This will enhance the flavor profile while keeping the beans soft.
Adjust Consistency: If you find the soup too thick, simply thin it out with a bit of water. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered on LOW for 15-20 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your hearty soup hot, garnished with delicious optional toppings to elevate its taste!
Optional: Top with chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot Soup
- Rinse Beans Thoroughly: Always rinse your bean mix under cold water to remove excess starch, avoiding a gummy texture in your Easy Crock Pot soup.
- Stir in Tomatoes Late: Add crushed tomatoes and lemon juice in the last hour of cooking to keep beans tender; adding them too early can toughen them.
- Brown Your Protein: Brown the ground turkey before adding it to the crock pot to enhance flavor and reduce moisture for a better texture.
- Avoid Lid Lifting: Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking; it lets out heat and can extend cooking time for your comforting soup.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap beans or veggies based on what you have; it keeps your Easy Crock Pot soup exciting and versatile!
Crock Pot Variations to Explore
There’s so much joy in putting your personal touch on a beloved recipe, so let’s make this Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup even more delightful!
Different Beans: Experiment with varied beans like black beans or chickpeas for a unique flavor combination. Each bean brings its own charm and texture.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave heat. Spice can elevate the comforting flavors into something exciting!
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or even some hearty mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian take that everyone will love.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. It’s a fantastic way to make the recipe more colorful and vibrant!
Herb Infusion: Try fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh twist. Their bright notes can lighten up the deep-flavored soup beautifully.
Dairy Addition: Stir in a splash of cream or some shredded cheese before serving for an extra creamy texture that feels indulgent.
Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice in place of lemon for a zesty surprise that dances on your taste buds.
Savory Smoked Flavor: Experiment with smoked paprika in place of liquid smoke for a deeply rich flavor, enhancing that comforting warmth.
These variations not only add a personal touch but also create a new experience with every pot of soup you make! Enjoy cooking and happy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can chop the vegetables and assemble the dry ingredients (beans, spices, and bay leaf) up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate everything in an airtight container. To maintain the quality, keep the rinsed beans separate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply transfer everything into the crock pot, add the water, and cook on HIGH for 7 hours. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice during the last hour, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious!
Freezer: Portion out your soup into freezer-safe containers or bags to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal taste.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the soup is too thick after freezing.
Keep it Fresh: To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing with garnishes; add fresh toppings right before serving.
What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup?
Enhance your cozy dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich, smoky flavors of this hearty soup.
Warm Cornbread: The slightly sweet and soft texture of cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory spices in the soup, making each bite a comforting delight.
Crunchy Crusty Rolls: These rolls are perfect for dipping into the thick soup, providing a satisfying crunchy contrast that enhances the overall meal.
Savory Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the meal’s richness and adds a refreshing crunch. Cucumbers and cherry tomatoes can bring a burst of color!
Sour Cream Garnish: A dollop of sour cream adds creamy richness while cooling the heat from the poblano pepper, melding beautifully with the dish.
Shredded Cheese: Sprinkling some sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack on top introduces a delightful creaminess and extra depth of flavor as it melts into the warm soup.
Chili-Lime Tortilla Chips: Use these crispy bites as dippers, bringing a zesty kick and enjoyable crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soup’s hearty texture.
Herbed Couscous: This light and fluffy side soaks up excess broth and can be flavored with fresh herbs, adding an aromatic touch that elevates the meal.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled white wine pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup while enhancing your dining experience.
Pumpkin Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of spiced pumpkin pie, celebrating the flavors of the season and adding warmth to your dinner table.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
What beans should I use for the soup?
You can use a store-bought bean soup mix like Hurst’s HamBeens 15 Bean Soup for convenience, or mix your own using dried beans from the bulk section. Just remember to rinse them under cold water before adding them to the pot to remove any excess starch.
How should I store the soup and how long will it last?
Once cooled, transfer your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors will actually deepen and improve, making leftovers even tastier as the days go by!
Can I freeze the soup, and what’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If the soup seems a little thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
What if I find the soup too thick after cooking?
If your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in additional water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Another option is to let it simmer uncovered on LOW for 15-20 minutes to help evaporate some of the excess liquid.
Is this soup suitable for dietary restrictions or allergies?
Sure! You can easily make this soup gluten-free by ensuring your broth and any toppings are gluten-free. For those with specific dietary preferences, feel free to substitute the ground turkey with shredded chicken, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Always check labels for allergens and adjust accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! This soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or spinach based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Just remember to chop them into uniformly-sized pieces for even cooking!
Hearty Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Anyone Can Make
Equipment
- Crock Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 20 oz bean soup mix (Hurst's HamBeens 15 Bean Soup) Diverse blend of beans.
- 3.5 cups cooked turkey (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) Lean turkey adds protein.
- 1 onion (finely chopped) Adds depth to the flavor.
- 2 carrots (1/4-inch rounds) Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks (1/4-inch pieces) Provides crunchy texture.
- 1 poblano pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) Mild pepper with unique flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces) Enhances dish visually and taste-wise.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) Boosts overall flavor.
- 1.5 tsp oregano Enhances complexity of flavors.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Adds warmth to the soup.
- 1 bay leaf Infuses herbal undertones.
For the Cooking Liquid
- 8 cups water Forms the broth.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes Adds acidity and sweetness.
- 0.5 tsp liquid smoke Brings coveted campfire flavor.
- 0.75 oz lemon juice Brightens flavors.
- Salt to taste Enhances flavors.
Instructions
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by dicing your carrots, onion, celery, and both peppers into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic to maximize its aromatic flavor.
- Rinse the Beans: Take your bean soup mix and rinse it thoroughly under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess starch.
- Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, add the rinsed beans along with the chopped vegetables, diced ground turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke.
- Pour Water: Carefully pour in 8 cups of water, giving everything a gentle stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the crock pot and set it on HIGH for 7 hours until bubbling and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Lemon Juice: In the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it with a bit of water; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered on LOW for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your hearty soup hot, garnished with optional toppings.