When it comes to cooking, many of us are looking for ways to make mealtime easier and more convenient. One way to do this is by using a slow cooker, also known as a crockpot. With its ability to cook a variety of dishes over a long period of time, the crockpot has become a staple in many kitchens.
But what if you’re short on time or ingredients? The good news is that there are many delicious and easy-to-make soup recipes that require only 4 main ingredients. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different 4-ingredient crockpot soup recipes that are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
From creamy and cheesy soups to spicy and savory ones, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal solution.
Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with this rich and satisfying soup that combines the natural sweetness of broccoli with the creaminess of cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in milk and grated cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Potato and Leek Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the rich flavors of potatoes, leeks, and garlic, you’ll be sure to warm up with every spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of spicy and savory, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup combines the comfort of chicken with the crunch of tortilla strips and the warmth of spices, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a satisfying bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chicken; cook until browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Add bell pepper; cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Add tortilla strips; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until crispy.
9. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with a hint of cream, creating a rich and comforting meal perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in olive oil and chopped basil (if using).
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender beef, creamy barley, and a medley of vegetables to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add barley, broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Corn Chowder Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and savory spices. A warm and comforting bowl on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, potato, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in milk to achieve desired consistency.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made with red lentils, carrots, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, carrots, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a classic bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1/2 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, noodles, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. This vegetable-packed recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, green beans, and tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, and basil.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Split Pea and Ham Soup is made with tender split peas, flavorful ham, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the split peas, ham, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy mushroom soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin and Coconut Soup
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of coconut, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, pumpkin, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the nutritious power of kale, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the cannellini beans and chopped kale to the pot. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Rice Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables, all in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Tomato Soup
A delicious and healthy soup that combines the flavors of zucchini, tomato, and herbs, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped zucchini and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer it to a blender in batches).
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add a creamy touch.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup recipe combines tender beef with a variety of colorful vegetables, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, then add back in the browned beef.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including browning time)
Clam Chowder Soup
A classic recipe that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (you can use canned or fresh)
• 1 cup clam juice
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, milk, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Add diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Ginger Soup
Warm up with this vibrant and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy kick of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups carrot juice (or 2 pounds chopped fresh carrots)
– 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the carrot juice or chopped carrots, grated ginger, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these deliciously easy crockpot soup recipes, all featuring just 4 ingredients! From creamy and comforting to spicy and savory, there’s something for everyone. Try Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Creamy Potato and Leek Soup, or Spicy Black Bean Soup for a flavorful fix. Or go classic with Chicken Tortilla Soup, Beef and Barley Soup, or Chicken Noodle Soup. With these quick and easy recipes, you can have a delicious soup ready to devour in no time.
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