Healthy Crockpot White Bean Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans (drained and rinsed); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion (chopped); 3 carrots (sliced); 3 celery stalks (sliced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups spinach (fresh); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I often find joy in making simple, wholesome meals, and this Healthy Crockpot White Bean Soup is one of my favorites. With a blend of fresh vegetables and hearty beans, it provides both nutrition and satisfaction. The slow-cooking method really allows the flavors to marry beautifully, lending a deep taste that I truly enjoy. Whenever I'm busy or need a comforting dish, this soup comes to the rescue, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s perfect for meal prep too, as the leftovers taste even better!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:22:06.049Z

I remember the first time I made this Healthy Crockpot White Bean Soup; I was surprised at how easily it came together. It quickly became a staple in my home. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its straightforward preparation but also in the nutritious ingredients that come together to create a cozy dish. The beans are not just protein-rich; they also add a delightful creaminess without the need for dairy.

As the soup simmers for hours in the crockpot, I often find myself experimenting with different spices and herbs. I once added a splash of lemon juice toward the end of cooking, and it brightened the flavors beautifully. This simple tip has become a must-try for me, and I love how it lifts the overall taste of the soup while keeping it healthy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and hearty with a satisfying bean base
Easy to make and perfect for meal prepping
Packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The white beans form the hearty base of this soup, providing both a creamy texture and a substantial source of protein. Using canned white beans like cannellini or great northern saves time, but if you're interested in a richer flavor, you could cook your beans from scratch. Soak them overnight and boil for about an hour until tender before adding them to the crockpot. Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less broth as desired.

Fresh vegetables create the backbone of this dish, with onions, carrots, and celery providing a classic mirepoix. This trio not only enhances the soup's flavor but also adds natural sweetness and depth. When chopping your vegetables, aim for even pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. For a pop of color and additional nutrition, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini to the mix—just chop them to a similar size as the other ingredients.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cooking on low for eight hours allows the flavors to really penetrate through the beans and vegetables. If time is short and you need it done quicker, you can set the crockpot on high for about four hours. Just keep an eye on it and adjust the liquid as necessary to prevent the soup from becoming too thick or losing flavor. The goal is to have the vegetables tender and the beans perfectly creamy, both of which indicate it’s done.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, adding the spinach not only brightens the dish but also preserves its nutrient value. Cooked spinach can lose some of its vibrant color and nutritional content if overcooked, so gently stirring it is optimal. You’ll know it’s ready when it has wilted but remains a vibrant green. If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to five days in the fridge or freeze for future meals.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for a delightful cooking experience.

Main Ingredients

2 cans white beans (drained and rinsed)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 onion (chopped)
3 carrots (sliced)
3 celery stalks (sliced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups spinach (fresh)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust any seasonings to your preference before serving!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious soup.

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and rinse the beans.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add all ingredients, except for the spinach, to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.

Set the Crockpot

Pour in the vegetable broth and season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.

Add Spinach

In the last 30 minutes, gently stir in the spinach and allow it to wilt.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

This soup is fantastic served with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot White Bean Soup can serve as a comforting main course or a robust starter. For a heartier meal, pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. If you want to elevate the presentation, top each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

If you’re serving guests, consider setting up a topping bar. Offer a variety of toppings like avocado slices, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This personalization allows for a fun and interactive dining experience while catering to different tastes.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. You can easily experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your preferences. For example, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a gentle heat, or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar can add depth and tang. You might also try incorporating different legumes or grains, such as farro or quinoa, to change the texture and nutritional profile.

If you're looking for a creamier version, consider blending a portion of the soup once it's cooked. You can use an immersion blender right in the crockpot for convenience or transfer to a stand blender in batches. Just blend until smooth, leaving some texture from the beans and vegetables for a delightful contrast. This method not only enhances the richness of the dish but can also make it more appealing for children or picky eaters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use dried beans instead?

Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them according to package instructions before adding to the crockpot.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the crockpot for an extra kick.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free!