Prepare to indulge in a cozy and satisfying meal with Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup, a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, hearty beans, and flavorful seasonings. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for chilly days when you’re craving something warm and nourishing. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply looking for a comforting meal to enjoy on your own, Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup is sure to hit the spot. Let’s explore how to make this delicious recipe and warm up from the inside out!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 carrots, small diced
- 1 onion, small diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 15.5-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15.5-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15.5-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 1 to 2 quarts water
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Beans: To the slow cooker, add the diced carrots, diced onion, minced garlic, kidney beans, cannellini beans, and black beans. Stir to combine.
- Pour in Diced Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the slow cooker. Stir again to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Season the Soup: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and salt over the soup mixture in the slow cooker. Stir once more to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Add Water: Pour enough water into the slow cooker to cover all the ingredients by at least an inch. The exact amount of water you’ll need will depend on the size of your slow cooker and your desired soup consistency.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is done cooking, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro, if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious flavors of Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, celery, and diced tomatoes are all great additions to this soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, Cajun seasoning, or other herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup, omit the beans and use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and spinach instead. Increase the amount of ground beef to make the soup more filling, and use keto-friendly seasonings and broth.
- Low Carb Version: For a lower carb option, reduce the amount of beans used in the recipe or omit them altogether. You can also replace some of the beans with low-carb alternatives such as green beans or chickpeas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may have a slightly different flavor and texture compared to ground beef.
Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! To make Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup on the stovetop, follow the same instructions but simmer the soup in a large pot over low heat for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I add pasta to this soup? A: While this recipe doesn’t call for pasta, you can certainly add cooked pasta such as macaroni or small shells to the soup during the last 15 to 20 minutes of cooking time if desired.
Q: What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup? A: This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado for added flavor and creaminess.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days. With its savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Soup is a delicious and nourishing option that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of this hearty soup!
