Imagine a bowl of warmth, brimming with vibrant vegetables, hearty pasta, and a rich, savory broth. This Slow Cooker Minestrone delivers comfort in every spoonful, perfectly balancing fresh flavors with satisfying textures. It is the ultimate fuss-free meal, gently simmering to perfection while you go about your day. Enjoy this classic Italian favorite with minimal effort, a truly wholesome dish for your family.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Minestrone Recipe
Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of a homemade Minestrone without the fuss. This recipe becomes a treasured addition to your family’s meal rotation.
- Effortless & Convenient: Prepare in minutes, then let your slow cooker create a delicious meal.
- Wholesome & Flavorful: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, developing deep, comforting flavors.
- Family Favorite: An adaptable, satisfying dish perfect for any day, bringing warmth to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Minestrone truly shines with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Think vibrant vegetables and rich, flavorful broth. Gathering fresh ingredients for your Minestrone is part of the joy.
Choose what you love, but here are my family’s staples for the best minestrone.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks Celery, diced
- 1 (28 oz) can Crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can Diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups Vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (15 oz) can Kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup Ditalini pasta (or small pasta like elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen Green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 cups fresh Spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Oregano
- 1 tsp dried Basil
- ½ tsp dried Thyme
- ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and freshly ground Black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
Substitutions & Variations
My mother always taught me to make a dish your own, and this Slow Cooker Minestrone recipe welcomes creative, healthy adjustments. Don’t hesitate to adapt it to your pantry and preferences! Every family has their own twist on classic Minestrone, and yours will too.
- Pasta Alternatives: Swap traditional pasta for whole wheat ditalini, quinoa, or brown rice pasta for a gluten-free option. For a lower-carb choice, add zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets towards the end.
- Bean Power: Experiment with different beans like chickpeas or great northern beans. Ensure they are rinsed and drained.
- Greens Galore: Instead of spinach, try kale or Swiss chard. Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking for best texture.
- Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Toss them in with the other vegetables at the beginning.
- Herb Garden: Fresh herbs are always a delight. Use fresh oregano, basil, and thyme for an even brighter flavor profile. Add them towards the end of cooking.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked, shredded chicken or turkey. For plant-based protein, consider a cup of cooked lentils (add them cooked with the beans).
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different methode.
My mother always taught me to make a dish your own, and this Slow Cooker Minestrone recipe welcomes creative, healthy adjustments. If you’re looking for more variations, try incorporating a delightful twist with this Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup recipe!
Equipment You’ll Need
Preparing this wonderful Slow Cooker Minestrone requires only a few kitchen essentials. With the right tools, crafting your perfect Minestrone becomes effortless.
- 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker: This is key for the hands-off cooking method.
- Large skillet or pot: For sautéing aromatics before adding to the slow cooker (optional but recommended for depth).
- Cutting board and sharp knife: For preparing all those fresh vegetables.
- Can opener: For your canned tomatoes and beans.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting pot of Slow Cooker Minestrone that tastes like it simmered all day. This method guarantees a truly delicious homemade Minestrone for your family.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker, beginning the foundation of your amazing Minestrone.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients (Except Pasta & Greens): Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, kidney beans, and cannellini beans to the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the vegetables to be tender and the flavors to be well-melded.
- Add Pasta & Greens: About 30-45 minutes before serving (or according to pasta package directions), add the ditalini pasta and green beans to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Finish & Serve: Cook until the pasta is al dente and the green beans are tender-crisp. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, which takes only a few minutes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the hot Slow Cooker Minestrone into bowls.
- Garnish: Serve immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting pot of Slow Cooker Minestrone that tastes like it simmered all day. For a delicious side dish to complement your meal, consider making Bacon-wrapped Pineapple Mozzarella Rings for an unexpected flavor combination!
Pro Tips for Success
To elevate your Slow Cooker Minestrone from simply good to truly exceptional, consider these tried-and-true techniques. These tips will ensure your Minestrone is always a hit, a true testament to slow cooking.
- Sauté Your Aromatics: While optional, taking a few minutes to sauté the onion, carrots, and celery before adding them to the slow cooker develops a deeper, richer flavor base. This caramelizes the vegetables and releases their natural sugars, adding complexity to your broth.
- Pasta Timing is Key: Do not add the pasta at the beginning of the slow cooking process. Pasta will become mushy if cooked too long. Always add it in the last 30-45 minutes, ensuring it cooks to al dente perfection right before serving. Cook it separately on the stovetop and add it to individual bowls if you plan on having leftovers, preventing it from absorbing too much broth and becoming bloated.
- Seasoning Layers: Taste and adjust seasoning at multiple stages. Add salt and pepper initially, then again after the long cook, and finally just before serving. This layering ensures a well-balanced flavor profile. A splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten all the flavors.
- Fresh Herbs for Freshness: While dried herbs work wonderfully in the slow cooker, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil at the very end provides a vibrant, aromatic finish that really makes the dish pop.
- Don’t Forget the Parmesan Rind: For an extra layer of umami depth, toss a leftover Parmesan rind into the slow cooker at the beginning of the cooking process. Remove it before serving. This is a secret my Nonna always shared!
Storage & Reheating Tips
This delightful Slow Cooker Minestrone makes fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day! Proper storage guarantees you can enjoy your delicious Minestrone for days.
- Cool Properly: Allow the minestrone to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Note that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid and may soften further. If you prefer al dente pasta for leftovers, cook it separately and add to individual bowls when serving.
- Freezing: Minestrone freezes beautifully (without the pasta, if possible). Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you cooked the pasta with the soup, it might be a bit softer upon reheating, but still delicious.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
This delightful Slow Cooker Minestrone makes fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day! To satisfy your sweet tooth after this savory meal, try a creative treat like Popcorn ice cream for a unique dessert experience.
What to Serve With This Recipe
A hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Minestrone stands wonderfully on its own, but these simple additions complement its flavors and round out the meal beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: A staple! A warm, crusty whole-grain baguette or Italian bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich soup. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent option, homemade whole wheat garlic bread provides an irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of lightly roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers offers an extra boost of nutrition and a lovely texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this Slow Cooker Minestrone vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian if you use vegetable broth. To make it completely vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative for serving. It’s packed with plant-based protein from the beans, making it incredibly satisfying.
Can I add meat to my Slow Cooker Minestrone?
Yes, you certainly can! For a heartier meal, brown about ½ lb of Italian sausage or ground turkey with the onions and other aromatics before adding them to the slow cooker. You could also stir in cooked, shredded chicken during the last hour of cooking.
What if my Slow Cooker Minestrone is too thick or too thin?
If your Slow Cooker Minestrone becomes too thick, especially after adding pasta or sitting for a while, simply add more vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered on HIGH for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, or mash a portion of the beans against the side of the slow cooker to naturally thicken the broth.
Minestrone is a traditional Italian soup that features a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta or rice, creating a hearty and filling dish. The adaptability of minestrone allows for endless variations based on seasonal ingredients, making it a popular choice for both home cooks and chefs alike. Learn more about this versatile dish through a detailed Minestrone overview.
Final Thoughts
As the aroma of this comforting Slow Cooker Minestrone fills your home, you will feel warmth spreading. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of connection, a taste of heritage, and a simple joy shared around the table. My family hopes you cherish this dish as much as we do, creating beautiful memories, one delicious spoonful at a time.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The estimated nutritional values for a single serving of this wholesome Slow Cooker Minestrone ensure you are enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal.
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
Slow Cooker Minestrone
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, kidney beans, and cannellini beans to the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- About 30-45 minutes before serving, add the ditalini pasta and green beans to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Cook until the pasta is al dente and the green beans are tender-crisp. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
