11 Sauté-Free Slow-Cooker Soups You Can Prep Before Work for School Days

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Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup

Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or easy meal prep. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours, this dish is simple enough for beginner cooks yet tasty enough to impress friends and family.

The combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and fresh toppings makes it a hearty favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla strips or chips for serving
• Optional toppings: avocado, lime wedges, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Cooking Steps:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chicken broth on top of the chicken.
3. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
4. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
6. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks and stir to mix the shredded chicken with the soup.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips and your choice of optional toppings. Enjoy!

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a nourishing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, filling meal.

With an easy preparation time of around 15 minutes and a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet complex enough to deliver rich flavors that will delight your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. Place the beef cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the pearl barley, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic over the beef.
3. Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
6. Once finished, remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your hearty soup!

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a slow cooking time of 4-6 hours, it’s easy enough for beginners and delivers a rich, creamy flavor that’s sure to please.

This velvety soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer in batches to a regular blender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your creamy soup!

Vegetable Lentil Soup

Vegetable Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch option. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours, this recipe is simple and suitable for cooks of all skill levels. Packed with fiber, protein, and flavor, this soup keeps you warm and satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the rinsed lentils, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your wholesome vegetable lentil soup!

Rustic Italian Bean Soup

Rustic Italian Bean Soup is a comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for chilly evenings or as a satisfying meal any time of year. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all experience levels.

It’s packed with nutritious beans, vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making it not only hearty but also wholesome.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir everything well to guarantee even distribution of ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans and vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy your rustic Italian bean soup!

Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup

Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for warming up on cool days.

With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 6-8 hours in the slow cooker, this recipe strikes a balance between delicious comfort food and ease of preparation. It’s suitable for cooks of all experience levels, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, add the sausage and cook on high for about 10 minutes to brown it slightly, breaking it up with a spoon, or you can brown it in a skillet first and then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, broth, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. If using, stir in the chopped kale or spinach about 15 minutes before serving to wilt it.
5. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your spicy sausage and potato soup!

Classic Minestrone Soup

Classic Minestrone Soup is a hearty and nutritious Italian soup that’s packed with seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta.

It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to use any vegetables you have on hand.

With a prep time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of 4-6 hours in the slow cooker, it’s suitable for cooks of all skill levels and makes for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (such as elbow or ditalini)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes, or until softened (or sauté in a skillet first and then transfer to the slow cooker).
2. Add diced carrots, celery, zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir to mix well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the pasta and let it cook until al dente.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste, serve hot, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Enjoy your classic minestrone soup!

Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup

Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup is a warm and fragrant dish that brings together the rich flavors of pumpkin and coconut milk with a hint of curry spice.

This delightful soup is perfect for cooler weather and has a prep time of about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 4-6 hours in the slow cooker.

It’s a simple recipe that is suitable for cooks of all levels and makes for a comforting and filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh ginger for about 4-5 minutes until softened (or sauté in a skillet and transfer to the slow cooker).
2. Add the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, vegetable broth, red curry paste, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup!

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul with its savory flavors and hearty ingredients.

This timeless dish is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 6-8 hours in the slow cooker, this recipe is easy enough for cooks of any experience level to tackle.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery for about 4-5 minutes (or sauté in a skillet and transfer to the slow cooker).
2. Add the chicken breasts or thighs, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in the egg noodles and allow to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!

Savory Split Pea Soup

Savory Split Pea Soup is a nutritious and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. This delicious soup combines the earthy flavor of split peas with vegetables and aromatic seasonings—and it’s perfect for a cozy meal.

With a prep time of about 10 minutes and a slow-cooking time of 6-8 hours, this recipe is simple and satisfying for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery for about 4-5 minutes (or sauté in a skillet and transfer to the slow cooker).
2. Add the rinsed split peas, broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir everything to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the split peas are tender and creamy.
4. Remove the bay leaf before serving. For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Savory Split Pea Soup!

Cheesy Broccoli and Zucchini Soup

Cheesy Broccoli and Zucchini Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days.

This rich and flavorful soup blends tender broccoli and zucchini with cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite.

With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a slow-cooking time of 4-6 hours, this recipe is beginner-friendly and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. In the slow cooker, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes (or sauté in a skillet and transfer to the slow cooker).
2. Add the broccoli florets, chopped zucchini, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until the vegetables are tender.
4. Once cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted and well combined.
5. For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.
6. Garnish with fresh chives if desired and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Broccoli and Zucchini Soup!