Fall in love with this easy, creamy vegetable soup that practically makes itself in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this soup is a hug in a bowl.
Why This Recipe Works
- Set it and forget it: The slow cooker does all the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
- Creamy without the cream: Blended vegetables give this soup its luxurious texture without heavy cream.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- Comfort food: Warm, creamy, and satisfying, this soup is the definition of comfort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender
Instructions
Prep Your Vegetables
Start by dicing all your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. The smaller the dice, the quicker they’ll cook, but aim for about 1/2 inch pieces for the perfect texture. This is also a great time to mince your garlic if you haven’t already.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Add the diced carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, and minced garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme. Give everything a good stir to combine. The broth should just cover the vegetables; if not, add a bit more broth or water.
Cook on Low
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the vegetables are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. The long, slow cooking process deepens the flavors and makes the vegetables melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Blend for Creaminess
Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the slow cooker until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker.
Make the Roux
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until it’s bubbly and golden. Slowly whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir this into the blended soup to add richness and creaminess.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider roasting your vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step adds depth and sweetness to the soup. If you’re short on time, frozen vegetables can be a great shortcut, just adjust the cooking time as needed. For those who like a bit of texture, reserve some of the cooked vegetables before blending and stir them back in at the end. And don’t forget, this soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for a rainy day.
Recipe Variations
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or beans for a heartier soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapenos for a little heat.
- Change the vegetables: Swap in cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk and olive oil instead of milk and butter for a vegan version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup on the stove instead?
Absolutely! While the slow cooker offers convenience, you can simmer the soup on the stove over low heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Follow the same steps for blending and adding the roux.
How can I thicken the soup without flour?
For a gluten-free option, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickener. Mix a tablespoon with a little cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the soup after blending.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them first; just add them directly to the slow cooker. Keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier.
Summary
This slow cooker creamy vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, it’s sure to become a favorite.
