When the chilly winds of winter start to blow, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a hearty soup simmering away in the slow cooker. This Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey not only fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma reminiscent of cozy campfires, but it also delivers warmth and comfort in every bowl. I discovered this recipe on a busy day when I needed something nutritious yet low on fuss, and it has since become a beloved staple in my home.
Imagine a medley of colors and textures from various beans, perfectly complemented by lean ground turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a hint of smoky flavor from liquid smoke. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a nurturing hug in a bowl that keeps me satisfied and energized throughout the day. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely win hearts and keep the fast food at bay!
Why is Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey a Crowd Favorite?
Comforting and Hearty: This soup wraps you in a warm embrace, making it perfect for cold days.
Simple Preparation: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic—no slaving over the stove!
Nutrient-Packed: Packed with lean protein and a rainbow of vegetables, it’s both wholesome and filling.
Smoky Flavor: The addition of liquid smoke infuses a delightful campfire aroma, setting it apart from ordinary soups.
Versatile Variety: Easily swap in your favorite proteins or veggies, so you can create seasonal variations with ease.
Enjoy serving this dish with warm cornbread or crusty rolls for the ultimate comfort meal!
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• 20 oz Bean Soup Mix – Provides the soup foundation with a variety of beans that cook beautifully together.
• 8 cups Water – Use to adjust the soup’s thickness; more water yields a lighter broth.
• 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes – Balances acidity and sweetness in the soup; using Cento brand enhances the flavor.
For the Protein and Veggies
• 3.5 cups Cooked Turkey – Lean protein that lends heartiness; ensure it’s diced into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking.
• 2 Carrots – Adds a natural sweetness; chop them into 1/4-inch rounds for the best texture.
• 1 Onion – Freshly chopped onion creates aromatic depth; aim for 1/4-inch pieces.
• 2 Celery Stalks – Introduces freshness; slice them into 1/4-inch pieces for that crunch.
• 1 Poblano Pepper – Provides a hint of heat; remember to dice after removing the seeds.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper – A sweet flavor booster that gives a lovely pop of color; prepare it like the poblano.
Seasoning Essentials
• 1.5 tsp Oregano – Dried oregano offers a burst of flavor; it’s a must in this easy Crock Pot 15 bean soup.
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper – Add according to your spice preference for a little kick.
• 2 Cloves Garlic – Mince finely for a deeper flavor; garlic is essential in warming soups.
• 1 Bay Leaf – Infuses the soup with a subtle depth; remember to remove it before serving.
• 0.5 tsp Liquid Smoke – Adds that irresistible campfire essence, enhancing the overall experience.
• 0.75 oz Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and balances richness; adjust to taste.
• Salt to Taste – Essential for flavor enhancement; start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
This Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey is designed to be both simple and satisfying, ensuring that every bite delivers warmth and comfort. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey
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Prep Vegetables: Begin by dicing carrots, onion, celery, poblano, and red bell pepper into 1/4-inch pieces. Mince the garlic finely to enhance the flavor throughout the soup.
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Rinse Beans: Place the bean soup mix in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. This will help ensure a perfect texture.
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix the rinsed beans, prepared vegetables, cooked ground turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke until well combined.
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Add Water: Pour in 8 cups of water, stirring gently to blend the ingredients. Make sure everything is evenly moistened before covering.
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Cook: Set the crock pot to HIGH and let the soup cook for about 7 hours. The beans should become tender, and the broth will turn creamy.
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Finish Soup: In the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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Serve: Ladle the warm, hearty soup into bowls and enjoy! It’s perfect served hot on a chilly day.
Optional: Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor and garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
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Rinse Beans Thoroughly: This step prevents a starchy texture in your soup. Skipping this can lead to a sticky finish.
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Timing is Key: Add crushed tomatoes and lemon juice in the final hour to avoid tough beans. This preserves their softness.
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Brown Ground Turkey: Searing the turkey before adding it to the soup enhances its flavor, making the broth richer and more appealing.
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Avoid Lid Lifting: Keeping the lid closed during cooking retains moisture and heat. Frequent opening can extend cooking time.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices or add different vegetables, like spinach or kale, to make this Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey?
Serve up something special alongside this hearty soup to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies both body and soul.
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Warm Cornbread: The sweet, tender texture of cornbread perfectly complements the savory, smoky flavors in the soup, making each bite delightful.
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Crusty Dinner Rolls: A crunchy exterior with a soft center invites you to scoop up the rich broth, enhancing your soup experience with every bite taken.
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Fresh Side Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunch and brighten your meal.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy cabbage provides a nice contrast to the earthiness of the soup, making for a delightful taste combination.
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Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creamy richness that melts beautifully atop each bowl of soup.
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Sour Cream: A dollop on top could elevate the flavors, offering a cool, creamy contrast to the hearty bean soup.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and a burst of color, enhancing both the presentation and flavor profile.
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A Glass of Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine elevates the meal’s warmth, harmonizing beautifully with the comfort food essence of the soup.
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Chocolate Brownies: End the meal on a sweet note—rich, fudgy brownies bring a satisfying conclusion, perfect for cozy evenings.
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful soup and customize it to match your family’s preferences or pantry staples!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground turkey for extra beans or lentils for a plant-based version that’s equally hearty.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which can elevate the dish with fragrant flavors.
- Texture Boost: Include diced sweet potatoes or quinoa to create a lovely texture contrast and nutty flavor profile.
- Smoke-Free Option: Replace liquid smoke with smoked paprika for a similar depth without the campfire essence.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in some cream cheese or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a rich, velvety finish.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to balance the acid from tomatoes and add depth to the overall flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Brighten up the soup with a splash of lime or orange juice just before serving for a refreshing zing.
Each variation offers a new experience, ensuring your easy crock pot soup never gets boring!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey preparations are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop vegetables and prepare the bean soup mix up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator, keeping moisture locked in to maintain their fresh flavor and texture. Additionally, you can cook the soup completely and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; the flavors will deepen as it sits. When you’re ready to enjoy, just warm the soup on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed, and savor the convenience of a homemade meal that’s just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve as it sits, making it a delicious leftover option!
- Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Thawing: For frozen soup, transfer to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating, or use the microwave on a defrost setting for quicker results. Enjoy your Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup any time!
Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting a bean soup mix?
Absolutely! When choosing a bean soup mix, look for a vibrant assortment without any broken pieces. The beans should be free from dark spots or signs of moisture—freshness is key for the best texture in your soup!
How long can I store the Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup in the fridge?
You can store this delicious soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. As it sits, the flavors deepen and become even more delightful—so it’s perfect for leftover enjoyment!
Can I freeze the Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or heat it directly from the freezer with some added liquid for moisture.
What can I do if my soup turns out too thick?
Don’t worry; it happens! If your soup is too thick, just add a bit more water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. You can also gently heat it on the stove, stirring occasionally to help loosen it up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this soup?
Very! This Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup is gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with a plant-based protein. Always check for allergies with any new ingredients you add, especially for spices or premade mixes.
What if I can’t find liquid smoke?
No problem at all! If liquid smoke is unavailable, you can replicate the smoky flavor by using smoked paprika or even a touch of barbecue sauce to give your soup that campfire essence without sacrificing taste!
Savor Hearty Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup with Ground Turkey
Equipment
- - Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 20 oz Bean Soup Mix Provides the soup foundation with a variety of beans.
- 8 cups Water Use to adjust the soup's thickness.
- 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Using Cento brand enhances the flavor.
For the Protein and Veggies
- 3.5 cups Cooked Turkey Diced into 1/2-inch pieces.
- 2 Carrots Chopped into 1/4-inch rounds.
- 1 Onion Chopped into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 2 Celery Stalks Sliced into 1/4-inch pieces.
- 1 Poblano Pepper Diced after removing the seeds.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper Prepared like the poblano.
Seasoning Essentials
- 1.5 tsp Oregano
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Add according to spice preference.
- 2 Cloves Garlic Mince finely.
- 1 Bay Leaf Remember to remove before serving.
- 0.5 tsp Liquid Smoke Adds campfire essence.
- 0.75 oz Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
- Salt To taste.
Instructions
How to Make Easy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup
- Begin by dicing carrots, onion, celery, poblano, and red bell pepper into 1/4-inch pieces. Mince the garlic finely.
- Place the bean soup mix in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold water.
- In your slow cooker, mix the rinsed beans, prepared vegetables, cooked ground turkey, bay leaf, oregano, black pepper, and liquid smoke until well combined.
- Pour in 8 cups of water, stirring gently to blend the ingredients.
- Set the crock pot to HIGH and let the soup cook for about 7 hours.
- In the last hour of cooking, stir in the crushed tomatoes and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the warm, hearty soup into bowls and enjoy!