Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Lentil Soup Recipe – Easy, Hearty, and Healthy
Looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and nutritious dinner idea? This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Lentil Soup is the perfect solution. Made with pantry staples and packed with plant-based protein, this easy crockpot recipe will become a regular in your meal rotation.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to prepare this comforting soup: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for customizing it to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Lentil Soup
-
Minimal Ingredients: Just 5 main ingredients!
-
Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work.
-
Budget-Friendly: Affordable and filling.
-
Healthy: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant protein.
-
Customizable: Easy to adapt to your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
Gather these 5 simple ingredients to get started:
-
1 cup raw lentils, rinsed well
-
4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium if preferred)
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
-
1 onion, chopped
-
2 carrots, sliced
-
Optional: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your slow cooker lentil soup:
1. Prepare the Lentils
Start by rinsing the lentils under cool running water. This removes any dust or debris and improves the texture. Drain well.
2. Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the rinsed lentils directly into the slow cooker insert.
Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots on top.
3. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth.
Next, add the can of diced tomatoes, including all the juices (this provides extra flavor).
4. Stir to Combine
Use a spoon to gently stir all the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
5. Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, or until the lentils are soft and tender.
6. Season and Serve
Before serving, give the soup a good stir.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired.
Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Here are some ways you can customize your 5-Ingredient Lentil Soup:
Add Extra Flavor:
-
Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin or curry powder for a warming spice.
-
Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Make it Creamy:
-
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks.
-
Or blend it fully for a silky, smooth soup.
Add Greens:
-
Toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully into the soup.
Make it Heartier:
-
Stir in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or turkey for added protein.
Garnish Ideas:
-
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro
-
A drizzle of olive oil
-
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan (if not vegan)
Storage and Reheating
Store: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cook this soup on high?
A: Yes! Cook on HIGH for about 3–4 hours, but low and slow yields the best flavor and tender texture.
Q: Can I use green or red lentils?
A: You can! Just know that red lentils break down more and create a softer, almost pureed soup, while green or brown lentils hold their shape better.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Lentil Soup proves that delicious, wholesome meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready to enjoy any night of the week.