Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe

Crockpot lentil soup is a comforting, filling, and healthy meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and budget-friendly. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm bowl of nourishing soup.

If you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or making a cozy dish for cold weather, this recipe has you covered. Just add your ingredients to the crockpot, set it, and let it do all the work.

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Why This Crockpot Lentil Soup Is a Favorite

Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and minerals. They’re cheap, easy to store, and quick to cook. This recipe uses common pantry staples and turns them into a tasty, wholesome meal.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to make: Just chop, dump, and go. No complicated steps.
• Healthy and hearty: High in protein and fiber with no added sugar. – cookieandkate.com
• Vegan and gluten-free friendly: Naturally plant-based and adaptable.
• Great for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
• Flexible: Use what you have—swap veggies, spices, or add proteins.

You Can Also Try This One-Pot Lentil Rice Pilaf for Meal Prep

Tip: Green or brown lentils hold their shape best in a crockpot. Red lentils become soft and creamy.

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Ingredients for Crockpot Lentil Soup

You don’t need fancy ingredients. Just a few fresh vegetables, spices, and lentils will make a rich, filling soup.

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (add at the end)
• 1 small sweet potato or butternut squash, cubed
• 1 teaspoon turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost – Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound. Studies show it may help reduce inflammation and boost immunity. (Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health – NCBI)
• A squeeze of lemon juice before serving
• ½ cup coconut milk for a creamy version

Can you put raw lentils in a crockpot?
Yes. You can put dry, unsoaked lentils directly into the crockpot. They will cook fully in the slow cooker.

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Crockpot Lentil Soup

This is a dump-and-go recipe. You don’t even need to sauté the veggies first, but doing so can add extra flavor.

Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients

• Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
• Mince the garlic.

Should I soak lentils before slow cooking?
No. Soaking is not necessary. But rinsing them removes any dust or small stones.

Step 2 – Add Everything to the Crockpot

Add these into your slow cooker:

• Lentils
• Onion, carrot, celery, and garlic
• Diced tomatoes with their juice
• Broth or water
• Olive oil and all spices

Stir gently to mix. Add the bay leaf on top.

You Can Try This Budget-Friendly Lentil Stew for Lazy Weeknights

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Step 3 – Set It and Let It Cook

• Cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
• No need to stir unless you’re home.

Lentils should be tender but not mushy. If you’re using red lentils, they’ll become soft and creamy.

Can lentils overcook in a slow cooker?
Yes. They can become mushy if cooked too long or if the cooker runs hot. Stick to the time range and check the texture.

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Step 4 – Finish and Serve

Before serving:

• Remove the bay leaf.
• Add salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
• Stir in spinach or kale if using, and let it wilt for 5 minutes.

You can leave the soup chunky or use an immersion blender to purée part of it for a creamier texture.

Try This: Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a sprinkle of grated parmesan (if not vegan).

Also, Find the Secret to a Creamy Yellow Lentil Stew in Your Slow Cooker

Tips for the Best Crockpot Lentil Soup

Make your soup even better with these easy tips:

• Use brown or green lentils: They hold their shape and give the soup a nice texture.
• Avoid early salt: Add salt near the end to prevent tough lentils.
• Stir in greens last: Kale, spinach, or chard should be added just before serving.
• Add acid for balance: Lemon juice or vinegar brightens the flavor.
• Blend some of the soup: Use an immersion blender for a creamier texture—leave some chunks for contrast.

Pro Tip: Want deeper flavor? Sauté the onions, garlic, and spices in olive oil before adding them to the crockpot.

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Easy Variations to Try

This lentil soup is super flexible. Try one of these fun twists to suit your taste.

Mediterranean Style

• Add oregano, basil, and a splash of red wine vinegar
• Top with feta cheese and parsley

Indian-Inspired

• Add turmeric, curry powder, and a pinch of cayenne
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of plain yogurt

Creamy Coconut Version

• Stir in ½ cup canned coconut milk at the end
• Finish with lime juice and chopped mint

With Protein

• Add diced cooked chicken, turkey, sausage, or ham
• Or try tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version

Common Question: Can I freeze lentil soup?
Yes. Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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How to Store and Reheat

Make this soup ahead and enjoy it all week.

• Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Warm on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or water

You Can Get Here the Best Moroccan Lentil Soup Recipe with Bold Spices

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Nutrition and Health Benefits

Lentil soup is packed with:

• Plant-based protein: Builds and repairs muscle
• Fiber: Supports digestion and helps you feel full
• Iron and potassium: Support energy and heart health
• Low in fat and calories: Great for weight management

A typical bowl (1.5 cups) has:

• About 250–300 calories
• 15–18 grams of protein
• 12–15 grams fiber
• Very low in saturated fat and added sugars- According to the USDA FoodData Central, cooked lentils are rich in plant-based protein, iron, and dietary fiber.

Final Thoughts on Crockpot Lentil Soup

Crockpot lentil soup is the kind of recipe that works for everyone. It’s warm, easy, and full of real, good-for-you ingredients. Whether you keep it simple or try one of the flavorful variations, this soup will always deliver.

It’s great for busy days, budget cooking, or healthy eating. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day.