Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Ideas

I love coming home to the rich aroma of a hearty soup bubbling away in my crockpot. This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup is not just easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy white beans creates a comforting dish that's perfect for any day of the week. As the ingredients simmer together, they develop a depth of flavor that is simply amazing. I can't think of a better way to warm up on a chilly evening.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:45:36.371Z

When I first tried this soup, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into something so flavorful. Using a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a vibrant, delicious bowl of soup. It's a great dish to start cooking in the morning and just let it do its thing throughout the day.

I also found that adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving really brightens up the flavor. It creates a lovely balance with the earthy beans and sweet tomatoes. Trust me, it’s a must-try addition!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and vibrant tomato flavor enhanced by fresh basil
Creamy white beans add heartiness and protein
Effortless slow-cooking method—just set it and forget it!

      

Ingredient Insights

The base of this soup relies heavily on the quality of the tomatoes you choose. Fresh, ripe tomatoes will add a brightness that complements the basil perfectly, while canned tomatoes are equally convenient and can provide a rich depth of flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, consider roasting them beforehand to intensify their sweetness. On the other hand, if canned tomatoes are your choice, opt for those without added preservatives for the best flavor.

White beans not only provide protein but also contribute a creamy texture that thickens the soup naturally. Cannellini or great northern beans are excellent choices for this recipe. If you're looking for a lower-sodium option, consider cooking dry beans in advance and purchasing low-sodium vegetable broth. This way, you can control the flavor and healthiness of your soup more effectively.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot elevates their flavor significantly. Aim for a golden translucence in the onions, which takes about 5 minutes on medium heat. This step caramelizes the natural sugars in the onions, enhancing the overall sweetness of your soup. If you're pressed for time, you can skip this step, but it's worth it for the added flavor profile.

While the soup cooks, it’s important to resist the urge to stir it frequently. Allowing the ingredients to settle in the crockpot helps them meld together better over time. If you find the soup too thick after cooking, simply stir in additional vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency before serving. This can be a great way to adjust for leftovers if they thicken after refrigerating.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup is wonderful as a standalone meal, but it can also be paired with a side salad or crusty whole-grain bread for a complete dining experience. Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top just before serving can elevate the flavors even more. This soup also makes a delightful base for additional veggies; consider adding spinach or zucchini during the last hour of cooking for some extra nutrition.

If you have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low in a saucepan or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it just as delicious, if not better, upon reheating.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine in the Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The soup will thicken and the flavors will deepen as it cooks.

Finish and Serve

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding a bay leaf while cooking. Just remember to remove it before serving. Pair this soup with crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Tips for Customization

Feel free to experiment with herbs in this recipe. While basil and oregano are classic choices, adding a pinch of thyme or rosemary can introduce additional layers of flavor that complement the tomatoes wonderfully. Try using fresh herbs instead of dried when available, as they can bring a freshness that’s hard to replicate. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to achieve the same impact as dried.

If you're looking for a spicier kick, incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can perfectly balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and beans. You can also switch up the beans; chickpeas or even lentils could add an interesting texture and flavor twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your soup is too acidic, which can sometimes happen with canned tomatoes, a teaspoon of sugar can help cut the acidity and bring a more balanced flavor. Another option is to add a pinch of baking soda, but do so sparingly, as it can affect the overall taste. Be sure to taste as you adjust, so the flavors stay in harmony.

In cases where you might accidentally over-salt the soup, adding an additional cup of broth along with more beans can dilute the saltiness effectively. Alternatively, you might toss in a few raw potatoes while cooking; they will absorb excess salt. Remove them before serving for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just be sure to peel and dice them before adding to the crockpot.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with a salad or some crusty bread for dipping!