Savory Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with rich, savory beef mingling with hearty lentils in a broth that smells like home. Picture this: your slow cooker bubbling away, filling your kitchen with an aroma so inviting that even the neighbors might mistake it for Sunday dinner at their house. hearty chicken pot pie soup The combination of tender beef and earthy lentils creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a little pick-me-up after a long day.

This soup isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia in a bowl. Think of family gatherings where everyone huddled around the table, bowls steaming and hearts full. Ideal for cold winter evenings or lazy Sunday afternoons, this Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup promises to envelop you in its warm embrace and transport you back to those cherished moments. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving seconds! For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pot roast recipe.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast: A well-marbled cut is best; it becomes tender as it cooks slowly.
• Dried Lentils: Brown or green lentils work great; no soaking required!
• Carrots: Chopped into bite-sized pieces for sweetness and texture.
• Celery: Adds crunch and depth; don’t skimp on these green beauties.
• Onion: A medium onion, diced; it forms the flavorful base of your soup. flavorful breakfast enchiladas.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and flavor profile significantly.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add acidity and brightness to balance the richness of beef.
• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still gaining deep flavor.
• Spices (Thyme, Bay Leaf, Cumin): These spices create warmth and complexity in every spoonful.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the beef into bite-sized cubes, making sure to remove excess fat. Dice the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic finely so they blend nicely into the soup.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

For an extra layer of flavor (because who doesn’t love more flavor?), heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and sear the beef cubes until they are browned on all sides—about five minutes should do it!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your trusty slow cooker, combine the seared beef (or just toss them in raw if you’re feeling rebellious), lentils, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and spices. Pour in enough beef broth to cover everything.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about eight hours or high for four hours. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells like heaven and those lentils are tender.

Step 5: Taste Test Magic

Once cooking time is up, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed—don’t be shy! This is where you can transform good soup into great soup.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle generous servings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup that warms both body and soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup, start by browning the beef in a skillet. This step enhances the flavor. chicken spinach skillet pasta Next, toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic for hours.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the lentils for beans or add extra veggies like carrots and spinach. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to personalize your flavor profile. The possibilities are endless.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the soup nice and creamy.

After making this soup one chilly evening, my neighbor knocked on my door, drawn in by that irresistible aroma wafting through our shared wall. He declared it “the best soup ever,” and I graciously accepted his compliments while secretly high-fiving myself for my culinary prowess!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup?

To make Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup, you will need lean ground beef, lentils, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and beef broth. Spices like thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper add flavor. Optional ingredients include spinach or kale for extra nutrients. Make sure to rinse the lentils before adding them to the slow cooker to remove any debris. This soup is not only hearty but also packed with protein and fiber.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup?

Cooking Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re short on time, cooking it on high heat will still yield a delicious result. Just ensure that the lentils are tender before serving. This flexibility makes it a great option for busy days.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup. Once it has cooled completely, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Freezing makes this recipe even more convenient for meal prep or busy nights.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup?

Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness. For a light option, consider offering some steamed vegetables on the side. These accompaniments enhance your dining experience without overpowering the soup’s rich flavors.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup:

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup is a nutritious and satisfying dish that combines hearty ingredients with robust flavors. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows for easy preparation and deep flavor development over time. Whether served alone or with sides like bread or salad, this soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal planning and busy days ahead. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!

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Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Beef Lentil Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender beef and earthy lentils in a rich, savory broth. This hearty soup simmers in your slow cooker, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy days, it’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. Enjoy this nourishing bowl on its own or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal that warms both body and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green), rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14 oz canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping vegetables and cubing the beef.
2. Optional: Sear the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
3. In the slow cooker, combine beef, lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, spices, and broth.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 360g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg