Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 cup diced onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

I love making a big batch of this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup on busy days. It’s so comforting to come home to a warm, flavorful soup that’s not only hearty but also incredibly nutritious. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to let the flavors marry while I go about my day. The fresh basil truly elevates the dish, giving it a vibrant punch. This soup is perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner with friends, and I guarantee it will become your new go-to recipe.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:57:34.860Z

When I first experimented with making a bean soup in the crockpot, I didn’t expect such a flavorful outcome. I tossed together some fresh tomatoes, white beans, and aromatic herbs, and left it to simmer while I went about my day. The result was a luscious soup that had my kitchen smelling incredible! I learned that allowing the beans to soak in the tomato and basil flavors overnight yields a depth that is simply unmatched.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the flavors dramatically and balances the richness of the beans. This soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrition, making it the perfect option for a busy weeknight or a comforting lunch. I can't get enough of how good it feels to warm up with a bowl of this soup!

        Why You Will Love This Soup
        Rich, comforting flavors made easy in a slow cooker
Packed with protein and fiber from the white beans
Versatile to serve as a main or side dish

      

Ingredient Insights

The base of this soup relies heavily on the tomatoes, whether you choose fresh or canned. Using ripe, in-season tomatoes will enhance the flavor dramatically, lending sweetness and acidity that balances the earthiness of the white beans. If you opt for canned tomatoes, go for those labeled 'whole' or 'fire-roasted' to capture robust flavors. Additionally, using low-sodium vegetable broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, so you can customize it to your taste preferences.

White beans are not just a source of protein; they also give the soup a creamy texture that makes it hearty. Cannellini beans are an excellent choice here, but you can substitute them with Great Northern beans if needed. Just make sure you rinse and drain them well to remove excess sodium before adding them to the crockpot. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower or zucchini for added bulk without the beans.

Slow Cooker Technique

Cooking this soup in a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully over time. If you’re short on time, cooking it on high for 2-3 hours is perfect, but going low and slow for 4-6 hours will yield deeper flavors. Be sure to check periodically; if your soup seems too thick, adding an extra cup of broth halfway through cooking can help maintain a soupy consistency without overpowering the flavor.

When preparing this soup, keep in mind that adding fresh herbs like basil at the end ensures their vibrant color and flavor shine through. If you add basil too early, it can turn dark and lose its aromatic quality. As an alternative, other herbs such as parsley or thyme can be used in place of basil for a different twist, depending on your taste preference or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a nourishing soup.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup diced onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for serving)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious soup.

Prepare Ingredients

Dice the onions and tomatoes and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the white beans.

Combine in Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the diced tomatoes, beans, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the flavors meld and the beans are heated through.

Add Fresh Basil

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh basil and let it wilt.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, and if desired, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy soup warm with bread or on its own!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Meal Prep and Storage

This soup is ideal for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency as the beans will continue to absorb liquid over time. For even longer storage, this soup freezes well; divide into portions and store for up to three months.

If you plan to make a large batch, consider using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches to avoid overfilling. When freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers and leave some space for expansion. To defrost, transfer the soup from the freezer to the fridge overnight, or reheat directly from frozen in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious soup can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty whole grain bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. You can also top each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a vegan option, stick with avocado slices or nutritional yeast on top.

For a twist, consider adding cooked pasta or grains such as quinoa or farro when serving. These additions not only enhance the texture but also make the soup even more filling. Garnishing with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation, turning this comforting soup into an inviting dish perfect for serving guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook the dried beans before adding them to the crockpot.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I pair this soup with?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work well; just dice them up and use them in place of canned.