Healthy Crockpot Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Lentil Soup! It’s incredibly easy to throw together, and the flavors develop beautifully as it cooks throughout the day. Each spoonful is packed with nutritious lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a wholesome meal that warms both body and soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies from the fridge. I can’t wait to share this satisfying recipe that has become a staple in my household!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:29:34.734Z

When I first tried making lentil soup, I knew I wanted a recipe that had minimal fuss but maximum flavor. That’s when I discovered the magic of my crockpot. By adding all the ingredients in the morning and letting it stew throughout the day, I enjoyed a warm and comforting bowl of soup by dinner time. Using dried lentils rather than canned ones not only enhances the flavor but also allows me to control the texture perfectly.

One trick I’ve learned is to sauté the onions and garlic beforehand, even if it’s just for a few minutes. It brings out their natural sweetness and adds an incredible depth to the overall dish. I love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread, although sometimes I just eat it straight from the bowl. It’s that good!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutrient-rich ingredients that nourish your body
Effortless preparation with a hands-off cooking method
Delicious leftovers that keep well and taste even better the next day

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Healthy Crockpot Lentil Soup is unquestionably the lentils. Dried lentils are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making them incredibly satiating. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly to eliminate any unwanted debris or dust—this ensures a cleaner flavor and smoother texture. When cooking, green or brown lentils hold their shape well and provide a nice bite, while red lentils can offer a creamier consistency if that's your preference.

Each vegetable plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup. The onion and garlic create a solid aromatic foundation, while the carrots and celery add natural sweetness and crunch. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, ensuring the ratios remain balanced so that the soup maintains its intended texture and consistency.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot may seem like an extra step, but it’s essential for developing depth of flavor. Cooking them until they turn translucent—approximately 5 minutes on medium heat—releases essential oils and sugars that transform into a fragrant base for the soup. This technique cannot be skipped if you want that rich, savory taste!

When it comes to cooking time, choose low heat for a leisurely simmer or high heat for a quicker meal. The recommended cooking time—4 hours on low or 2 hours on high—allows the lentils to soften beautifully without falling apart. Keep an eye on the broth level; if you notice it getting too thick, you can add an extra cup of broth or water and stir well.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a warm bowl of goodness:

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

All these veggies and spices together make for a tasty and nutritious soup.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your soup:

Prepare Ingredients

Rinse and sort the lentils to remove any debris. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In a pan, heat a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened.

Combine in Crockpot

In a crockpot, add the rinsed lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until lentils are tender.

Add Greens

Stir in the fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking until just wilted.

Serve

Ladle into bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread or crackers!

Enjoy your hearty lentil soup!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this soup with any vegetables you have on hand. You can also add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for an extra zing!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This lentil soup keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To store, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheating it is a breeze; simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

If you're looking to meal prep, this soup is perfect for freezing! You can portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The lentils and vegetables will retain their flavor, and you can easily enjoy a healthy meal even on the busiest of days.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This soup is delightful on its own, but serves especially well with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a wholesome meal. For added protein, consider topping each bowl with shredded chicken or crumbled feta cheese. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the dish further, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor.

Don't hesitate to customize your soup! If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. You could also stir in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar before serving for a touch of acidity. Incorporating a variety of beans along with lentils can increase fiber and protein content, adjusting cooking times slightly to match.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried ones?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them in during the last 30 minutes.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

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

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water or chicken broth if you prefer. Just note that water may lead to a milder flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.