Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen

When I set out to create a comforting yet healthy soup, I knew a crockpot would be my best friend. This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup is my go-to recipe for satisfying both my cravings and my commitment to nutritious meals. Methodically layering fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and hearty white beans, I find that letting the crockpot do the magic brings out robust flavors while keeping prep time to a minimum. This soup has become a family favorite, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up any day of the week.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:37:35.258Z

As a busy cook, I adore recipes that balance convenience and flavor, which is why this soup has earned a place in my regular rotation. After numerous tests, I found that using canned tomatoes and fresh basil delivers an unbeatable freshness in flavor, while the white beans add a satisfying creaminess. This perfect harmony results in a comforting soup that I feel good about serving to my family.

I also love how easy it is to customize this recipe! For added nutrition, I sometimes throw in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. Experimenting with different herbs also brings new life to this dish each time I make it. You’ll likely find it has something new to offer for every occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying without weighing you down
Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients for a wholesome meal
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients are key to making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup truly shine. The ripe tomatoes provide a natural sweetness and acidity that balances perfectly with the creamy texture of the white beans. I recommend using high-quality canned tomatoes for consistency, but if tomatoes are in season, feel free to substitute with ripe, fresh tomatoes diced into chunks. Their vibrant flavors will elevate the soup and offer an incredible freshness that is hard to resist.

Basil is not just a garnish; it is the star of this recipe. Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the simplicity of the other ingredients. When using fresh herbs, I love to tear them rather than chop them to release more essential oils, which maximizes flavor. If basil is unavailable, you can substitute with Italian seasoning or dried basil, using about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Texture can be a defining characteristic of soup, and achieving the right consistency is simple. When cooking in a crockpot, the long, slow cooking process allows the beans and vegetables to become tender without turning to mush. For the perfect balance, keep an eye on the cooking time—cooking for about 6 hours on low usually lets everything meld beautifully, but if using a high setting, aim for about 3-4 hours, checking periodically.

Blending the soup is where you can put your personal touch on the texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, using an immersion blender for a quick pulse can transform part of the soup while preserving some chunky beans and vegetables. This technique not only enhances the mouthfeel but also makes it feel heartier without adding cream or fat.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the most appealing aspects of this soup is its make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare the soup a day in advance and let the flavors develop in the refrigerator overnight. Just store it in an airtight container after it has cooled completely. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. It may even taste better on the second day as the flavors meld together.

For longer storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion, and use within three months for best quality. When reheating from frozen, place the soup in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then gently warm on low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much. This easy process ensures you always have a delicious, healthy meal on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Soup Ingredients

2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect soup:

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the diced tomatoes, white beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Blend (Optional)

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup, while keeping some chunks intact.

Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy your warm soup with great bread!

Pro Tips

Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup shines as a standalone dish but can also be paired wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a more filling meal. Consider serving it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of yogurt on top for added richness. For a bit of crunch, homemade croutons or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors even further.

For those looking to add more protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey can be stirred in just before serving. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the soup while keeping it simple and hearty. Alternatively, if you're seeking a meatless meal, topping with avocado or a handful of chickpeas can provide additional texture and nutrition.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on dietary preferences or pantry staples. You can switch out the white beans for any other type, like cannellini or even lentils, if you're looking for a variation. Just be mindful of the cooking times—different beans may require adjusting to ensure they don’t become overly soft during the long cook in the crockpot.

If you crave a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when combining the ingredients. This simple addition enhances the soup's flavor profile without overwhelming it. For an extra layer of umami, a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can be stirred in as well, making this soup a versatile base for personal expression.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to peel and chop them first. About 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes should work.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.