Name: Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion (diced small (white onion may be substituted)); 2 to 3 cloves garlic (finely minced); 15 ounces canned pumpkin purée ((unsweetened; NOT pumpkin pie filling which is very sweet)); 2 medium carrots (peeled, trimmed, and sliced into thin rounds); 1 small sweet potato (peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes); 3 cups vegetable broth (or more if needed (reduced sodium or regular)); 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste (will for sure need more if using reduced sodium broth)); 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste (does not make it spicy; rather adds flavor)); 1 cup French baguette; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or vegan buttery spread if keeping vegan); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); ½ cup canned coconut milk (or as desired (lite or full fat, or half-and-half or heavy cream)); Fresh herbs, thyme, rosemary, parsley, etc.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup to comfort the soul. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the aroma of simmering spices filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. As the seasons change and the leaves turn golden, I find myself reaching for this recipe time and again. Each ingredient tells a story, from the rich pumpkin purée that brings that warm, earthy flavor to the sweet notes of carrots and sweet potatoes. It’s a dish that not only warms you up but also evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. I love how easy it is to prepare—just toss everything into the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and in a few hours, you have a delightful meal ready to enjoy. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about blending the soup to achieve that perfectly creamy texture. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

And let’s not forget the optional homemade croutons that add a delightful crunch to every spoonful! Just a touch of butter and Italian seasoning transforms day-old French baguette into crispy bites that elevate the whole dish. You can serve this soup any time, but it shines particularly bright during the fall and winter months, making it ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy family dinners.

So if you’re looking to warm your heart and fill your belly, make this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup. Gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and enjoy every comforting sip together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
large skillet, 6-quart slow cooker, 7-quart slow cooker, immersion blender, high speed blender

The Magic of This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

Perfect for All Occasions

I can’t emphasize enough how versatile Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, it fits right in. The soup’s vibrant color and comforting aroma make it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits

This soup is packed with nutrients from the fresh pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C, promoting better immunity and skin health. Plus, the fiber content helps keep you full and satisfied.

Easy Preparation

With minimal chopping and no need for constant monitoring, this recipe is perfect for anyone, including busy families or novice cooks. Just prep the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do the hard work while you relax or handle other tasks.

Customizable Flavor

One of the best parts of this soup is how easily it can be customized. Add cayenne pepper for a little heat, or switch up the spices to find your favorite combination. Each time you make it, you can create something uniquely yours.

Excellent Leftovers

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup excels at flavor retention, and leftovers taste even better the next day. They can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for quick meals in the future, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Finally, there’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that makes you feel at home. It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special occasion, this soup is sure to warm hearts and stomachs.

Ingredients to Make Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is crafted from a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients. The rich and creamy base is built around the delicious pumpkin purée, complemented by carrots and sweet potatoes that add both sweetness and texture. Each ingredient works together to create a cozy flavor profile that’s perfect for crisp autumn days.

1 tablespoon olive oil – A great way to start, it helps sauté the onions and garlic to release their rich flavors.
1 small yellow onion, diced small – Adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely minced – The aromatic companion to the onion, bringing a fragrant kick.
15 ounces canned pumpkin purée – The star of the show, offering creaminess and that classic pumpkin taste.
2 medium carrots, peeled, trimmed, and sliced into thin rounds – For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the soup.
3 cups vegetable broth – The base of the soup, bringing everything together with moisture and flavor.
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste – Enhances all the flavors within the soup.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste – Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – Infuses a warm, earthy note into the soup.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – A hint of sweetness and warmth, perfect for fall.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, or to taste – Complements the pumpkin and adds depth.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste – Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the palate.
1 cup French baguette, cut into 1/4” pieces – Perfect for croutons to add crispness to the soup.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, or vegan buttery spread if keeping vegan – For toasting the croutons and enhancing flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds an aromatic dimension to the soup.
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste – To season the croutons perfectly.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste – Helps elevate the flavor of the croutons.
½ cup canned coconut milk, or as desired – Adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor.
Fresh herbs, thyme, rosemary, parsley, etc. – For garnish and added freshness.

Putting Together Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

Making this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is a delightful journey. The steps are straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a creamy, comforting soup waiting for you. Let’s dive into the process!

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning. In the last minute of sautéing, toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute more. This step builds a rich base of flavor.
Next, it’s time to transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to your slow cooker. If you like, spray the ceramic base of the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Now, let’s add the remaining ingredients: the pumpkin purée, carrots, sweet potatoes, and vegetable broth. Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together, cover, and set your slow cooker to HIGH for about 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours. During cooking, give it a stir a couple of times to ensure even cooking.
The soup is done when the vegetables are very soft and easily pierced with a fork. This is key for achieving that velvety texture!
While the soup is cooking, prepare the optional croutons. In a separate large skillet, melt the butter over high heat. Once melted, add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Toss in the diced bread cubes and coat them in the seasoned butter. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, about 7 to 10 minutes. You want to toss and flip them frequently for even cooking.
If you prefer, you can also bake the croutons in a 375°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
When the cooking time is up, use a handheld immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
Before serving, it’s essential to taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning as needed; if it tastes flat, it might need more salt or a dash more of cayenne pepper or cumin to enhance the flavor.
If desired, you can add a splash of coconut milk or other dairy for added creaminess. Top with fresh herbs before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Keep the sweet potatoes diced small and uniform to ensure they cook at the same rate as other ingredients.
If you find the soup too thick, feel free to add more vegetable broth during cooking.
Blending the soup creates a velvety texture; you can adjust the blending time for a chunky or smooth finish based on your preference.
For added depth, consider incorporating ground ginger or other spices that complement pumpkin.

Helpful Notes about Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

If you’re excited to make this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup, here are some helpful notes to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s cooled before placing it in the refrigerator.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! You can freeze it in individual portions for easy meals later. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Pairing: Consider serving this soup with a fresh salad or a warm sandwich for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to customize the spices to your liking; some people enjoy adding a hint of curry powder for an exotic twist.
Garnishing Options: Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Enjoy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

Serving your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is just as delightful as making it. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this comforting dish:

For a cozy dinner: Serve the soup in warm bowls with crispy croutons on top, making it a hearty meal.
At gatherings: This soup is perfect for potlucks or holiday feasts. Serve it as a starter to impress your guests.
During fall celebrations: Pair it with roasted turkey or fall-themed dishes to complement the seasonal flavors.
For lunch: Pack the soup in a thermos and bring it to work for a nutritious and warming lunch option.
With sides: Consider adding a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
For meal prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and portion it out for easy meals throughout the week.

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pumpkin! Just peel, seed, and dice it before cooking. You’ll need to cook it longer to ensure it becomes soft enough to blend into the soup. Fresh pumpkin can add a lovely, vibrant flavor to your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup.

If you prefer a bit of heat, add extra cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce before serving. You could also include diced jalapeños during the cooking process for a different flavor profile. Adjust the spices according to your taste to enjoy the right balance of flavor and heat in your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup.

This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. The comforting flavors of the soup complement these sides perfectly for a cozy meal.

Yes, this soup can easily be made vegan! Simply use vegan buttery spread instead of butter and ensure that your vegetable broth is plant-based. You can also use coconut milk or cashew cream to keep it creamy and delicious. It’s a perfect hearty and satisfying meal for everyone!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of fall with its cozy flavors and creamy texture. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Once you experience the warmth it brings, it will surely become a favorite in your household!