When you want a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, this slow cooker soup checks all the boxes. Packed with smoky sausage, tender beans, and vibrant spices, it’s the perfect companion for a lazy weekend afternoon or a busy weekday dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) bag of 15-bean soup mix, rinsed and drained
- 1 pound smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Start by layering your rinsed beans in the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, add the sliced sausage, onion, carrots, and celery, creating a hearty base of flavors. Sprinkle in the garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then gently stir everything together.
Secure the lid and cook on low for about 7 to 8 hours, or on high for about 4 to 5 hours. Check the soup halfway through the cooking time and give it a quick stir to ensure all the beans are surrounded by the flavorful broth. The soup is ready when the beans are completely tender, and the broth has thickened slightly.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few scoops of the beans against the pot’s side, then stir them back into the soup. Wrapped in the savory embrace of the sausage and aromatic veggies, this comforting pot of goodness will fill your entire kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Serve your cozy Cajun-style soup topped with fresh parsley or green onions for a bit of brightness. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days (and taste even better as the flavors meld!)
What makes this recipe truly shine is how easy it is to prepare and customize. Use turkey sausage for a lighter option, or swap out the sausage entirely for a vegetarian version—shiitake mushrooms and a dash of liquid smoke can add that same rich depth.
Since beans are high in fiber, this dish can be a nutritious option for those looking to eat heart-healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, a crowd of hungry friends, or just yourself, this soup will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds year-round
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
