1. Creamy Pumpkin and Sage Soup
This delightful soup captures the essence of fall with its creamy texture and aromatic sage. Perfect for sipping while watching the big game, it combines the sweetness of pumpkin with savory herbs.
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in your crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend until smooth before serving and enjoy with crusty bread!
2. Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
This robust beef and barley soup is a classic choice for chilly fall afternoons. Rich in flavor and packed with nutrients, it’s a great meal to keep you energized during those long football games.
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 cup barley
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add all ingredients to the crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours. The barley will absorb the broth and create a wonderfully thick consistency!
3. Chicken Tortilla Soup
This zesty chicken tortilla soup is a fan favorite that brings a fiesta to your football Sundays. With its spicy kick and crunchy tortilla strips, it’s a fun way to warm up on a cool day.
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours. Shred the chicken before serving and top with tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese for added flair!
4. Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
This sweet and savory soup is the perfect representation of fall flavors. The combination of butternut squash and apples creates a unique taste that will impress your guests.
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend until smooth and serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
5. Classic Chili
No fall gathering is complete without a pot of classic chili. This hearty dish is perfect for football Sundays and can be customized to suit any taste preference.
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Brown the meat in a skillet, then add all ingredients to the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and serve with cornbread for a complete meal!
6. Potato Leek Soup
This creamy potato leek soup is a comforting staple that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s perfect for leaf peeping days when you want something warm and satisfying.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 leeks, cleaned and chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add all ingredients except cream to the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend until smooth and stir in the cream before serving for an extra touch of richness.
7. White Bean and Kale Soup
This nutritious white bean and kale soup is both hearty and healthy, making it an excellent choice for those who want a wholesome meal while enjoying the fall scenery.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in the kale during the last hour of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutrients.
8. Corn Chowder
This creamy corn chowder is a delightful way to celebrate the harvest season. The sweetness of the corn combined with the creaminess of the chowder makes it a favorite among friends and family.
- 4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add the corn, onion, potatoes, and broth to the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream before serving and enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
9. Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup
This spicy sausage and lentil soup is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with protein, making it ideal for football Sundays.
- 1 lb spicy sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Brown the sausage in a skillet, then add all ingredients to the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
10. Vegetable Minestrone Soup
This colorful vegetable minestrone soup is a great way to use up seasonal produce. It’s packed with vegetables and beans, making it a healthy and filling option for those crisp fall days.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor.
These 10 hearty fall crock pot soups are perfect for bringing warmth to your kitchen during the football season and while you enjoy leaf peeping. Each recipe is simple to prepare, allowing you more time to savor the beauty of autumn. Here’s a quick recap of how to incorporate these delicious soups into your fall festivities:
Tips for Enjoying Your Hearty Fall Soups
To elevate your experience while enjoying these soups, consider these helpful tips:
- Pair with Bread: Serve your soups with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a comforting meal that satisfies.
- Garnish Creatively: Add fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil on top of your soups to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch of soup and freeze leftovers for busy weekdays or unexpected guests.
- Variety is Key: Rotate different soups throughout the season to keep dinners exciting and to use various seasonal ingredients.
Hosting a Football Sunday?
If you’re planning a gathering for football Sundays, these soups are perfect as a main dish or side. Here are some ideas to make your event even more enjoyable:
- Soup Bar: Set up a soup bar where guests can serve themselves. Provide toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and croutons for added fun.
- Drink Pairings: Offer warm apple cider or craft beers that complement the flavors of your soups for a festive touch.
- Comfortable Seating: Create a cozy atmosphere with blankets and pillows for guests to lounge while they enjoy the game and your delicious soups.
Leaf Peeping Adventures
As you embark on your leaf peeping adventures, pack a thermos filled with your favorite soup from the list above. Here are some tips for enjoying your soup on the go:
- Use Insulated Containers: Invest in good quality insulated containers to keep your soup hot while you explore.
- Easy to Eat: Choose soups that are easy to eat with a spoon, or consider making them thicker, so they can be enjoyed without too much mess.
- Snack Pairings: Bring along some crackers, cheese, or a light salad to complement your soup for a complete meal.
Storing Leftover Soups
After a cozy dinner or a fun gathering, you may find yourself with leftover soups. Here’s how to store them:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow your soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store soups in airtight containers to keep them fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for Later: For longer storage, freeze soups in portions. Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
10 Hearty Fall Crock Pot Soups
Now, let’s dive into the delicious recipes that will warm your heart and fill your stomach on those crisp fall days. Here are ten hearty crock pot soups to enjoy during football Sundays and leaf peeping:
- Butternut Squash and Apple Soup: This creamy blend of roasted butternut squash and tart apples is perfect for a sweet and savory treat. Add a touch of cinnamon for an extra autumnal flavor.
- Beef and Barley Soup: Hearty chunks of beef simmered with barley, carrots, and celery make for a filling meal. It’s a classic choice that warms you from the inside out.
- Chicken Tortilla Soup: Spice things up with this zesty chicken tortilla soup, loaded with beans, corn, and topped with crispy tortilla strips for crunch.
- Split Pea and Ham Soup: A comforting blend of split peas and smoky ham hocks, this soup is rich in flavor and perfect for a chilly day.
- Vegetarian Chili: Packed with beans, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables, this chili is hearty enough to satisfy even the meat lovers in your group.
- Potato Leek Soup: Creamy and rich, potato leek soup is a comforting dish that celebrates the simple flavors of fall. Top it with crispy bacon for added texture.
- French Onion Soup: With its deep, savory broth and gooey cheese topping, this version of French onion soup is sure to impress your guests.
- Curried Pumpkin Soup: Infused with curry spices, this pumpkin soup combines the warmth of fall with an exotic twist that will delight your taste buds.
- Lentil and Sausage Soup: Hearty lentils and flavorful sausage come together in this robust soup, making it a filling option for any fall gathering.
- Tomato Basil Soup: A classic favorite, this tomato basil soup is creamy and rich, perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Conclusion
As the leaves change and football season kicks into full gear, these hearty crock pot soups offer the perfect solution for cozy gatherings and chilly weekends. Each recipe not only warms the body but also brings friends and family together around the table, making them ideal for any fall occasion.
Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or enjoying a peaceful day of leaf peeping, these soups will satisfy your cravings and elevate your autumn experience. Embrace the season with these delicious, easy-to-make dishes!