For over two decades, I’ve embraced a vegetarian lifestyle, a journey that often means preparing two distinct meals each night: one with meat for my husband, John, and a vibrant veggie dish for myself. This routine, while manageable, constantly has me on the lookout for innovative and protein-rich vegetarian options that can satisfy everyone at the dinner table. So, when the opportunity arose to experiment with Beyond Meat’s protein-based vegetarian meat and surprise my family, I eagerly accepted the challenge. Finding a versatile plant-based protein that seamlessly integrates into beloved family recipes, while ensuring I meet my daily protein needs, is always a priority.
Hearty & Healthy: The Ultimate Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup with Beyond Meat
In a world increasingly conscious of health, sustainability, and ethical food choices, plant-based alternatives have revolutionized the way we think about dinner. Beyond Meat stands at the forefront of this movement, masterfully crafting delicious products from the power of plants. Their impressive range includes everything from juicy chicken strips and tenders to savory meatballs and versatile beef crumbles, all designed to mimic the taste and texture of their animal-based counterparts.
This commitment to innovation inspired me to create this Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup Recipe using Beyond Meat. It was a true delight to finally prepare a slow cooker meal that I could genuinely savor alongside my family. Far too often, I’ve whipped up crockpot soups that John would rave about, leaving me wishing for a vegetarian version. Beyond Meat has opened up a world of possibilities, making it easier than ever to adapt classic comfort food recipes into plant-based delights that everyone can enjoy. I’m already envisioning countless future meals where plant-based protein takes center stage!
One of the most enjoyable aspects of this culinary experiment was keeping John entirely in the dark about his vegetarian dinner. He had absolutely no clue that the hearty, flavorful meatballs he was enjoying were made from plants. The moment of revelation was priceless! As I served him a steaming bowl of soup and sat down with my own, I took a bite of a meatball. John’s face was a picture of pure shock when I told him they were entirely plant-based. It was truly fantastic to share a meal that tasted incredible and met my dietary preferences without any compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Beyond Meat: Pioneering The Future of Protein
Beyond Meat isn’t just creating food; they’re actively “planting The Future of Protein.” Their mission centers on utilizing protein derived from plants to develop a diverse array of products that don’t just mimic meat, but offer a compelling alternative. This means families can continue to indulge in their favorite dishes – from beef nachos and hearty chili to rich pasta Bolognese, sizzling chicken fajitas, and classic meatball subs – all without the health concerns and environmental impact often associated with animal protein.
The shift towards plant protein consumption is gaining significant momentum, reaching a critical tipping point. Elite athletes, known for their meticulous attention to nutrition and performance, are among the early adopters of plant-based diets. They intuitively grasp the profound benefits of plant-based proteins, recognizing their role in improved recovery, sustained energy, and overall well-being. This understanding has led many to partner with Beyond Meat, underscoring the brand’s credibility and efficacy in supporting high-performance lifestyles.
So, what does this “Future of Protein” truly entail? Imagine a grocery store meat case evolving into a comprehensive “protein case,” where plant-based options stand proudly alongside traditional meats, offering consumers unprecedented choice. Envision plant protein becoming a staple on menus in the largest restaurant chains and integrated into school lunch programs nationwide. This future isn’t a distant dream; it’s a rapidly approaching reality, driven by consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable, and delicious food options. Beyond Meat is at the forefront, making this vision a tangible part of our everyday lives, demonstrating that plant-based eating is not a sacrifice, but an upgrade.
Why Choose Slow Cooking for Your Vegetarian Soup?
The slow cooker, or crock pot, is a culinary marvel, especially for busy individuals and families. Its “set it and forget it” approach makes it an indispensable tool for preparing wholesome meals with minimal effort. For this Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup, the slow cooker works wonders by gently simmering the ingredients over several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully. This low-and-slow cooking method is perfect for developing a rich, comforting broth and ensuring that the vegetables become tender without losing their texture.
Beyond convenience, slow cooking offers several advantages for vegetarian dishes. It helps break down the cellular walls of fibrous vegetables, making their nutrients more bioavailable and the dish easier to digest. The consistent, gentle heat prevents scorching and ensures even cooking, which is particularly beneficial for ingredients like plant-based meatballs that absorb flavors beautifully over time. Plus, the inviting aroma that fills your home as the soup simmers is an added bonus, building anticipation for a truly satisfying meal.
Using a slow cooker also simplifies portion control and meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch of this vegetarian meatball soup to enjoy throughout the week, saving time and ensuring healthy meals are always within reach. For best results, we recommend using a crock pot with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once cooking is complete. This feature ensures your soup cooks perfectly without overdoing it, giving you peace of mind and a perfectly prepared dinner.
Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup Recipe!
A delightful and simple way to prepare a savory Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 455 kcal per serving
Author: Tammilee Tips
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Ingredients
- 43.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (3 – 14.5oz cans)
- 8 oz Tomato Sauce
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth
- 1 ½ cups Carrots (sliced)
- ½ cup Onion (chopped)
- 2 cups Green Beans (frozen)
- 1 Teaspoon Basil
- 1 Teaspoon Oregano
- 1 Teaspoon Thyme
- 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15 oz) can Garbanzo Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 packages Beyond Meat Meatballs
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
- 10 ¾ oz Tomato Soup
Instructions
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, carrots, onion, green beans, basil, oregano, and thyme to the crock pot and stir to combine thoroughly. Gently fold in the kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and Beyond Meat meatballs. Ensure all ingredients are well distributed.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to become perfectly tender.
- Approximately 15-20 minutes before you are ready to serve, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and add the cooked macaroni directly into the soup in the crock pot. Stir in the can of tomato soup until fully incorporated.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (use a plant-based Parmesan for a fully vegan option).
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker (preferably one with an automatic warm setting)
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup Recipe!
Amount Per Serving
Calories 455 Calories from Fat 54
% Daily Value*
Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 1g 6%
Sodium 1096mg 48%
Potassium 1339mg 38%
Carbohydrates 76g 25%
Fiber 16g 67%
Sugar 16g 18%
Protein 27g 54%
Vitamin A 4942IU 99%
Vitamin C 29mg 35%
Calcium 160mg 16%
Iron 7mg 39%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Essential Tools for Your Slow Cooker Adventures
To truly elevate your slow cooking experience and ensure consistently delicious results, having the right tools is key. A high-quality slow cooker is, of course, paramount. We highly recommend opting for a model that includes a digital timer and an automatic “warm” setting. This feature is a game-changer for busy schedules, as it allows your meal to cook to perfection and then automatically shifts to a warming mode, preventing overcooking and keeping your dinner ready until you are. You can explore a variety of excellent options for your Crockpot needs.
And let’s not forget the vessel for enjoying your culinary creation! A sturdy and comfortable Soup Bowl can significantly enhance the dining experience, making each spoonful feel even more comforting.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Vegetarian Meatball Soup
This hearty Crock Pot Vegetarian Meatball Soup is a meal in itself, but a few complementary side dishes can truly complete the dining experience. A crusty loaf of artisanal bread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the rich, flavorful broth. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth and depth of the soup. Don’t forget to check out all these great side dishes for vegetable soup to find your perfect pairing!
More Delicious Crockpot Vegetarian Recipes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed the ease and flavors of this vegetarian meatball soup, you’ll be thrilled to discover more easy vegetarian crockpot recipes. The slow cooker is a fantastic ally for plant-based cooking, offering convenience without sacrificing taste.
- Slow Cooker Vegetarian Soup: A foundational recipe for wholesome goodness.
- Three Bean Vegetarian Chili: A protein-packed, flavorful chili perfect for any occasion.
- Vegetarian Chili: Another robust chili option, rich in vegetables.
- Garlic Mushrooms: An incredibly simple yet delicious side or appetizer.
- Creamed Corn: A classic comfort food, made easy in your slow cooker.
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Recipe originally shared on October 12, 2015. Updated and expanded in October 2020 and for this current revision.