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When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of stew to nourish both the body and the soul. The Hearty Crockpot White Bean & Spinach Stew stands out as a delightful option that combines rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and the convenience of a slow cooker. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Crockpot White Bean & Spinach Stew

Warm up with the Hearty Crockpot White Bean & Spinach Stew, a nourishing dish perfect for chilly days. This easy-to-make recipe combines creamy white beans and vibrant spinach, packed with protein and essential vitamins. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld beautifully. Ideal for busy nights or cozy weekends, enjoy this healthy comfort food that the whole family will love, providing both satisfaction and nutrition.

Ingredients
  

2 cups dried white beans (cannellini or great northern), soaked overnight

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 large carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 bell pepper (your choice of color), diced

6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)

1 bay leaf

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, including juices

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Beans: After soaking the white beans overnight, drain them well and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.

      Add to Crockpot: Transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture into the crockpot. Then, add in the soaked white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes along with their juices.

        Season: Gently stir all ingredients together. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.

          Cook the Stew: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

            Stir in Spinach: About 20 minutes before you are ready to serve, stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt into the stew. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

              Serve: Ladle the hearty stew into individual bowls. Finish each bowl with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added brightness.

                Enjoy: This stew is delightful served hot alongside crusty bread or over a bed of cooked quinoa for a wholesome and complete meal.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 8 hours | Servings: 6-8