Slow Cooker Creamy Wild Rice Soup is the kind of cozy, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Packed with earthy wild rice, tender vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich, velvety broth, this soup celebrates everything we love about slow-cooked meals—deep flavor, wholesome ingredients, and minimal effort.

It’s perfect for fall and winter evenings when you want something hearty yet nourishing. The slow cooker infuses every spoonful with warmth and homestyle comfort, and the creamy texture elevates it to irresistible comfort-food status. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this recipe guarantees a flavorful pot of goodness with almost no work required.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of hearty and nutritious. The wild rice adds texture and nutty depth, while the slow-cooked vegetables make the broth naturally flavorful. The cream adds just the right richness without being overly heavy.

It’s the kind of soup that feels nourishing and comforting at the same time. Plus, it’s a true hands-off meal—simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it create magic throughout the day.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

• Unbelievably easy—everything cooks in one pot.
• Deep flavor development from hours of slow simmering.
• Wholesome ingredients packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein.
• A perfect cold-weather meal that warms and satisfies.
• Customizable with proteins, dairy-free options, and veg-loaded variations.

⏱Prep, Cook Time, Servings & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Total Time: 6–8 hours
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~320 calories per serving (may vary by cream or milk used)
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

Soup Base

• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 large potato, diced (optional for extra creaminess)
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Creamy Finish

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ¼ cup flour or cornstarch (to thicken)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken

Cooking Directions (Simple Version)

1. Add wild rice, vegetables, herbs, spices, and broth to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on HIGH 4–5 hours or LOW 7–8 hours until rice is tender.
3. Melt butter, whisk in flour, and add cream to create a roux.
4. Add creamy mixture into the slow cooker and stir well.
5. Cook 10–15 minutes until thickened.
6. Remove bay leaves and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Rinse the wild rice under cold water.
• Chop all vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
• Mince the garlic and dice the potato (if using).

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Add the following:

• Wild rice
• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Mushrooms
• Potato (optional)
• Garlic
• Thyme, rosemary, parsley
• Bay leaves
• Salt & pepper
• Broth

Stir lightly to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Base

• Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until rice is fully cooked and veggies are tender.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Roux

In a small saucepan:

• Melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour or cornstarch.
• Slowly pour in cream or half-and-half while continuing to whisk.
• Cook until thick and smooth.

Step 5: Combine

• Add the roux to the slow cooker.
• Stir deeply until soup becomes creamy and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Remove bay leaves and serve.

How to Serve

Serve the soup hot in deep bowls with:

• Crusty bread or baguette
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley
• Extra cream drizzled on top
• A side salad
• Optional: Parmesan cheese

This soup is filling enough to be a full meal, especially during colder months.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip rinsing the rice — it prevents excess starchiness.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
• Add chicken for a heartier, protein-rich version.
• Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
• Stir occasionally if you’re home; wild rice can stick to edges.

Variations (In Detail)

1. Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Add 1 cup shredded chicken during the final 30 minutes.

2. Dairy-Free Version

Use:

• Coconut milk
• Cashew cream
• Oat cream

Skip the roux and add a slurry of cornstarch + broth.

3. Mushroom Lover’s Version

Add 2–3 cups of mushrooms for a deeper savory profile.

4. Veggie-Packed Version

Include spinach, kale, bell peppers, or peas in the last 20 minutes.

5. Sausage Wild Rice Soup

Add cooked Italian sausage for a smoky, rich twist.

6. Extra Creamy Version

Use half heavy cream + half cream cheese for indulgent richness.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in airtight containers.
• Lasts 3–4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.

Freezer

Creamy soups can separate when frozen, so freeze before adding the cream:

• Freeze the base (without cream) for up to 3 months.
• Add cream after reheating for the best texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker / Crockpot
• Saucepan (for roux)
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Whisk for thickening mixture

FAQ

1. Can I use a wild rice blend?

Yes, but blends cook faster—check earlier for doneness.

2. Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes. Simmer for 45–60 minutes until rice is tender, then add cream.

3. How do I make it thicker?

Add more roux or a slurry (cornstarch + broth).

4. Can I make this vegan?

Yes—use vegetable broth and coconut cream or cashew cream.

5. Why is my soup too thick?

Wild rice absorbs liquid over time—just add extra broth.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Wild Rice Soup is everything a cozy meal should be—warm, hearty, flavorful, and beautifully creamy. With minimal prep, wholesome ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, cold evenings, or meal prep, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. One bowl is enough to remind you how satisfying a slow-cooked homemade meal can be.