Name: Crock-Pot Easy Veggie Gumbo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488854H2M47S
Total time: PT-488854H2M47S
Cuisine: Louisiana Creole
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), chopped; 3 stalks celery, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups okra, sliced (fresh or frozen); 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juices; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Hot sauce to taste (optional); Cooked white or brown rice (for serving); Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gumbo delivers the signature spicy-soulful essence of traditional gumbo, but it’s meatless and hands-off. Using a Crock-Pot means all the flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a deeply flavorful dish with minimal effort. It’s naturally vegan, loaded with fiber and nutrients, and incredibly versatile—great with rice, cornbread, or on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), chopped
Celery, chopped
Garlic, minced
Okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
Diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
Tomato paste
Vegetable broth
Cajun seasoning
Smoked paprika
Dried thyme
Bay leaves
Salt
Black pepper
Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
Cooked white or brown rice (for serving)
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and celery until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Transfer sautéed vegetables to the Crock-Pot.
Add the sliced okra, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and all seasonings (Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper). Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are very tender and flavors have developed.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add hot sauce if desired.
Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with parsley or green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people and takes about 6–8 hours on Low or 3–4 hours on High, with 10–15 minutes of prep time.

Variations

Add Protein: Stir in canned chickpeas, red beans, or sliced vegan sausage for extra heartiness.
Thicker Texture: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir in during the last 30 minutes.
Add Greens: Toss in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Spicier Version: Add cayenne pepper or double the hot sauce for more heat.
Creole Twist: Use Creole seasoning instead of Cajun for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This gumbo also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is okra and why is it used in gumbo?

Okra is a green vegetable that helps naturally thicken gumbo and gives it a traditional texture. It also adds a mild, earthy flavor.

Can I skip the okra?

Yes, but the gumbo will be thinner. You can substitute with zucchini or thicken with a cornstarch slurry if desired.

Is this gumbo vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, as written it’s both vegan and gluten-free. Always double-check packaged ingredients like broth and seasoning blends to confirm.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely. Frozen okra, bell peppers, or even a mirepoix mix work well and save prep time.

Do I need to sauté the vegetables first?

Sautéing enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add everything directly to the Crock-Pot.

What can I serve with veggie gumbo?

Serve it over rice or alongside cornbread, crusty bread, or a light green salad.

How do I make this gumbo thicker?

Use a cornstarch slurry, mash some of the vegetables, or simmer uncovered near the end to reduce the liquid.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, just simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Is gumbo supposed to be spicy?

Traditionally, it has a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference using Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just make sure your Crock-Pot has enough capacity (6–8 quarts is ideal for doubling).

Conclusion

Crock-Pot Easy Veggie Gumbo is a warm, flavorful, and satisfying dish that delivers big taste with minimal effort. It’s a perfect meatless option that doesn’t compromise on authenticity or comfort. Whether you serve it over rice or enjoy it as a stew, this gumbo is a cozy, nourishing meal that belongs in your regular dinner rotation.