As the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to brighten up your weeknight dinner routine. And what’s even better? Soups that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering soup recipes that fit the bill. From classic comfort foods like creamy tomato basil and chicken noodle, to international-inspired soups like spicy Thai coconut and Greek avgolemono, there’s something for everyone.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A classic Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter for a special occasion. This creamy and flavorful soup is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Enjoy your creamy and delicious Tomato Basil Soup!
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of many cuisines around the world. With its tender chicken, soft noodles, and savory broth, it’s a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a cold that just won’t quit.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Minestrone Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this vegetable-packed soup, perfect for any time of the year. This classic Italian recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful broccoli cheddar soup. This recipe is a perfect blend of healthy greens and rich cheese, sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk (or heavy cream)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture.
5. Return the pot to medium heat, add milk and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and heated through.
6. Season with flour, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Soup
Warm up with this hearty and nutritious soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a twist on traditional Tom Yum Goong, with the added richness of coconut milk. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chilies, garlic, and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and spices; adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Potato Leek Soup
This creamy potato leek soup is a perfect comfort food for any time of the year. With its subtle sweetness from the potatoes and the pungency of the leeks, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped leeks and cook until they are tender and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness to the soup.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch. This beef and barley soup is a flavorful and nutritious option that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the water, barley, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Carrot Ginger Soup, perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious pick-me-up any time of the year. This vibrant soup is packed with the natural sweetness of carrots and the invigorating zing of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil over medium heat until they begin to soften.
2. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese in this classic French-inspired soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add salt and white wine (if using); stir to combine.
3. Pour in beef broth; bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Arrange toasted baguette slices on top of soup. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
7. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 3-5 minutes).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Warm up with a bowl of this hearty and flavorful Mexican Tortilla Soup, perfect for a cozy evening or as a comforting meal on-the-go. This recipe combines the richness of chicken broth, the crunch of tortilla chips, and the zip of spices to create a deliciously satisfying soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips, crushed
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in crushed tortilla chips; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
A classic comfort food soup that’s easy to make and perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the creaminess of split peas with the savory flavor of ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, chicken broth, and diced ham.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried thyme to the pot.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Corn Chowder
This refreshing chowder combines the flavors of ripe zucchinis, sweet corn, and savory potatoes for a delightful summer meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced zucchinis, corn kernels, and potato. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender white beans, nutritious kale, and aromatic spices. A comforting and nourishing meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in white beans, kale, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until kale is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, packed with sautéed mushrooms, nutty wild rice, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Stir in wild rice and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and add thyme; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until rice is tender, about 40-45 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet potatoes and peanuts, offering a unique flavor combination that’s both comforting and exotic. With its velvety texture and nutty undertones, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, peanut butter, broth, and cumin to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Blend soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with roasted pumpkin and savory sage. Serve it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
3. Add the roasted pumpkin, broth, sage, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Inspired Wonton Soup
In this recipe, we’ll combine the comforting warmth of wontons with the bright flavors of Asian-inspired broth. This soup is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 2 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. While the broth is heating up, prepare the wontons by placing a small spoonful of your favorite filling (e.g., ground pork or vegetables) in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle or a square shape, and press the edges together to seal the wonton.
3. Once the broth is simmering, gently add the wontons to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Soup
Avgolemono soup is a traditional Greek recipe that combines the warmth of chicken broth with the brightness of lemon and egg. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together chicken broth, beaten eggs, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of cold water to dissolve. Add the cornstarch mixture to the soup and stir well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup
Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to distribute evenly.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for a quick and easy soup to satisfy your weeknight cravings? Look no further! This article features 20 delicious and simple soup recipes that are perfect for a busy evening. From classic chicken noodle soup to creamy tomato basil soup, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients like carrots, broccoli, lentils, and more, these soups are packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or comforting, these easy soup recipes are sure to hit the spot.
