Looking for a warm and comforting bowl of goodness to fill your belly? You’ve come to the right place! Soups are one of the ultimate comfort foods, perfect for a chilly day or when you need a pick-me-up. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 deliciously comforting soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, to more adventurous options like Spicy Thai Coconut Soup and Roasted Red Pepper Soup, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty beef-based broth or a light and creamy vegetable soup, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and get cozy – it’s time to dive into our collection of scrumptious soup recipes!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy night in. Fresh tomatoes and basil create a deliciously rich and savory broth, topped with a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a rich and flavorful broth with tender chicken and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, combine chicken, broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Soup
This Spicy Thai Coconut Soup recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of Thai spices and herbs, resulting in a deliciously spicy and comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon Thai red chili flakes
– 14 oz can coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and chili flakes; cook 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, comforting soup that’s packed with the flavors of baked potatoes and topped with all the fixin’s. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, diced scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté butter, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. Add potatoes, heavy cream, milk, chives, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyere Croutons
Savor the rich flavors of France’s iconic soup, elevated by crispy Gruyère croutons and a velvety broth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 4 slices of baguette
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add salt, wine (if using), and broth to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Top each slice with grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Broil until cheese is golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Place a crouton on top of each bowl and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender lentils, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, creamy barley, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a comforting and nutritious soup perfect for chilly fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, broth, roasted squash, and sage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Minestrone Soup with Pesto
A classic Italian soup gets a boost of flavor from the addition of homemade pesto, creating a creamy and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup homemade pesto (see recipe or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, macaroni, and vegetable broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and pesto until melted and well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clam Chowder with Bacon
This classic New England-inspired soup combines tender clams, smoky bacon, and a rich cream base for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add clam juice, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream; let simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Add clams and cooked bacon; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, packed with tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a rich broth infused with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until they’re tender but still retain some crunch.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe
Summary: This creamy soup is a perfect blend of smoky sweetness and savory flavors, showcasing the richness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Remove peppers from oven, let cool, then peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into pieces.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add roasted pepper, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
Warm up with a comforting bowl of split pea soup infused with the savory flavor of ham.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound cooked ham, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add split peas, ham, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to pot.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines the savory flavors of chicken, wild rice, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked wild rice (see cooking instructions below)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and potatoes)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the nutrients of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add broccoli, chicken broth, and milk. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pumpkin Curry Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, combining the sweetness of pumpkin with the warmth of Indian spices. Serve it as a comforting starter or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin, broth, and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Beef Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup, packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Zucchini and Corn Chowder
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful bowl of goodness with this simple recipe that highlights the sweetness of summer’s bounty. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this chowder is a delightful way to use up fresh zucchinis and corn.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced zucchinis and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the milk or cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed
A classic Japanese soup recipe that combines the savory flavor of miso paste with the tender texture of tofu and the nutty taste of seaweed. This comforting bowl is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 sheet of wakame seaweed, rehydrated and chopped
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cubed tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in chopped seaweed and cook for an additional minute.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of white beans, kale, and aromatic spices for a cozy and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 hearty soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and Chicken Noodle Soup, to international twists like Spicy Thai Coconut Soup and Mexican Tortilla Soup, there’s something for everyone. Try Loaded Baked Potato Soup or French Onion Soup with Gruyere Croutons for a rich and satisfying treat. Or, opt for lighter options like Lentil and Vegetable Soup or Butternut Squash Soup with Sage. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
