Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! With these 20 delicious and quick soup recipes, you can have a satisfying and nutritious meal on the table in no time. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup, to international inspirations like Thai Coconut Curry Soup and Mexican Street Corn Soup, there’s something for everyone in this roundup.
In the following pages, we’ll explore how these quick soups can be tailored to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a fast and flavorful lunch option or a family seeking a hearty and wholesome dinner solution, our collection of recipes is sure to hit the spot.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A classic Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy tomato basil soup is a flavorful and comforting blend of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for any time of year, this easy chicken noodle soup recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat.
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, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.
4. Add the noodles to the soup and stir to combine.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Lentil and Coconut Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and spicy soup that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the comforting goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, coconut milk, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Quick Minestrone Soup
Get ready to warm up with this classic Italian-inspired soup that’s packed with vegetables and beans. This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have on hand!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, pasta shapes, and mixed vegetables. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese, all in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or nonfat)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add broccoli florets, broth, and milk. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Thai Coconut Curry Soup Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup that combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
15-Minute Tortilla Soup
Ready in just 15 minutes, this tortilla soup recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a flavorful and filling meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips, crushed (for serving)
– Optional: shredded chicken or cheese for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper; cook an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot with crushed tortilla chips on top and optional protein additions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlicky White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, pungent garlic, and nutritious kale. A comforting and flavorful dish for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add kale and cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup made possible by the Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the butternut squash and cut it into large chunks.
2. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the butternut squash, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
8. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ginger Carrot Soup
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of lemon and spice of ginger. Perfect for a light and comforting meal or as a starter.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add the chopped carrots, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick and Hearty Beef Stew
In just under an hour, you can have a rich and flavorful beef stew on the table, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe is a classic comfort food with tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Soup
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this creamy and comforting soup, featuring the sweet and savory combination of grilled corn, onions, and cotija cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Grill corn ears again for an additional 2-3 minutes, then chop off kernels into the pot.
7. Stir in heavy cream and cotija cheese (if using); adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Simmer soup for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional cotija cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Miso Soup with Tofu
This classic Japanese soup is a staple of comfort food, warm and inviting on a chilly day. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and savory broth to accompany the tender cubes of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dashi broth 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 soy sauce and grated ginger.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
This vibrant soup is a flavorful blend of roasted red peppers and fresh tomatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its slightly smoky taste and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large red bell peppers
– 2 large ripe tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, then chop the flesh into pieces.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened. Add the roasted red pepper and tomato, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup is smooth and flavorful.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup, or let it cool and blend in a blender. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and stir well.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Speedy French Onion Soup
Looking for a comforting and flavorful soup that can be prepared quickly? This Speedy French Onion Soup recipe is the perfect solution, using only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese (or other melty cheese)
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re translucent and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes.
3. Preheat your broiler.
4. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices and grated cheese.
5. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Soup
Rich and creamy, this spinach and artichoke soup is a delicious twist on traditional soups. Perfect for a cozy night in or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and heavy cream until wilted and smooth.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting, easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the simplicity of one-pot cooking with the satisfying flavors of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, rice, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Curried Cauliflower Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of Indian spices and Western comfort food. A pinch of curry powder adds depth and warmth to the tender cauliflower, making it a delightful winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cauliflower and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Avocado and Lime Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of creamy avocado and tangy lime, making it a great option for a light and rejuvenating meal or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this deliciousness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, lime juice, onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. Add broth and blend until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat the soup gently over low heat if desired.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoky Black Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the richness of black beans with the depth of smoky flavors, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil 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. Stir in the black beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these quick and delicious soup recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy tomato basil to spicy lentil and coconut, and from classic chicken noodle to hearty beef stew, there’s something for everyone. Whip up a pot of garlicky white bean and kale or roasted red pepper and tomato in no time, or try one of the many other options like Thai coconut curry, Mexican street corn, or smoky black bean. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new favorites.