As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of soup. But let’s be real – busy weeknights can make it hard to find the time to cook up a storm in the kitchen. That’s why we’ve gathered 20 delicious and easy-to-make soup recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for a quick and satisfying meal. From creamy and comforting classics like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, to hearty and flavorful options like Spicy Black Bean Soup, these soups are designed to be whipped up in no time – think 30 minutes or less! Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and get ready to cozy up with these easy soup recipes.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a creamy and comforting package.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 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 chopped tomatoes, broth, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Chicken Noodle Soup
Quick Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
When you’re short on time but still want a comforting and satisfying meal, this quick chicken noodle soup is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients and a brief cooking time, you’ll have a warm and nourishing bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add noodles and thyme to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Easy Lentil and Vegetable Soup Recipe
Warm up with a hearty and comforting bowl of lentil soup packed with nutritious vegetables and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend 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 chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Simple Minestrone Soup
This hearty Italian soup is a perfect comfort food on a chilly day, packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a warm and satisfying bowl of minestrone ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, chopped
– 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broccoli, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
5-Ingredient Potato Leek Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of potato, leek, and cream, made easy with just 5 ingredients. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the sliced leeks in a little bit of water until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of cumin, chili powder, and diced tomatoes with tender black beans and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, and jalapeño; cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tortilla Soup
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting twist on traditional soup, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With just one pot to clean, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Add tortilla strips and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to break apart.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup
A comforting and creamy soup that combines the rich flavors of garlic, parmesan, and white beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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. Stir in the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and parmesan cheese.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Easy Butternut Squash Soup
Cozy up with this simple and delicious soup recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutmeg, cumin, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with butter.
4. Roast squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop cooked squash into a blender or food processor, along with onion, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
6. Blend until smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
30-Minute Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian soup is a staple of wedding receptions and family gatherings. With its rich flavor and comforting warmth, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. This 30-minute recipe makes 6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese in this quintessential French soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (30-40 minutes).
2. Add beef broth and white wine (if using). Bring mixture to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Arrange toasted baguette slices in individual serving bowls. Ladle soup over bread.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of each bowl.
6. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (2-3 minutes).
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Simple Miso Soup with Tofu
A classic Japanese soup that’s comforting and nutritious, this simple miso soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. With the added protein of tofu, it makes for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 grated ginger and sliced green onion.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add tortellini and stir gently.
4. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious pot of corn chowder ready to warm your belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup is a perfect blend of warm spices, coconut richness, and tender vegetables. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Thailand in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in curry paste and cook 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Add mixed vegetables and season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quick Beef and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect solution for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need something satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef, beef broth, barley, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beef is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe. This zesty soup is packed with juicy chicken, tender orzo, and a hint of citrus from fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and lemon juice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Vegetable Dumpling Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of goodness! This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and green beans)
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and add the frozen mixed vegetables. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings by placing a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of your favorite filling (e.g., cooked rice, ground turkey) in the center of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle and press the edges together to seal.
6. Add the dumplings to the soup pot; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and spicy soup that combines the flavors of sausage, kale, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the kale and smoked paprika. Cook until the kale is tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get a delicious and stress-free dinner with these 20 easy soup recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic tomato basil to hearty lentil and vegetable, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at creamy broccoli cheddar or spicy black bean soups, or keep it simple with 5-ingredient potato leek. Whether you’re a meat-lover or vegetarian, these soup recipes are quick, easy, and guaranteed to please.