When it comes to cooking, few things are as comforting and convenient as a hearty bowl of homemade soup. But what if you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? That’s where meal prep magic comes in – just fill a jar with your favorite soup ingredients, refrigerate or freeze until ready, and enjoy a satisfying and healthy meal whenever you need it.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and easy-to-make soup recipes that can be prepared in advance and served straight from the jar. From classic comfort foods to international flavors and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, these soups are sure to hit the spot. So grab your jar, get ready to meal prep, and let’s dive into the world of soup in a jar!
Classic Tomato Basil Soup in a Jar
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy goodness, all packaged in a convenient jar for easy reheating. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large pot, combine blended mixture and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Ladle soup into jars and refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup in a Jar
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe yields a deliciously smooth and flavorful squash soup that can be stored in jars for up to 5 days.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh and puree in a blender or food processor with butter, onion, garlic, broth, heavy cream, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill clean glass jars with the soup, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (roasting time)
Spicy Lentil and Vegetable Soup in a Jar
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of spices, lentils, and vegetables, packed into a convenient jar for a quick and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeño peppers or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, water or broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add jalapeño peppers or hot sauce if desired.
4. Portion soup into clean glass jars or containers, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
5. Refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup in a Jar
A comforting and convenient meal that’s ready when you are! This recipe makes two jars of delicious chicken noodle soup that can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small 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, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Divide the soup mixture between two clean glass jars or containers. Add cooked noodles to each jar.
5. Refrigerate until chilled, then store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup in a Jar
This comforting soup recipe combines tender beef, creamy barley, and rich vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and transport. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef, broth, barley, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and thyme; season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until barley is cooked.
5. Ladle into clean glass jars, leaving 1 inch headspace.
6. Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Minestrone Soup in a Jar
Transform your lunchtime with this hearty, Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This jarred recipe makes it easy to prepare and transport your Minestrone Soup on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Layer the ingredients in a clean 1-quart mason jar in the following order:
– Pasta shapes
– Diced tomatoes
– Kidney beans
– Chopped parsley
– Olive oil, garlic, and dried basil
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Close the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. When ready to eat, shake the jar well and enjoy.
Cooking Time: No cooking required! Simply refrigerate and serve when you’re ready.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Jar
Start your day with a comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup that’s easy to make and takes just minutes to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large jar, combine broccoli, chicken broth, milk, butter, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the mixture is hot and steaming.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined (if using heavy cream, add it at this stage).
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup in a Jar
This comforting soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, water, ham, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Ladle soup into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
5. Seal jars tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup in a Jar
This recipe makes a delicious and comforting Thai-inspired soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy coconut milk, fragrant curry powder, and tender chicken, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, broth, water, curry powder, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in diced chicken.
5. Pour soup into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
French Onion Soup in a Jar
This classic French onion soup gets a modern twist with this jarred recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch, this homemade soup is easy to make and can be enjoyed on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 slice of baguette, toasted
– Grated Gruyère cheese (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Layer the caramelized onions, beef broth, white wine (if using), and butter in a clean glass jar.
2. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Top with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
4. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve immediately.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion in a pan over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark golden brown.
Black Bean and Corn Soup in a Jar
Enjoy a comforting and nutritious soup that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Pack the mixture into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
4. Pour olive oil over the soup to prevent spoilage.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe, perfect for busy days when you need a quick and easy meal.
Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup in a Jar
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe makes one large jar, but can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the wild rice, water or broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour into a large jar and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Soup in a Jar
This recipe makes one large jar of creamy pumpkin soup infused with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening. Simply layer all the ingredients in a jar and let it do the work while you’re on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large jar, layer the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
2. Add the butter, chopped sage, salt, and nutmeg on top of the cream layer.
3. Close the lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. When ready to serve, shake the jar well and spoon into bowls.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, make-ahead delight.
Mexican Tortilla Soup in a Jar
This recipe is a twist on traditional tortilla soup, packed into a jar for easy transport and reheating. With tender chicken, flavorful spices, and soft tortillas, this Mexican-inspired soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Ladle soup into a jar and refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Beef Stew in a Jar
This comforting stew combines tender beef, colorful vegetables, and savory flavors in a convenient jarred meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean 1-quart mason jar.
5. Top with tomato paste and seal the jar.
6. Refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: None required! This stew is ready to eat as-is, or reheat in the microwave or oven when needed.
Creamy Potato Leek Soup in a Jar
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day or as a make-ahead meal solution. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped leeks and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea Soup in a Jar
Warm up with this flavorful and nutritious Moroccan-inspired soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Pack hot soup into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup in a Jar
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans and nutritious kale, all packed into a convenient jar for a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a busy day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cannellini beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans again.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the kale, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans to the pot along with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Carrot Ginger Soup in a Jar
This recipe makes a delicious and comforting carrot ginger soup that’s easy to prepare, store, and enjoy on-the-go. Simply layer the ingredients in a jar, refrigerate overnight, and blend in the morning for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the grated carrots and sliced ginger; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth and almond milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
5. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. In the morning, remove from fridge and blend with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 10 minutes; refrigeration time: overnight)
Southwest Chicken Quinoa Soup in a Jar
This hearty soup combines the flavors of the Southwest with quinoa and chicken for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
2. Stir in olive oil, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Layer ingredients into a 1-quart glass jar or container.
5. Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 8-10 hours using a slow cooker.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (high) or 8-10 hours (low)
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 hearty soup in a jar recipes perfect for busy days! From classic Tomato Basil Soup to spicy Lentil and Vegetable Soup, and from creamy Butternut Squash Soup to comforting Chicken Noodle Soup, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make soups are ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch on-the-go. Simply layer your ingredients in a jar, add some love, and let the magic happen! With a variety of flavors and ingredients, you’ll never get bored with these delicious and convenient soup recipes.