As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe your soul. But it doesn’t have to break the bank! With these 20 hearty and deliciously cheap soup recipes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without sacrificing taste or budget.
From classic comfort foods like lentil and vegetable soup to international inspirations like Mexican tortilla soup and spicy peanut butter soup, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, these soups are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll dive into our top 20 picks for hearty cheap soup recipes that won’t break the bank. From humble ingredients like potatoes and carrots to international flavors like black beans and cumin, these soups are perfect for anyone looking to save money and still enjoy a delicious meal.
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with protein-rich lentils and a medley of colorful vegetables.
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
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring 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. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Potato and Leek Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures, featuring the sweetness of potatoes and the subtle onioniness of leeks. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Rice Soup
Tomato and Rice Soup Recipe
As a comforting and flavorful soup, Tomato and Rice Soup is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the creaminess of rice to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Minestrone with Pasta
This hearty Italian-inspired soup combines vegetables, pasta, and cannellini beans in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a comforting meal or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta, and cannellini beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious black bean soup recipe. Made with aromatic spices and tender black beans, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cabbage and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, cabbage, and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
5. Add milk or heavy cream if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if preferred.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the natural sweetness of chickpeas and spinach complemented by aromatic spices. Serve warm with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon 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, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and spinach leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Ginger Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and spicy ginger, making it a delightful addition to any meal or snack. The combination of creamy texture and bold flavors will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped carrots and grated ginger; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
This classic soup recipe combines the comfort of split peas with the smoky flavor of ham, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the split peas, chicken broth, water, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of vegetables, noodles, and savory flavors, making it a great meal for any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup of noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the noodles, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Barley and Mushroom Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Barley and Mushroom Soup, a hearty and flavorful recipe perfect for any time of the year. This soup is a staple of many cuisines, and with its earthy flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder why.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, barley, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Corn and Potato Chowder
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn and potatoes with a savory broth, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, and milk or half-and-half. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans and nutrient-rich kale, making it a satisfying meal option for any time of the year. With its simple preparation and flavorful outcome, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the kale, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Add the cannellini beans and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy broccoli and cheese soup, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken 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 onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in milk and cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese and/or chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Lentil Soup
As the weather cools down, this comforting soup is just what you need to nourish your body and soul. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of lentils for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the cubed pumpkin, lentils, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this classic Mexican soup, packed with tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes and broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Add tortilla strips; cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, topped with your choice of avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Egg Drop Soup
A classic Chinese soup, Egg Drop Soup is a comforting and savory delight that’s easy to make. This recipe serves 2-3 people and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the egg until well-mixed.
2. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour the beaten egg into the broth, stirring constantly with a spoon or whisk.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through and form thin, egg-drop-like strands.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic and Herb Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful soup that combines the pungency of garlic with the freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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 garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and herbs; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini and Tomato Soup
Enjoy a refreshing and light take on classic tomato soup with the added sweetness of zucchini. This recipe is perfect for warm weather, as it’s easy to make and packed with nutritious goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the chopped zucchinis and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Soup
This creamy and spicy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the richness of peanut butter balanced by the heat of chili flakes. It’s an unusual yet delicious twist on traditional soups.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 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. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the peanut butter and chili flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and budget-friendly meals? Look no further! This article features 20 hearty and affordable soup recipes that are sure to please. From classic lentil and vegetable soup to creamy broccoli and cheese soup, there’s something for everyone. Other standouts include black bean soup, potato and leek soup, and spicy peanut butter soup. With ingredients like canned beans, vegetables, and grains, these soups are easy on the wallet without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
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