As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to hit the spot. But who has time to spend hours in the kitchen slaving away over a hot stove? Not you! That’s why we’ve rounded up our favorite easy soup recipes that can be whipped up in no time. From creamy tomato soups to hearty lentil stews, these 20 delicious and effortless recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of easy soups that will become your new go-to’s for a cozy night in. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like chicken noodle soup or something more adventurous like Thai coconut curry soup, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This rich and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy goodness. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and comforting bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in dried basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that can be ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, noodles, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Easy Minestrone Soup
A classic Italian-inspired soup that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This hearty recipe combines tender vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 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. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, kidney beans, spinach, and basil. 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, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loading Up with Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This creamy, comforting soup is a twist on traditional baked potatoes, loaded with cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 medium-sized baking potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Puree the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- In a separate pot, melt the grated cheddar cheese with the sour cream over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked bacon and cheese mixture to the potato soup. Stir until combined. Serve hot.
Cooking Time:
30-40 minutes
Simple Lentil Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of many cuisines around the world. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the nutty taste of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 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, 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 (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Beef Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and savory broth. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the garlic, mixed vegetables, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy black bean soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup
A classic French dish that combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 slices of baguette, toasted
– 2 tablespoons grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown.
2. Add the sugar and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until the liquid is almost completely reduced.
4. Add the beef broth to the pan and bring to a simmer.
5. Preheat the broiler.
6. To assemble the soup, place a toasted baguette slice in the bottom of an oven-proof bowl. Ladle the hot soup over the bread, followed by a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
7. Place the bowls under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Warm up with this creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup that combines the flavors of coconut, curry, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 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 heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Tortilla Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This recipe uses leftover tortillas to create a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, diced chicken, torn tortillas, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this Split Pea Soup with Ham is a classic recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, chicken broth, diced ham, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Tortellini Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, heavy cream, basil, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
3. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made by roasting butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle the cut side with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
4. Scoop the roasted squash into a blender or food processor with the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and broth.
5. Blend until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup a creamy texture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Classic Clam Chowder
This creamy and flavorful chowder is a staple of New England cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a comforting meal any time of the year. Made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and herbs, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 3-4 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add clams, clam juice, milk, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes or until clams open.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Soup
This creamy soup combines the tender flavors of spinach and artichokes with a hint of garlic and lemon, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the spinach leaves, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans and nutrient-rich kale, ideal for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is a twist on traditional Mexican street corn, with the added comfort of a warm and cozy bowl. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique side dish for your next fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 ears corn, husked and silked
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the corn and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A bright and citrusy soup that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the onion, garlic, lemon juice, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the orzo pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Easy Gazpacho
Gazpacho, a classic Spanish soup, gets a modern twist with this simple and refreshing recipe. Made with just a few ingredients, this gazpacho is perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more paprika if desired.
4. Stir in olive oil.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and chill.
Summary
Get ready to warm up your busy weeknights with these 20 delicious and easy soup recipes! From classic comfort foods like Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and Chicken Noodle Soup, to international flavors like Thai Coconut Curry Soup and Mexican Street Corn Soup, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Vegetable Beef Soup or a light and refreshing Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, these simple and satisfying recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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