Winter is here, and what better way to warm up than with a comforting bowl of soup? As the temperatures drop, our cravings for hearty, satisfying meals only increase. And what’s more perfect for a cold winter’s night than a delicious, creamy, and cozy soup that warms the soul? In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering winter soup recipes that are sure to become your new go-to comfort foods. From classic Chicken Noodle Soup to spicy Butternut Squash Soup, and from hearty Beef and Barley Stew to creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to cozy up with a warm bowl of goodness!
Creamy Potato and Leek Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and velvety texture, making it a great option for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, perfect for any time of the year.
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, broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from pot and shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken to pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hearty Vegetable Minestrone
This classic Italian soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich broth. This recipe makes a large batch, ideal for sharing or freezing for later.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe brings together the warm, comforting flavors of butternut squash and the spicy kick of cumin and red pepper flakes. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups chicken or 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. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the cooked squash into a blender or food processor.
6. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes, broth, and heavy cream (if using).
7. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Winter Soup
Warm up with this hearty and nutritious soup that combines the comfort of lentils with the sweetness of carrots. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s day, as it’s easy to make and packed with fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and carrots in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This classic comfort soup gets a delightful twist with the addition of crispy grilled cheese croutons, adding texture and flavor to every spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes, broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Meanwhile, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
5. Chop the grilled cheese into small cubes and sprinkle on top of the soup.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew
Warm up with a hearty and comforting beef and barley stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This classic recipe combines tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add barley, broth, browned beef, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until barley is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup. This recipe combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk
– 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, garlic, and flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup Recipe
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of roasted garlic’s rich flavor and cauliflower’s subtle sweetness, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 whole bulbs of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In the same oven, place garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in a little bit of olive oil until translucent.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, vegetable broth, and roasted garlic to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of roasted turkey with nutty wild rice and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed wild rice blend
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced turkey, chicken broth, wild rice blend, red bell pepper, and canned tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the wild rice is tender.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, chicken broth, ham, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture 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. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Pumpkin Soup
This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the warmth of Indian spices, creating a comforting and flavorful soup perfect for fall or winter gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and aromatic bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin, broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Blend soup until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, crispy tortillas, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add the tortilla strips to the pot. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tortillas are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zuppa Toscana with Kale and Sausage
This comforting Italian-inspired soup is a twist on the classic Olive Garden recipe, featuring spicy sausage and nutritious kale. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken broth, water, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup Recipe
This hearty and aromatic soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, with the warm spices and tender lentils evoking the vibrant souks and bustling streets of Marrakech. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
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, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the lentils, broth, and water. 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. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a cozy evening, this Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder is a delightful combination of tender potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add corn kernels and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère
This rich and flavorful soup is a French culinary staple, featuring caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices Gruyère cheese, about 1/8 inch thick
– Freshly grated black truffle, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add oil, onions, garlic, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are dark golden brown (about 20 minutes).
2. Add broth, wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Place a slice of Gruyère on top of each bowl.
5. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Garnish with black truffle, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 35 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup with Avocado
Spicy Black Bean Soup with Avocado: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño in a little water until tender.
2. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve the soup hot, topped with sliced avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro (if using), and a squeeze of lime juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup. In this article, we’ve gathered 18 delicious and easy winter soup recipes to help you do just that. From classic chicken noodle soup to creamy broccoli cheddar soup, there’s something for everyone. Try our Spicy Butternut Squash Soup or Hearty Vegetable Minestrone for a nutritious and filling meal. Or, warm up with a bowl of Creamy Potato and Leek Soup or Beef and Barley Stew. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to become winter staples in no time.
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