Soup, the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a warm and cozy meal to beat the chill, or just need a quick and easy lunch option, there’s no denying that soup has its place in our hearts (and stomachs!). But let’s be real – soups can be pricey, especially if you’re buying them pre-made at your local deli. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 budget-friendly cheap soup recipes that are easy to make and won’t break the bank.
From hearty lentil and vegetable soups to creamy tomato basil soups, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. Plus, many of these recipes use affordable ingredients like canned beans and vegetables, making them perfect for those on a tight budget. So go ahead, give one (or three) a try, and warm up with the knowledge that you’re saving your hard-earned cash.
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Lentil and Vegetable Soup is packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup with Homemade Broth
This classic comfort food is elevated by using homemade broth, made with chicken bones and aromatic vegetables. The result is a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, combine chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from oven and add chicken bones, water, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until broth is rich and flavorful.
6. Add cooked noodles and chicken to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons
This creamy and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crunchy croutons. A delicious and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, 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 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Croutons (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and basil. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Croutons:
– 1/2 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil and salt.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Minestrone Soup with Pasta and Beans
This Italian-inspired soup is a comforting blend of pasta, beans, and vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cooked kidney beans, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir gently to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
A classic comfort food, this creamy soup is a hearty and flavorful way to warm up on a chilly day. This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of split peas with the smoky richness of ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
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 the peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in butter until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Vegetable Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made with a medley of vegetables, barley, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cabbage and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender vegetables and creamy potatoes, ideal for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in butter until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and milk or cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Bean Soup with Lime
This vibrant soup is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional black bean soup, with the added brightness of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 tablespoons)
– Chopped cilantro, 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 tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the vegetable broth, black beans, and lime juice.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn Chowder with Bacon
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn, smoky bacon, and creamy goodness. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the grease in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy kick of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are very tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the nutrients of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli florets, garlic, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until combined.
5. Add the remaining cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Soup
This hearty and nutritious soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the creamy texture of chickpeas and the vibrant flavor of spinach, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Mexican Tortilla Soup Recipe
Warm up with a rich and flavorful Mexican classic!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
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 vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and add tortilla strips; cook for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this flavorful soup, packed with nutritious vegetables and tender lentils.
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 sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with this creamy and comforting pumpkin soup infused with the rich flavor of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced pumpkin, chicken broth, coconut milk, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Rice Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of home cooking, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick meal on-the-go. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Onion Soup with Crusty Bread
A classic French soup that’s both rich and satisfying, made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
• 4 slices of crusty bread, toasted
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the saucepan and cook until liquid is almost completely evaporated.
3. Add beef broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer while you toast bread and prepare cheese topping.
5. Preheat broiler. Place toasted bread slices on top of soup and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and nutritious soup that combines the comfort of lentils with the spice of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add onion, garlic, tomatoes, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with a warm bowl of soup! This article features 18 budget-friendly and deliciously easy-to-make soup recipes to help you warm up on a cold day. From classic chicken noodle to hearty lentil and vegetable, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make homemade broth, croutons, and more with these simple and affordable recipes.
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