Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to cooking? Look no further! As the saying goes, “soup is the answer” – and we’re not just talking about any old soup. We’re talking about 20 quick and easy soup recipes that are perfect for busy days.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these soups are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? They can be whipped up in no time at all, leaving you more time to focus on the things that matter most (like catching up on your favorite TV show or getting some extra shut-eye).
From comforting classics like Chicken Noodle Soup and Beef and Barley Soup, to innovative options like Thai Coconut Curry Soup and Roasted Red Pepper Soup, we’ve got a soup for every taste bud. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and get ready to slurp your way to culinary bliss!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This recipe yields a rich and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 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 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, broth, and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting classic, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium 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 or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Minestrone
This classic Italian soup is a hearty and flavorful blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 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 and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta, and cannellini beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the goodness of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 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 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, garlic, and flour; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Soup
Lentil and Spinach Soup Recipe
Warm up with this nourishing and flavorful soup, packed with the goodness of lentils and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, with optional lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Warm up with this creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup that combines the richness of coconut milk, the spiciness of curry paste, and the comfort of tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired. Add cooked chicken or shrimp if using.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Potato Leek Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of potatoes, leeks, and aromatics. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Rich and flavorful, this Mexican Tortilla Soup is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and shredded chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Add tortilla strips and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tortillas are tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and cilantro.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
French Onion Soup
Experience the rich flavors of France with this classic French Onion Soup recipe. Thinly sliced onions caramelize to perfection, blending with beef broth and melted cheese for a satisfying soup.
Ingredients:
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook until onions are caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add beef broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Place bowls under the broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup
This vibrant soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a cozy and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil until they start to soften.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are 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 heavy cream to add a creamy touch.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea Soup
A classic comfort food, this split pea soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, combine the split peas, chicken broth, butter, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Corn Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of corn chowder, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly fall day. This recipe combines sweet corn, tender potatoes, and savory spices in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels, diced potato, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
This classic soup recipe combines the rich flavor of beef with the comforting warmth of barley, making it a perfect cold-weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe
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This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of flavors and colors, with the sweetness of roasted red peppers balanced by a hint of garlic and cream. Serve it as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
————
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
————-
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool down.
4. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
5. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
6. Add the roasted red pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
9. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
10. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Rice Soup
Soothe your soul with this comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. Tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy rice come together in a deliciously easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious black bean soup recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this soup is packed with protein-rich black beans, flavorful spices, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a classic Spanish soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy bread to create a deliciously cooling treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Add breadcrumbs and stir until well combined.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy soup that requires no cooking time at all.
Clam Chowder
Savor the classic flavors of New England with this rich and creamy clam chowder recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (6.5 oz) can chopped clams
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups milk
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, clam juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat; add milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in chopped clams. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Soup
This recipe yields a creamy and flavorful soup that’s perfect for the fall season. With roasted pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a hint of nutmeg, you’ll be cozying up to this deliciousness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss pumpkin with butter, cumin, coriander, and nutmeg on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add roasted pumpkin, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Lentil Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup made with a variety of vegetables and lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
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 red bell pepper, 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 heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 quick and easy soup recipes perfect for busy days! From classic comfort foods like Chicken Noodle Soup and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, to international flavors like Thai Coconut Curry Soup and Gazpacho, there’s something for everyone. These soups are all made in under 30 minutes and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting or light and refreshing, these recipes have got you covered.
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