As the temperature drops and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or a quick lunch solution, these 20 hearty filling soup recipes are sure to hit the spot. From classic combinations like creamy potato and bacon to bold international flavors like Moroccan lentil and Thai coconut curry, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So why not take the chill off with a steaming hot bowl of goodness? In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the most satisfying and filling soups that are sure to become new favorites. So grab a spoon and get ready to cozy up!
Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the creaminess of potatoes, smokiness of bacon, and a hint of sweetness from onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little bit of oil until translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Stew
This comforting stew combines the warmth of lentils with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken 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, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the sausage to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This classic recipe combines tender beef, sweet barley, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 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, brown the beef in 2 tbsp oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef broth, barley, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the barley is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Warm up with this classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This hearty soup is filled with tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and potatoes in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the pot and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings have risen to the surface.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
Spicy Black Bean Soup Recipe
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Spicy Black Bean Soup recipe combines the comfort of black beans with the kick of spicy peppers. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying bowl in no time.
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 finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the red bell pepper and jalapeño, cooking until tender.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with this creamy, comforting soup that combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato with the convenience of a bowl. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced bacon, chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender; blend until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This rich and creamy Thai-inspired soup combines the warmth of coconut milk with the bold flavors of curry powder, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; 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 flavors have melded together.
6. Add peas and carrots; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Minestrone with Italian Sausage
This classic Italian soup is a comforting blend of vegetables, beans, and sausage, perfect for a cozy meal or leftovers. With the addition of Italian sausage, this recipe packs an extra punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp 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 a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This hearty and nutritious stew is a perfect blend of creamy chickpeas, tender spinach, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, 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. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Chowder
Warm up with this comforting, one-pot dish that combines tender beef and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, corn, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the frozen vegetables, beef broth, milk, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made with creamy cannellini beans, tender kale, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the greens have wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Moroccan Lentil Soup
Warm up with a hearty and aromatic Moroccan Lentil Soup, rich with the flavors of cumin, coriander, and paprika. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that’s packed with nutrients and flavor! This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in a delicious and creamy package.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 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, cauliflower, and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup combines the flavors of tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and savory vegetables to create a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the water or chicken broth, wild rice, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Mexican cuisine, packed with flavorful ingredients like tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and rich broth. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in tortilla strips and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
A classic comfort food, this split pea and ham soup is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter 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 dried split peas, chicken broth, and diced ham.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This rich and flavorful soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the sweetness of tomatoes, the creaminess of heavy cream, and the brightness of fresh basil, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Hungarian Goulash Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich paprika broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as chuck or shank), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Corn and Potato Chowder
A warm and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Corn and Potato Chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the earthiness of potatoes. A rich and creamy broth ties everything together.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup of frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese in this classic French soup.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted and cubed (for croutons)
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler. Place toasted baguette cubes on a baking sheet and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with a crouton. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
Summary
Get cozy on cold nights with these hearty and filling soup recipes! From classic combinations like beef and barley, to international twists like Moroccan lentil and Thai coconut curry, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy potato and bacon, spicy black bean, or loaded baked potato soups. Or go old-school with chicken and dumpling or French onion. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart. So grab a spoon and get ready to slurp up the comfort!
