Cozy up with a warm, delicious bowl of your favorite soup, without having to make a huge pot full. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered with these 20 cozy small batch soup recipes perfect for two.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring flavors from Italy to Thailand and beyond. From creamy tomato basil soup to spicy Thai coconut soup, each recipe has been carefully crafted to serve just two people – no more, no less. So go ahead, grab your favorite spoon, and get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A classic comfort food, this creamy tomato basil soup is a perfect blend of fresh flavors and velvety texture. Perfect for a cozy evening or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add tomatoes, broth, and basil; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat; let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan White Bean Soup
A rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the comfort of white beans with the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the white beans, chicken broth, and thyme. 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. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Soup
This spicy and savory soup is a classic Thai dish that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk with the bold heat of chilies. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, coconut milk, ginger, garlic, curry paste, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add diced tomatoes and mushrooms; cook until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
This refreshing soup combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of chicken and orzo, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in olive oil until cooked through.
2. Add garlic, broth, orzo, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Transforming seasonal squash into a creamy, comforting soup is as simple as roasting and blending. This recipe yields a deliciously smooth and aromatic soup perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, broth, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, with heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
French Onion Soup for Two
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese in this comforting soup, perfect for a cozy dinner for two.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 slices baguette
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
3. Add butter and wine (if using), stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and thyme, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Toast baguette slices and top each with a spoonful of soup and a slice of cheese.
7. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 3-4 minutes).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the health benefits of broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or nonfat)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 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 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, with the natural sweetness of carrots balanced by the pungency of fresh ginger. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cumin and a dollop of yogurt for added richness.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches 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 cumin leaves or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chopped carrots, grated ginger, and vegetable broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with fresh cumin leaves or chives.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Soup
This hearty soup is a celebration of nature’s bounty, featuring an array of wild mushrooms and the subtle warmth of thyme. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 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 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Add thyme sprigs and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of baked potatoes with the warmth and comfort of a hearty soup. The result is a deliciously creamy and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Minestrone Soup for Two
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe serves two and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1/4 cup cooked elbow macaroni
– 1/2 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and elbow macaroni.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this deliciously comforting soup that combines the flavors of chicken, tortillas, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add tortilla strips and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they have broken down and added to the soup’s creamy texture.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, nutrient-dense spinach, and aromatic spices. With its comforting flavors and nourishing properties, it’s an ideal meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil 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. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Curry Soup
Pumpkin curry soup is a creamy and comforting blend of fall flavors, perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the warmth of Indian spices, creating a unique and inviting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the pumpkin cubes and chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting, slow-cooked soup that’s packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a depth of flavor from aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a cold-weather pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, thyme, and barley. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
6. Cover and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Corn Chowder with Bacon
This hearty and comforting soup combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of bacon, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. With its creamy texture and flavorful broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 cups of frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion to the same pot and cook until translucent.
3. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, and cooked bacon to the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Roast red bell peppers until charred and smoky, then blend with aromatic spices to create a vibrant and flavorful soup.
Ingredients:
– 4 red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place red bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into large pieces.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add roasted peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
This classic soup recipe combines tender split peas with flavorful ham and aromatic spices to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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. Stir in the split peas, ham, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Inspired Wonton Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of Asian cuisine, filled with tender wontons and an array of vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and chopped cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the wontons by filling each wrapper with a small amount of your choice (e.g., pork, shrimp, or vegetables).
3. Once the broth is simmering, add the sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, and green onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the wontons to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Basil Soup
This refreshing summer soup combines the sweetness of zucchinis with the bright flavor of basil, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped zucchinis and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let steep for 10 minutes.
5. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or a regular blender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 small batch soup recipes perfect for two! From Creamy Tomato Basil to Roasted Red Pepper, each recipe yields just the right amount for a romantic dinner or a quiet night in. Discover flavors like Spicy Thai Coconut, Lemon Chicken Orzo, and Wild Mushroom and Thyme. There’s something for everyone in this collection of hearty and comforting soups that are easy to make and delicious to eat.
