Winter brings a chill that’s hard to shake. But nothing warms you up like a bowl of homemade soup. The smell of cooking and the feel of a thick broth can make you feel cozy and safe.
In this guide, we’ve picked 12 favorite winter soup recipes that are both nourishing and comforting. They are ideal for comforting both your body and mind.
Table of Contents
Our recipes range from classic chicken noodle to hearty vegetable soups. You’ll find creamy chowders, protein-rich lentil soups, and even Thai coconut curries. Each recipe is easy to make, needing just 10 ingredients or less.
This way, you can enjoy making your own winter soup. It’s a fun and rewarding process.
- 12 of the most popular winter soup recipes, including both classic and unique creations
- Diverse range of soups, from chicken noodle to vegetarian and vegan options
- Recipes designed for easy preparation, with 10 ingredients or less
- Emphasis on hearty, comforting, and flavorful winter soups
- Incorporation of seasonal ingredients and bold flavor profiles
Why Winter Soups Are the Perfect Comfort Food
When it gets colder and the days are shorter, nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade soup. In winter, hot soups are a great way to fight off the chill. They offer warmth, hydration, and important nutrients.
Health Benefits of Hot Soups in Cold Weather
Soups are tasty and good for you, especially when it’s cold. The hot broth can ease sore throats. The veggies, proteins, and starches in soups help your immune system and digestion.
Research shows hot soup can also help you eat fewer calories. It makes you feel full, which is great for keeping a healthy weight in winter.
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Soup Making
To make the perfect soup, you need the right tools. Start with a big, heavy pot or Dutch oven for simmering. An immersion blender is also key for smooth soups. And don’t forget a sturdy ladle for serving.
With the right kitchen gear and ingredients, you can make many tasty soups. From chicken noodle to vegetable chowders, the choices are endless. Soup is the best comfort food for winter.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot or Dutch Oven | Simmering and cooking the soup ingredients |
| Immersion Blender | Pureeing the soup for a smooth, creamy texture |
| Ladle | Serving the finished soup into bowls |
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Fresh Herbs
When winter comes, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s filled with tender chicken, egg noodles, and a broth full of fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. It’s an ideal choice when you’re feeling unwell or simply craving something soothing.
The secret to this soup is its simple yet powerful mix of ingredients. Onions, carrots, and celery are sautéed first. Then, chicken broth and a rotisserie chicken add heartiness. Dried bay leaves and fresh thyme add a special flavor to the broth.
Egg noodles are cooked separately to keep them just right. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end makes the flavors pop. This creates a balanced and satisfying chicken noodle soup.
| Serves | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 | 15 minutes | 25-30 minutes | 40-45 minutes |
This classic chicken noodle soup is a winter favorite. Serve it with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor. Enjoy the comforting warmth of a homemade meal.
For a gluten-free version, use whole-grain pasta or a gluten-free alternative instead of egg noodles. It can also be prepared in a slow cooker. This way, the delicious aroma of chicken noodle soup will fill your home all day.
Hearty Vegetable Wild Rice Soup
Get ready to enjoy a comforting vegetable wild rice soup. It’s perfect for a chilly winter day. This soup combines fresh vegetables with wild rice for a satisfying meal.
Best Vegetables to Include
Choose a variety of fresh, seasonal produce for your soup. This will add flavor and nutrition. Some top picks are:
- Carrots – for a natural sweetness and vibrant color
- Celery – to add a refreshing crunch and depth of flavor
- Kale or spinach – for a boost of leafy green goodness
- Mushrooms – to lend an earthy, savory element
- Zucchini or yellow squash – for a soft, tender texture
Wild Rice Cooking Tips
Here are some tips for cooking wild rice:
- Rinse the wild rice before cooking to remove any impurities.
- Allow for a longer cooking time compared to regular rice, as wild rice grains take longer to become tender.
- Use a ratio of 1 cup wild rice to 3 cups broth or water for optimal results.
- Simmer the wild rice gently until the grains have opened up and become fluffy, about 45-55 minutes.
By following these tips, your vegetable wild rice soup will be a hearty winter delight. Enjoy the nutty, chewy texture of the wild rice with fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Creamy Potato and Bacon Chowder
As winter arrives, there’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of creamy potato soup. This chowder combines soft potatoes, crispy bacon, and a flavorful broth, making it an ideal choice for a comforting lunch or filling dinner.
This chowder is quick to make, ready in under an hour. It serves 6 people, great for a family meal or leftovers. It’s also nutritious, with 485 calories, 65g carbs, and 21g protein per serving.
A good roux makes the soup thick and creamy. Russet potatoes are key, with their soft and smooth texture. Cut them small for even cooking.
The soup gets creamy from milk and chicken broth. An immersion blender makes it velvety. You can adjust the thickness with more broth or milk.
For extra flavor, top it with cheddar cheese, chives, or sour cream. Pair it with Cheddar Bay Biscuits, a fresh salad, or Roasted Green Beans for a full meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced | 4 cups |
| Bacon, cooked and crumbled | 1 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 4 tbsp |
| Chicken Broth | 3 cups |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Salt and Pepper | to taste |
Italian Wedding Soup with Homemade Meatballs
Get ready to indulge in the classic comfort of Italian wedding soup. This beloved dish combines delicate homemade meatballs, tiny soup pasta, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re seeking a cozy winter meal or simply craving a taste of Italy, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Making Perfect Soup Meatballs
The key to Italian wedding soup is the meatballs. Start by mixing together 12 ounces of ground meat. You can use chicken, turkey, pork, beef, or veal. Add 1/2 cup of dry breadcrumbs, 3 large eggs, and 1/2 cup each of grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses.
Also, add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You’ll get about 20-30 in total.
Choosing the Right Pasta
When it comes to the pasta in Italian wedding soup, small shapes work best. Use 3/4 cup of cooked acini di pepe or orzo. These tiny pasta varieties add a delightful texture and soak up all the flavors beautifully.
“The combination of the tender meatballs, the tiny pasta, and the flavorful broth make this soup a true delight.”
12 Favorite Winter Soup Recipes for Every Taste
As winter comes, a warm bowl of soup is just what you need. Our winter soup varieties offer everything from classic chicken noodle to spicy Thai soups. Find the perfect diverse soup flavors to warm you up in our soup recipe collection.
Our 12 favorite winter soup recipes cater to all tastes. You’ll find creamy, light, and spicy options. Try a butternut squash bisque, a Thai coconut curry, or a comforting chicken dumpling soup.
Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced cook, we have options for everyone. So, grab a spoon and enjoy these diverse soup varieties. Let them take you on a flavorful journey through winter.
| Soup Recipe | Calories per Serving | Nutrition Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Potato Soup | 289 calories | 19g fat, 11g saturated fat, 59mg cholesterol, 848mg sodium, 23g carb, 4g sugars, 1g fiber, 7g protein |
| Satisfying Tomato Soup | 76 calories | 2g fat, 0 saturated fat, 0 cholesterol, 627mg sodium, 13g carb, 9g sugars, 4g fiber, 2g protein |
| Cheddar Broccoli Soup | 252 calories | 16g fat, 11g saturated fat, 52mg cholesterol, 750mg sodium, 15g carb, 7g sugars, 3g fiber, 13g protein |
| Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup | 199 calories | 6g fat, 2g saturated fat, 73mg cholesterol, 663mg sodium, 14g carb, 2g sugars, 1g fiber, 22g protein |
| Butternut Squash Soup | 157 calories | 7g fat, 4g saturated fat, 17mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 23g carb, 6g sugars, 6g fiber, 3g protein |
| Creamy Vegetable Chowder | 205 calories | 10g fat, 4g saturated fat, 24mg cholesterol, 956mg sodium, 21g carb, 6g sugars, 3g fiber, 6g protein |
Looking for a classic or something new? Our winter soup varieties have it all. Explore our soup recipe collection and find your new favorite diverse soup flavors.
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Explore the world of Thai coconut curry soup. It’s a spicy treat that mixes coconut milk with Thai curry paste. This makes a warm, comforting dish perfect for cold days. Let’s look at the key ingredients and how to adjust the spice level.
Essential Thai Ingredients Guide
This Thai coconut curry soup starts with a few key ingredients. They help bring out the true Thai flavors:
- Coconut milk – Gives the soup its creamy, rich texture.
- Thai curry paste – Adds bold, spicy flavors, choose red or green.
- Fish sauce – Brings a savory, umami taste to the broth.
- Lemongrass – Adds a subtle citrus aroma and flavor.
- Kaffir lime leaves – Gives a unique, fragrant taste.
- Thai basil – Adds a fresh, herbal touch.
Spice Level Adjustments
You can adjust the spice level to your liking. Start with a small amount of curry paste and add more for more heat. For an extra kick, add sliced fresh chili peppers. Or, for a milder soup, use less curry paste or skip the chili peppers.
Prep time is just 10 minutes, and cooking takes 45 minutes. This recipe serves 4 and keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Enjoy the warm, bold flavors of this Thai soup, coconut curry, and spicy soups delight!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| White onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 cube |
| Curry powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Butternut squash, cubed | 1 cup |
| Red curry paste | 3 tablespoons |
| Chili flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coconut milk | 1 can |
| Boiling water | 4-6 cups |
| Vegetable stock paste | 2 teaspoons |
| Nutritional yeast | 2 tablespoons |
| Coconut aminos | 1 tablespoon |
| Tofu, cubed | 1 cup |
| Vermicelli rice noodles, uncooked | 45g |
Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup
Get ready to cozy up with a hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup! It’s perfect for chilly winter days. It combines tender beef, nutritious barley, and various vegetables. The slow cooker method blends the flavors, making a rich and satisfying soup.
This soup is easy to make, with just 15 minutes of prep and 6 hours of cooking. It serves 4 people and has a 4.97 out of 5 rating from 130 votes. It’s a favorite among home cooks.
Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is key. It adds depth to the flavor and texture. The soup makes about 2 quarts, great for family meals or meal prepping.
Each serving has 338 calories, 30g of carbs, 33g of protein, and 10g of fat. It also has 7g of fiber and 5g of sugar. It’s a balanced and satisfying option.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 338 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 33g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
Looking for a comforting meal or a hearty option for meal prepping? Try the Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup. It’s a delicious blend of flavors and nutritious, making it a new favorite.
Butternut Squash Bisque
Winter’s chill is perfect for a warm bowl of creamy butternut squash bisque. It highlights the sweet taste of roasted butternut squash. The soup is smooth and rich.
Roasting Tips for Maximum Flavor
To make this soup taste amazing, roast the squash right. Toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices. Roast at 425°F for 40-50 minutes until it’s tender and caramelized.
Garnishing Ideas
- Toasted pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch
- A swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk for a luxurious touch
- Crispy sage leaves for an aromatic finish
- Freshly cracked black pepper to add a subtle kick
Over 500 reviews love this butternut squash soup. It’s creamy and delicious. Enjoy it as a starter or with a salad or sandwich for a cozy fall meal.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 141 |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 8mg |
| Sodium | 1168mg |
Looking for a cozy meal or want to impress guests? This butternut squash bisque is perfect. Its creamy texture and comforting flavors make it a favorite fall soup.
Classic French Onion Soup
Enjoy the rich flavors of French onion soup this winter. It’s made with caramelized onions in a savory beef broth. Topped with crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese, it’s perfect for warming up.
To make the best French onion soup, caramelizing the onions is key. This can take up to 1.5 hours. But the sweet flavor it adds is worth it. Use yellow and red onions for a richer taste.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 596 |
| Total Fat | 24.2g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.4g |
| Cholesterol | 67.4mg |
| Sodium | 907.8mg |
| Carbohydrates | 64.2g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.7g |
| Total Sugars | 21.8g |
| Protein | 22.4g |
The secret to great French onion soup is the balance of sweet onions and savory broth. Add a splash of dry white wine for acidity. Top it with bread and Gruyère cheese for a treat.
“A steaming bowl of French onion soup, with its molten cheese topping, is the epitome of comfort food on a chilly winter day.”
Instant Pot Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Get ready to enjoy a quick, nourishing, and flavorful lentil soup in your Instant Pot! You can use different lentil types, each with its own cooking time and texture. Choose from hearty brown lentils or vibrant green French lentils for a perfect winter warmer. This soup is easy to customize to your taste.
Pressure Cooking Time Guide
Making lentil soup in the Instant Pot is fast. Just 15 minutes of high-pressure cooking gets you a delicious, nutritious soup. Brown or French green lentils work best, keeping their shape well. Red lentils, however, break down more, making the soup creamy.
Lentil Varieties and Cooking Tips
- Brown Lentils: Cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
- French Green Lentils: Cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
- Red Lentils: Cook for 12 minutes on high pressure.
Allow the pressure to naturally release for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid. This ensures the lentils are fully cooked and the flavors blend beautifully.
To make this Instant Pot lentil soup even healthier, add your favorite veggies like carrots, celery, onions, and spinach or kale. You can also add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This hearty lentil soup will be a favorite in your pressure cooker recipes collection.
Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup
Winter is here, and with it comes the perfect time for a cozy soup. This Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup is just what you need. It’s a mix of earthy mushrooms and nutty wild rice in a creamy sauce. It’s a great choice for vegetarians or anyone who loves a good soup.
This soup has a variety of mushrooms, giving it different tastes and textures. The wild rice adds a unique nuttiness and chewiness. It’s quick to make, ready in just 10 minutes and cooks in about 40 minutes.
This soup is both tasty and nutritious. Wild rice is full of antioxidants, fiber, and may help with inflammation. The creamy sauce is made with plant-based milk and flour, keeping it nutritious. It’s perfect for a comforting meal or a healthy winter treat.
Conclusion: Warm Up with These 12 Favorite Winter Soup Recipes
As the weather turns colder, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade soup. Whether you’re craving something hearty, creamy, or light, these 12 favorite winter soup recipes offer the perfect combination of flavors to warm you up from the inside out. From rich and filling stews to lighter vegetable-based options, these soups are sure to become staples in your winter menu.
So, gather your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and try out these recipes for a season of warmth and comfort. Don’t forget to share your favorite winter soup recipes with us in the comments below, and let us know which ones you’ll be making all winter long!