When the weather turns chilly or you need a quick, comforting meal, soups are the perfect answer. The best part? Many delicious soups can be whipped up in just 30 minutes or less.
Here are 15 quick and easy recipes that bring big flavors to your table without a long wait.
1. Classic Tomato Basil Soup
This velvety tomato basil soup combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil for a timeless favorite. With just a few ingredients—canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and fresh basil—this recipe is quick yet flavorful.
Puree the mixture for a smooth texture and add a drizzle of cream for extra richness. Perfect as a side or main dish, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich.
2. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a zesty tomato base, chicken tortilla soup is a hearty and flavorful option. This soup comes together quickly using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese for added texture and taste. A squeeze of lime juice before serving brings the whole bowl to life.
3. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm, comforting, and cheesy, this broccoli cheddar soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tender broccoli and melted sharp cheddar cheese makes every bite satisfying.
A simple roux helps thicken the soup while blending part of the broccoli keeps it rich yet textured. Serve it in a bread bowl for an extra-special presentation.
4. Quick Miso Soup
Miso soup is an easy-to-make, traditional Japanese dish that is light yet packed with umami. With only a handful of ingredients like miso paste, tofu, seaweed, and green onions, this soup is a perfect starter or light meal.
Simply dissolve the miso paste in hot water, add tofu cubes, and garnish with chopped green onions. Ready in minutes, this is a go-to for a cozy, warming dish.
5. Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup comes together quickly with tender meatballs, leafy greens, and orzo pasta swimming in a savory chicken broth. Pre-made meatballs or fresh ones that cook in minutes keep this recipe speedy.
The balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables makes this soup a filling option. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of indulgence.
6. Spicy Thai Coconut Soup
This Thai coconut soup, or Tom Kha Gai, delivers a rich, spicy, and tangy flavor profile that is sure to impress. Made with coconut milk, chicken, mushrooms, and fragrant herbs like lemongrass and ginger, this soup comes together in no time.
The hint of heat from Thai chili paste adds the perfect amount of kick. Serve with a side of jasmine rice for a heartier meal.
7. Hearty Lentil Soup
Loaded with fiber and plant-based protein, this lentil soup is both healthy and delicious. With ingredients like green or brown lentils, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a filling and nutritious meal.
Simmering the lentils in vegetable or chicken broth with a touch of cumin and smoked paprika infuses the dish with flavor. Serve with a crusty piece of bread to soak up every last bit.
8. Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. Whisked eggs are drizzled into simmering chicken broth, creating delicate ribbons of egg.
A touch of soy sauce and sesame oil enhances the flavor, while cornstarch gives it the perfect consistency. Add chopped green onions for a fresh bite.
9. Quick Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is a comforting classic that comes together surprisingly fast. With potatoes, leeks, garlic, and a hint of thyme, this soup is blended for a creamy, satisfying texture.
Using vegetable or chicken broth keeps the flavors rich without the need for heavy cream. Pair with a fresh baguette for a simple yet hearty meal.
10. Tortellini Spinach Soup
Tortellini spinach soup is an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Pre-made tortellini cooks in minutes and adds a burst of cheesy flavor, while fresh spinach provides a dose of greens.
Simmered in a broth seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, this soup is flavorful and quick. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra layer of taste.
11. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Bright and refreshing, lemon chicken orzo soup is a twist on the classic chicken noodle. The combination of chicken, orzo pasta, carrots, celery, and a splash of lemon juice creates a light yet filling dish.
The lemon brings a unique zest that elevates the overall flavor profile. It’s perfect for those days when you want comfort food without feeling too weighed down.
12. 20-Minute Pho
Enjoy the aromatic flavors of Vietnamese pho without hours of simmering. Using store-bought beef or chicken broth, enhanced with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, creates a delicious base.
Add thin slices of beef or chicken, rice noodles, and a garnish of fresh herbs like cilantro and basil. Top with bean sprouts and a squeeze of lime for an authentic finish.
13. Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
This coconut curry lentil soup is a vibrant dish that packs bold flavors in a short amount of time. Red lentils cook quickly and absorb the warm spices of curry powder and turmeric.
Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the spiciness. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for both lunch and dinner.
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