As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to brighten up your mood. Whether you’re huddled by the fireplace or cozied up on the couch with a good book, these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new winter favorites. From creamy tomato basil soup to hearty vegetable minestrone, slow cooker beef stew to spicy Thai coconut curry soup, there’s something for everyone in this collection of cozy cold day recipes.
So grab a spoon and let the warmth spread – your taste buds (and your belly) will thank you!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup is a perfect blend of fresh flavors, with a creamy twist that will leave you wanting more. A great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, cream or half-and-half, tomato paste, and basil. Stir well.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting beef stew cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion to the slow cooker.
2. Brown the beef stew meat in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add it to the slow cooker.
3. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Low heat: 8-10 hours
– High heat: 4-6 hours
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic recipe is a staple for any occasion, whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a warm, satisfying meal. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a hint of aromatic spices, this homemade chicken noodle soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, and basil; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
4. Serve the soup hot, with the cooked noodles added on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Bacon Chowder
Warm up with this creamy, comforting soup that combines the richness of cheese, the savory flavor of bacon, and the comfort of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon and grated cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Lentil and Sausage Soup
This hearty soup combines the warmth of red lentils with the spice of Italian sausage, all wrapped up in a rich and comforting broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, broth, tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese in this timeless French classic.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices and grated Gruyère cheese.
7. Place under broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Hearty Vegetable Minestrone
This Italian-inspired soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, and basil.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of slow-cooked beef and barley soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
White Chicken Chili
This hearty and comforting chili is a twist on traditional red chilies, featuring tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as needed.
4. Add green chilies, beans, broth, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in half-and-half or heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Get cozy with this creamy soup that combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato with the warmth of a comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon dried chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced bacon, chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to pot.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
This classic comfort soup is a hearty blend of split peas, ham, and spices that’s easy to make and perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split green peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, chicken broth, diced ham, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, showcasing the best of autumn’s harvest. With roasted butternut squash and crisp apples, this recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
5. Add chopped apples, roasted squash, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Blend soup until smooth, then season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs
This creamy clam chowder gets a bright and refreshing twist with the addition of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives), chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer; cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
5. Stir in chopped fresh herbs.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made with tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion)
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 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, sauté the mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in the wild rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
This chili is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional recipes, packed with fiber-rich black beans, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add sweet potato and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, bell pepper, vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the flavors of Morocco with the comfort of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 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 cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Soup
A rich and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this creamy mushroom and thyme soup is made with fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, and herbs. Serve it as a starter or pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable 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, garlic, and thyme. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and spicy Thai-inspired soup, featuring the creamy richness of coconut milk and the bold flavors of curry paste.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Corn and Cheddar Chowder
A creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Soup
A rich and creamy soup that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, sage, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender in batches and blend, then return to pot.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Warm up on cold days with these delicious and cozy recipes. From classic comfort foods to international twists, this list has something for everyone. Try creamy tomato basil soup, slow cooker beef stew, or homemade chicken noodle soup for a warm and fuzzy feeling. If you’re looking for something new, try the spicy lentil and sausage soup or the Moroccan chickpea stew. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll never be stuck without something tasty and satisfying. So go ahead, grab a blanket, and get cozy with these cold day recipes.
