Are you tired of the same old soup recipes? Look no further! Soups are a staple of any meal, providing comfort, nourishment, and endless possibilities for flavor and creativity. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 flavorful souped-up recipes.
From classic combinations to international twists, these soups are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen repertoire. Imagine a rich and creamy Lobster Bisque with Sherry, a spicy and aromatic Tom Yum Soup with Shrimp, or a comforting and warming Butternut Squash Soup with Sage… the possibilities are endless!
In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these delicious recipes, exploring their unique flavors and ingredients, and providing you with the inspiration you need to take your soup game to the next level. So let’s get started and see where the soups will take us!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on classic chicken noodle soup, with the added richness of cream and the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a flavorful blend of Thai spices, coconut milk, and your choice of protein or vegetables. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Your choice of protein or vegetables (e.g., chicken, shrimp, bell peppers, mushrooms)
– 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, 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add your choice of protein or vegetables; cook until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hearty Beef and Barley Stew
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender beef, nutty barley, and rich vegetables in a flavorful broth, perfect for a cozy night in. A hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and feeds the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– 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. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the barley, broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup that’s packed with the flavors of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or as a twist on traditional potato soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chives.
4. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon bits.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this vibrant and flavorful soup, packed with juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon kick. This comforting bowl is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add the cooked chicken and orzo pasta back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Black Bean and Chorizo Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage with the deep smokiness of chipotle peppers, all wrapped up in a creamy black bean broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chorizo; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, chipotle peppers, and cumin.
5. Pour in broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich Lobster Bisque with Sherry
Experience the decadence of a luxurious seafood soup with this rich lobster bisque recipe, infused with the warm flavors of sherry and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lobster meat (claw and body), diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup sherry
– 1/2 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add wine, sherry, and stock, whisking continuously.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of white beans, kale, and tomatoes, perfect for a cozy night in or as a warm, nourishing meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped kale (stemmed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in cannellini beans, vegetable broth, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fiery Tom Yum Soup with Shrimp
This classic Thai soup gets a boost of flavor from the addition of shrimp, making it a perfect combination of spicy and savory. Serve with steamed jasmine rice to balance out the heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 shrimps, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/2 teaspoon Tom Yum paste
– 1/4 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon palm sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine water, oil, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and Tom Yum paste in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
2. Add shrimps, fish sauce, palm sugar, lime juice, and chili flakes. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimps are pink and cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Velvety Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Velvety Butternut Squash Soup with Sage! This creamy and aromatic soup is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, and its subtle sweetness makes it a great accompaniment to crusty bread or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
4. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add roasted squash, heavy cream, and sage. Blend until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Mexican Street Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with traditional chowder ingredients, resulting in a unique and delicious twist. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until tender.
2. Add corn kernels, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, cumin, and queso fresco (if using).
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled queso fresco if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
A classic French soup elevated by crispy, cheesy croutons and melted Gruyère cheese.
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 of baguette, toasted and cubed
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, onions, salt, and pepper. Cook until onions are softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add beef broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Place toasted baguette cubes on a baking sheet and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil until golden brown and crispy.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, then top each bowl with a crouton and melted Gruyère cheese. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Kimchi and Tofu Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew combines the bold flavors of kimchi with tender tofu, perfect for a cozy night in. A twist on traditional Korean stews, this recipe adds a creamy element from the tofu and a pop of spice from the gochugaru.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Stir in kimchi, Gochujang, and gochugaru. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado Crema
Elevate your soup game with this flavorful and creamy recipe that combines the comforting warmth of chicken tortilla soup with the richness of avocado crema. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium onions
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Avocado Crema:
+ 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
+ 1/2 cup sour cream
+ 1 tbsp lime juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil until tender.
2. Add chicken, broth, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in tortilla pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. For Avocado Crema, blend avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and salt until smooth.
5. Serve soup with a dollop of Avocado Crema on top and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Wild Mushroom and Thyme Soup
Savor the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and thyme in this rich and creamy soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 15 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Harira with Chickpeas and Lentils
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the nutty flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
New England Clam Chowder with Herbs
This creamy, comforting soup is a staple of New England cuisine, elevated by the addition of fresh herbs. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and scrubbed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
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, flour, milk, clam juice, thyme, and parsley. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Rare Beef and Herbs
Pho, Vietnam’s national noodle soup, is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, soft noodles, and fresh herbs. This recipe features rare beef and a variety of aromatic herbs for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound rare steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Fresh herbs: basil, mint, cilantro, and bean sprouts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
2. Add sliced rare steak to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes or until desired level of doneness.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Ladle hot broth over noodles and beef. Garnish with fresh herbs and bean sprouts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine! This collection of 18 soups offers a flavor-filled solution for every occasion. From classic comfort foods like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup and Hearty Beef and Barley Stew, to international inspirations such as Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Soup and Moroccan Harira with Chickpeas and Lentils, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and refreshing, these soups are sure to please. So go ahead, get cozy, and dig in!
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