15 Hearty Winter Soup Recipes to Keep You Warm All Season

When the colder weather starts to creep in, there’s nothing nicer than warming up with a comforting bowl of homemade soup. I love making soup from scratch at this time of year – it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside! Soup is so easy to make and it’s a great way to add extra veggies into the kids’ diets without them realising! Soup is also a fantastic meal for those of us watching our budgets – you can make it as cheap as you like by simply using up what you have in fridge. Buying seasonal vegetables is also a great way to save some money too. I’ve got 15 winter soup recipes here that use ingredients readily available at this time of year.

I’ve always made soup with a good old-fashioned pan on the stove and a handheld immersion blender, but you can also adapt these recipes to make in a soup maker if you have one too.

Why You’ll Love These Winter Soup Recipes:

1. Warm and Comforting: Perfect for chilly winter days, these soups provide warmth and comfort.
2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for a healthy meal.
3. Easy to Make: Simple recipes that don’t require advanced cooking skills or hard-to-find ingredients.
4. Versatile Options: From creamy bisques to hearty stews, there’s a soup for every palate.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Many of these soups can be made in large batches and frozen for later use.
6. Budget-Friendly: Utilize affordable, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and cost-effective meals.
7. Dietary Variety: Includes recipes that cater to various dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb.
8. Rich Flavors: Each recipe is designed to maximize flavor, using spices and herbs to enhance the taste.
9. Family-Friendly: Kid-approved recipes that the whole family will enjoy.
10. Boosts Immunity: Many soups are made with ingredients like garlic, ginger, and leafy greens that support the immune system.
11. Customizable: Easy to adapt recipes to suit your personal taste or dietary restrictions.
12. Great for Entertaining: Impress guests with a warm, homemade soup that’s perfect for winter gatherings.
13. Hydrating: Soups help keep you hydrated, which is especially important during the dry winter months.
14. Low-Calorie Options: Enjoy hearty meals without the guilt, with plenty of low-calorie recipes included.
15. Culinary Exploration: Discover new flavors and cuisines with diverse soup recipes from around the world.

You should also take a look at my crockpot winter soup recipes and my crockpot winter chicken soup recipes for more ideas!

15 Winter Soup Recipes

1. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

This creamy butternut squash soup is perfect for chilly winter evenings. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it a comforting classic.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
2. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

2. Hearty Beef and Barley Soup

This hearty beef and barley soup is a meal in itself. Packed with tender beef, nutritious barley, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish to warm you up.

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
3. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, barley, bay leaf, and thyme.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef and barley are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

3. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

A timeless favorite, this classic chicken noodle soup is both nourishing and delicious. It’s the perfect remedy for cold winter days.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup egg noodles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the sliced carrot and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Add the egg noodles and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

4. Spicy Black Bean Soup

This spicy black bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. It’s packed with protein and has a delightful kick.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
2. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.

5. Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup

This creamy mushroom and wild rice soup is a luxurious and earthy dish that’s perfect for winter. The combination of mushrooms and wild rice creates a rich and satisfying flavor.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice
• 1 lb mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their juices and become tender.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked wild rice and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

6. Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup

This sweet potato and lentil soup is a nutritious and hearty dish that’s perfect for winter. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a deliciously sweet and savory flavor.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, red lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and coriander to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

7. Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

This Thai coconut chicken soup, known as Tom Kha Gai, is a fragrant and exotic soup that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk, lemongrass, and lime. It’s a warming and aromatic dish perfect for winter.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 stalks lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and smashed
• 4 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 1-inch piece of galangal or ginger, sliced
• 3-4 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the chicken broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal or ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Add the sliced chicken, mushrooms, and chilies to the pot. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and lime juice. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove the lemongrass and lime leaves before serving.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

8. Moroccan Harira Soup

Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s hearty and full of flavor. It’s made with a blend of lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, and is often enjoyed during the winter months.

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped celery and carrots, cooking for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the soaked chickpeas, lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chickpeas and lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.

9. Italian Ribollita Soup

Ribollita is a traditional Tuscan soup that’s both rustic and hearty. Made with stale bread, cannellini beans, and a variety of vegetables, it’s a perfect winter comfort food.

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of stale country bread, cut into cubes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and chopped kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. Add the cubed stale bread to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the broth and break down.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

10. Hungarian Goulash Soup

Hungarian Goulash is a traditional and hearty soup that’s rich with beef, paprika, and potatoes. It’s a warming and flavorful dish perfect for winter.

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into small cubes
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and red bell peppers. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

11. French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a classic and elegant dish that features caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, topped with a cheesy crouton. It’s a perfect winter comfort food.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are deeply caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, chicken broth, white wine, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
5. Preheat the broiler. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and broil until golden brown.
6. Ladle the soup into ovenproof bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese.
7. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot.

12. Indian Mulligatawny Soup

Mulligatawny is a traditional Indian soup that’s rich and aromatic, made with lentils, apples, and a blend of spices. It’s a unique and flavorful dish perfect for winter.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped carrot and apple, cooking for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander, cooking for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
4. Add the red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

13. Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

This roasted red pepper and tomato soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for winter. The sweetness of the roasted peppers combined with the tanginess of tomatoes creates a delightful balance.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 4 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. To roast the red peppers, place them under a broiler or over an open flame until the skin is charred. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap for 10 minutes, then peel off the skin and remove the seeds.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the roasted red peppers and crushed tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

14. Creamy Cauliflower and Potato Soup

This creamy cauliflower and potato soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for winter. The combination of cauliflower and potatoes creates a velvety texture that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped cauliflower and cubed potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the milk or cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives if desired.

15. Curried Pumpkin Soup

This curried pumpkin soup is a warm and spicy dish that’s perfect for winter. The sweetness of the pumpkin pairs beautifully with the aromatic spices, creating a rich and comforting soup. If you’re looking for more pumpkin recipes, I’ve got some here I think you’ll love.

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in the curry powder and ground cumin, cooking for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
3. Add the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Let me know which recipes you try out and which is your favorite!