20 Cozy Winter Soups For Busy Nights

After a hectic day, what do you usually have for dinner when it’s chilly outdoors, the kids are asking endless questions, and you’re looking at an empty refrigerator?

Soup is always my first choice. When you put your hands around a steaming bowl of delicious savory food, something amazing happens. It has the strange power to transform a hectic day into something that feels doable and warms you from the inside out.

There’s a reason why soups are the ideal comfort food. They are forgiving, adaptable, and frequently come together more quickly than you may imagine.

Among my favorite bits, too? To make every recipe genuinely unique, I add my own spices. Soups are like a blank canvas waiting for your distinctive touch, whether it’s a dash of smoky paprika for a little bite or a sprinkling of nutmeg for added warmth.

I’ve compiled 20 comforting winter soups in this post that are ideal for hectic evenings. No matter what the day brings, they’re quick, filling, and sure to keep you and your family warm, content, and perhaps even a little less worried.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Credit: Ally Recipes
Nothing beats a steaming bowl of creamy tomato basil soup on a chilly day. This classic comfort dish is smooth, rich, and packed with the bright, fresh flavors of tomato and basil.

Pair it with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or some crunchy croutons for the ultimate cozy meal. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for when you want something warm and satisfying with minimal effort.

Pro Tip: For an extra punch of flavor, stir in a spoonful of pesto or drizzle some balsamic glaze on top.

Servings: 4
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups ripe tomatoes (or 28 oz canned tomatoes)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add tomatoes and broth, then simmer for 20 minutes.
Blend until smooth. Stir in heavy cream, then season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Credit: butteryourbiscuit.com
All the best parts of a loaded baked potato—now in a creamy, comforting soup! This dish is cheesy, buttery, and topped with crispy bacon for the ultimate indulgence.

Customize it however you like! Add more cheese, skip the bacon, or throw in some jalapeños for extra heat. It’s your bowl, your rules!

Pairing Idea: Serve with a simple salad or garlic bread—or just grab a spoon and dig in straight from the pot. No judgment here!

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Simmer diced potatoes in chicken broth for 15 minutes or until tender.
Mash some of the potatoes for thickness. Stir in milk and cheese until melted.
Top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and green onions. Serve warm.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Credit: gourmetmartha.com
Nothing soothes the soul like a bowl of classic chicken noodle soup. This timeless favorite is light, flavorful, and packed with comforting ingredients.

Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut! Feel free to toss in extra veggies or swap egg noodles for a different pasta to make it your own.

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra kick!

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups egg noodles
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for 5 minutes.
Add broth and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in chicken and noodles. Cook until noodles are tender. Season and serve.

Butternut Squash Soup

Credit: recipesbylaura.com
This velvety butternut squash soup is naturally sweet, creamy, and full of comforting fall flavors. Roasting the squash brings out its caramelized depth, making every bite even better.

Want to elevate it? Sprinkle in some cayenne for a spicy kick or swirl in coconut milk for extra creaminess. Either way, it’s a simple yet flavorful soup you’ll love.

Servings: 4
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
3 cups vegetable broth
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add butternut squash, broth, and nutmeg. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until squash is tender.
Blend soup until smooth. Stir in cream if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with pumpkin seeds and serve warm.

French Onion Soup

Credit: bloglovin.com
French onion soup is rich, savory, and topped with a layer of gooey, melted cheese. The slow-caramelized onions bring deep, sweet flavors, while the crusty bread soaks up all the goodness.

Pro Tip: Traditional Gruyère is a classic choice, but white cheddar or mozzarella can add a fun twist!

Servings: 4
Ingredients:

3 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
4 slices crusty bread
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat butter and oil in a pot. Add onions and cook over low heat for 40 minutes until caramelized.
Add wine and deglaze the pot. Stir in broth and simmer for 20 minutes.
Ladle soup into bowls, top with bread and cheese, and broil until cheese is melted.

Lentil and Spinach Soup

This soup is my go-to when I need something filling, nutritious, and comforting all in one bowl. Lentil and spinach soup delivers on all fronts—packed with protein, rich in flavor, and wholesome enough to keep you energized even on your busiest days.

Lentils bring an earthy, hearty texture that makes this soup feel like a warm hug, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of vitamins. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Make it Vegan: Just swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip any cheese toppings. It’s just as flavorful—maybe even better!

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
3 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until soft.
Add lentils, broth, cumin, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 25–30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Stir in spinach and cook for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Nothing says cozy like a bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup. It’s the perfect mix of indulgent and hearty, making it a must-have for chilly nights.

The slightly chewy texture of wild rice pairs beautifully with tender shredded chicken in a rich, creamy broth. It’s an easy way to turn a simple meal into something a little special without much effort.

Customize It: Want more veggies? Add mushrooms, carrots, or even a handful of fresh spinach. Short on time? Use pre-cooked wild rice and rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.

Pro Tip: Toasting the wild rice before cooking enhances its nutty flavor and takes this soup from delicious to unforgettable.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup uncooked wild rice
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded chicken
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Melt butter in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Add wild rice and broth, then simmer for 40 minutes until the rice is tender.
Stir in shredded chicken and cream, then season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Beef and Barley Soup

When you’re in the mood for something hearty but not overly heavy, beef and barley soup is the perfect choice. This classic dish is packed with tender beef, chewy barley, and loads of comforting flavor.

The beauty of this soup is its flexibility—you can toss in extra veggies like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to make it even heartier. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Pro Tip: To get a deeper, richer broth, take a few extra minutes to sear the beef before simmering. This simple step makes the soup taste like it’s been slow-cooked for hours.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups beef broth
1 cup pearl barley
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Add beef back in, along with broth, barley, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer for 45 minutes until beef is tender.
Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.

Italian Wedding Soup

Italian wedding soup is the ultimate comfort food with a little bit of everything—juicy meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.

It’s easy to customize by swapping in different greens like spinach or escarole, and the mix of beef and pork in the meatballs keeps them extra juicy. This soup feels fancy but is simple enough to make on a weeknight.

Pro Tip: Simmering the meatballs in the soup instead of baking them first gives them incredible flavor and tenderness.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:

1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup acini di pepe or small pasta
3 cups baby spinach or escarole
Grated Parmesan for garnish

Directions:

Mix all meatball ingredients in a bowl, then roll into small 1-inch balls.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sear meatballs until browned. Set aside.
Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in the same pot for 5 minutes.
Add broth and bring to a boil. Stir in meatballs and pasta, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Add spinach and cook for another 2 minutes.
Serve with grated Parmesan on top.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you love rich, cheesy soups, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a must-try. It’s thick, velvety, and packed with fresh broccoli for a satisfying balance of indulgence and nutrition.

Sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor, while a touch of cream makes it irresistibly smooth. Plus, it’s easy to blend for your preferred texture—leave some chunks for a rustic feel or make it completely smooth.

Pro Tip: Use extra sharp cheddar for the best cheesy flavor, and top with crispy bacon or croutons for a little crunch.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

4 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups broccoli florets
2 medium carrots, grated
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add broccoli, carrots, and broth. Simmer for 20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks.
Whisk flour into milk and stir into the soup. Simmer until thickened.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup

This soup is a powerhouse of bold flavors—rich, hearty, and with just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. The smoky sausage infuses the broth with deep, savory notes, while the kale adds a fresh, slightly earthy balance. It’s an easy and quick meal, perfect for those nights when you want something comforting but hassle-free.

Pro Tip: Want more spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Prefer a milder version? Swap out the spicy sausage for a sweet variety to keep the flavors balanced.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

1 lb spicy Italian sausage
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 large potato, diced
4 cups chopped kale
Salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste

Directions:

Cook the sausage in a pot until browned, then set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and carrots in the sausage drippings for 5 minutes.
Pour in the broth and add the potatoes. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Stir in the kale, heavy cream, and cooked sausage. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve warm.

Tortilla Soup

A warm, flavorful, and slightly tangy soup that feels like a comforting bowl of Tex-Mex goodness. With shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and a burst of lime, this dish captures the essence of a delicious taco in soup form. It’s easy to customize—add beans, avocado, or even more veggies for a personal touch.

Pro Tip: Want the ultimate crunch? Fry your own tortilla strips instead of using store-bought chips. And whatever you do, don’t skip the fresh lime juice—it ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) black beans, rinsed
2 cups shredded chicken
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips, avocado, lime, and cheese for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add chili powder, cumin, broth, tomatoes, beans, and corn. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in shredded chicken and cook for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with tortilla strips, avocado, lime, and cheese.

Clam Chowder

If you’re craving a creamy, comforting soup with a taste of the sea, clam chowder is the way to go. It’s rich, briny, and packed with tender clams and soft, hearty potatoes. Best of all, it comes together easily with pantry-friendly ingredients like canned clams and broth.

Pro Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the onions and celery in bacon fat instead of butter. It adds a subtle smokiness that makes the chowder even more irresistible.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cups potatoes, diced
3 cups chicken broth
2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams, with juice
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Melt butter in a pot, then sauté the onion and celery until soft.
Add potatoes, broth, and clam juice, then let it simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour into the heavy cream, then stir into the soup. Let it thicken.
Add clams, season with salt and pepper, and let cook for 2 more minutes. Serve warm.

Split Pea Soup with Ham

Thick, hearty, and packed with smoky goodness, this split pea soup is a cozy classic. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover ham and makes for a filling, nourishing meal on chilly days.

Pro Tip: For the best consistency, let the soup simmer until the peas fully break down. Want it smoother? Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender while keeping some texture for that rustic feel.

Servings: 6
Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
6 cups chicken broth
1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Add split peas, broth, ham bone or diced ham, and bay leaf. Simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
Remove the bay leaf and blend slightly if you prefer a smoother texture. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

Thai Coconut Curry Soup

This soup brings bold Thai flavors to your table with creamy coconut milk, fragrant curry, and a fresh squeeze of lime. It’s a restaurant-worthy dish that’s easy to make at home. Add shrimp, chicken, or extra veggies for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro, red chili slices, or crushed peanuts for extra layers of flavor and texture. And don’t forget the lime—it makes all the difference!

Servings: 4
Ingredients:

1 tbsp coconut oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp red curry paste
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro and red chili slices for garnish

Directions:

Heat coconut oil in a pot, then sauté onion, garlic, and curry paste for about 2 minutes.
Add broth, coconut milk, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp, lime juice, and fish sauce. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and red chili slices.

Mushroom Soup

Credit: gourmetmartha.com

Creamy, earthy, and packed with deep umami flavors, homemade mushroom soup is an easy way to add a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you’re serving guests or just want to enjoy a cozy bowl on your own, this soup delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.

Pro Tip: Use a variety of mushrooms—such as cremini, shiitake, or porcini—for a richer, more complex flavor. Stirring in a bit of cream at the end elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button), sliced
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until softened (about 8–10 minutes).
Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring for about a minute.
Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Credit: damndelicious.net

This soup takes classic chicken noodle soup up a notch by swapping in cheesy, tender tortellini. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ideal for busy nights when you want something quick but comforting.

Pro Tip: Opt for fresh, store-bought tortellini to save time. Add it toward the end of cooking to keep the pasta perfectly tender.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded chicken
2 cups fresh cheese tortellini
1 cup baby spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the shredded chicken and tortellini, cooking until the pasta is tender (about 5 minutes).
Add the spinach and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.

Minestrone

Credit: skinnytaste.com

This Italian vegetable soup is a nutritious and flavorful classic that can be customized with whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s hearty, warming, and perfect for meal prepping.

Pro Tip: For a deeper, umami-packed flavor, toss in a Parmesan rind while simmering. It adds richness without extra effort!

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cooked kidney beans or cannellini beans
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Add zucchini, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, beans, oregano, and basil. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Stir in the pasta and cook until tender (around 8 minutes).
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Chili Soup

Credit: littlechefwithin.com

Is it chili? Is it soup? It’s both! Packed with ground beef, beans, and a flavorful tomato base, this dish is a perfect combination of warmth and heartiness. It’s a go-to for game nights, family meals, or when you’re just craving something extra satisfying.

Pro Tip: Get creative with toppings! Sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and even crushed tortilla chips can make it even more delicious.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in tomatoes, beans, corn, broth, and spices. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions.

Egg Drop Soup

Credit: damndelicious.net

For a quick and satisfying meal, egg drop soup is a perfect choice. This Chinese takeout favorite is light, comforting, and incredibly easy to make at home. The silky egg ribbons in the savory broth give it a fancy feel with minimal effort.

Pro Tip: Drizzle a little sesame oil and sprinkle green onions on top for extra flavor. Want more texture? Add a handful of corn or mushrooms for a delicious twist.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

4 cups chicken broth
2 eggs, beaten
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Directions:

Bring chicken broth to a boil in a pot. Stir in sesame oil, soy sauce, and the cornstarch slurry.
Slowly pour in the beaten eggs while gently stirring to create silky ribbons.
Season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with green onions and serve warm.