10 Quick and Healthy Soup Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Healthy soup recipes can be lifesavers on those busy weeknights when time is tight, but you still want something nutritious and satisfying. Packed with flavor and easy to whip up in no time, these recipes will help you create comforting meals that fit your hectic schedule. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to quick, homemade goodness!

Quick Chicken Tortilla Soup For A Flavorful Kick

Chicken tortilla soup is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The vibrant colors in the bowl make it visually appealing, while the mix of ingredients brings a delightful taste to your dinner table.

This soup features tender chicken, black beans, and fresh vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. Topped with creamy avocado, crunchy tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro, it’s a meal that feels special without taking too much time to make.

Gather your ingredients and get ready for a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love. Here’s how to whip up this quick chicken tortilla soup!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Tortilla strips, for topping

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Serve hot, topped with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and tortilla strips.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup For Simple Comfort

Nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup after a long day. This dish is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant red color of the soup, topped with fresh basil and a swirl of cream, is as inviting as it is delicious.

The rich flavors of ripe tomatoes combined with aromatic basil create a delightful experience. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, and you have a meal that feels special without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Here’s how to make this comforting soup:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of diced tomatoes)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
5. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of cream, alongside crusty bread.

Spicy Black Bean Soup For A Zesty Dinner

Spicy black bean soup is a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients. The rich, dark color of the soup hints at the depth of taste waiting for you. Topped with fresh cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

The vibrant garnishes contrast beautifully with the deep hue of the soup. Lime wedges on the side add a refreshing zing, perfect for brightening up each spoonful. This soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly evening while keeping things light and healthy.

Making this soup is simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, and it’s perfect for meal prep. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a more filling meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend, and return it to the pot.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an extra kick.

Savory Mushroom Barley Soup For Earthy Flavors

When you think of comfort food, a warm bowl of soup often comes to mind. This savory mushroom barley soup is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with earthy flavors and is incredibly satisfying. The combination of mushrooms and barley creates a rich texture that warms you from the inside out.

The image captures a delicious bowl of this soup, garnished with fresh parsley. You can see the tender mushrooms and vibrant carrots, making it not only tasty but visually appealing too. The barley adds a hearty element, making this dish a complete meal.

This soup is easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour. It’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (any variety)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their moisture.
3. Stir in the pearl barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Simple Chicken Noodle Soup For Classic Comfort

Chicken noodle soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort, especially on busy weeknights. The image shows a steaming bowl of this classic soup, filled with tender chicken, vibrant carrots, and hearty noodles. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time.

This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and noodles creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies!

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes.
5. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Delicious Butternut Squash Soup For A Seasonal Delight

Butternut squash soup is a warm hug in a bowl. This creamy, vibrant dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful blend of flavors that celebrate the season. The rich orange color of the soup is inviting, and the toppings of pumpkin seeds and a swirl of cream add a nice touch.

To make this soup, you'll need fresh butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and a few spices. The combination of these ingredients creates a comforting meal that can be ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Start by roasting the butternut squash to enhance its natural sweetness. Then, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Combine everything in a pot, add broth, and let it simmer. Finally, blend until smooth for that creamy texture we all love.

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fall flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
5. Stir in the heavy cream if using, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds.

Classic French Onion Soup For A Gourmet Touch

French onion soup is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any busy weeknight. The rich, savory broth, combined with sweet caramelized onions, creates a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. Topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, it’s a gourmet touch that feels special, even on a hectic evening.

The image showcases a steaming bowl of this delicious soup, garnished with fresh thyme and golden-brown cheese bubbling on top. The warm tones of the broth and the crispy bread create an inviting scene, perfect for a cozy dinner. Surrounding the bowl are fresh ingredients like an onion and a baguette, hinting at the simple yet flavorful components that make this dish shine.

Making French onion soup is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that feels fancy without the fuss. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add Broth and Wine: Pour in the beef broth and white wine. Stir in the thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Soup: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a few slices of toasted baguette and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with extra thyme if desired, and enjoy your gourmet French onion soup!

Nutritious Miso Soup For A Quick And Easy Option

Miso soup is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients. The image shows a steaming bowl of miso soup, filled with tofu, seaweed, and green onions. It’s served alongside sushi, making it a perfect meal for those who love Japanese cuisine.

This soup is not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own. The umami flavor from the miso paste brings everything together, creating a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Here’s how to make a simple yet delicious miso soup:

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup miso paste
• 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup fresh spinach or seaweed
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Optional: mushrooms, carrots, or other veggies

Instructions

1. Boil the Water: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add Miso: Reduce the heat and stir in the miso paste until dissolved.
3. Add Tofu: Gently add the cubed tofu and let it warm for a few minutes.
4. Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or seaweed and let it cook for another minute.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy!

Savory Corn Chowder For A Sweet And Creamy Treat

Corn chowder is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any busy weeknight. This creamy soup is packed with sweet corn, potatoes, and vibrant veggies, making it a delightful choice for dinner. The bright colors of the ingredients, like the golden corn and fresh parsley, make it visually appealing, too!

The chowder is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when time is tight. The combination of creaminess and sweetness from the corn creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to make this delightful corn chowder!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the chopped red bell pepper and diced potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky if you prefer. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Wholesome Chicken And Rice Soup For A Balanced Meal

Chicken and rice soup is a classic comfort food that warms you up on busy weeknights. This dish is not just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables makes it a balanced meal that everyone will love.

The image shows a steaming bowl of chicken and rice soup, filled with tender pieces of chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice. The steam rising from the bowl hints at its warmth and freshness. Served with crispy crackers on the side, this meal is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Making this soup is simple and quick. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when time is short. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add minced garlic and chicken pieces. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the rice and thyme. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy with crackers on the side.