As the temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just need a cozy pick-me-up on a chilly winter evening, these 18 heartwarming Christmas soup recipes are sure to become new favorites. From classic French onion to creamy roasted butternut squash and spicy sausage and kale, each one is designed to warm your belly and your spirits.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the holiday season, exploring the rich flavors and textures of these delicious soups. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, there’s something here for everyone. So grab a spoon and let’s dive into the cozy world of Christmas soup!
Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
A warm and comforting soup perfect for the fall season, this creamy roasted butternut squash soup is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of autumn.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the squash for about 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with the chopped onion, garlic, heavy cream, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons: A hearty and flavorful soup that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Toast baguette slices until crispy.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice, then sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
7. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of spicy sausage, savory kale, and aromatic onions, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale leaves (stemmed and chopped)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and a hint of aromatic spices. It’s an ideal comfort food for chilly days or when you need a nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Add turkey, wild rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Potato and Bacon Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and crumbled bacon. 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.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
Warm up with this hearty Moroccan-inspired Lentil and Chickpea Soup, infused with aromatic spices and a rich, comforting flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, 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
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup and crispy croutons, all in one bowl! This recipe combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and melted cheese for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Grated cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir in basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Meanwhile, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice.
5. Place bread slices, buttered-side down, on the grill. Top with grated cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
7. Use grilled cheese croutons as a garnish for the soup.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty, comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups mixed root vegetables (carrots, turnips, rutabaga, potatoes)
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add more oil if necessary, then sauté the root vegetables until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add barley, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Chicken and Wild Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this rich and comforting soup, featuring tender chicken and a medley of earthy wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with this comforting Carrot Ginger Soup with Coconut Milk!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped carrots, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until desired consistency is reached.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and season with pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Ham Hock Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, tender ham hocks, and aromatic vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy or cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 2 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place ham hocks in a large Dutch oven or pot. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add soaked beans, chicken broth, water, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Remove ham hocks from the pot and let cool. Shred meat from bones; return to the pot.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Pumpkin Curry Soup with Crispy Shallots
Warm up with a comforting bowl of pumpkin curry soup, infused with aromatic spices and topped with crispy shallots.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Shallots, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted pumpkin, vegetable broth, coconut milk, and heavy cream (if using); simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup thickens slightly.
6. Meanwhile, toss shallot slices with a pinch of salt and roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Serve warm soup topped with crispy shallots and garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Homemade Croutons
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the best of both worlds: tender broccoli and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Serve with crunchy homemade croutons for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the soup:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the croutons:
– 1 loaf baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broccoli and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
4. Return soup to pot; add milk and cheese. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with olive oil and salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smokiness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional chicken tortilla soup, adding the creamy richness of avocado and a hint of lime. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broth, diced tomatoes, and tortilla pieces. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in diced avocado and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup: A Creamy and Comforting Treat
This recipe combines the deep flavors of roasted garlic with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower to create a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and roasted garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add vegetable broth and roasted cauliflower to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender and blend in batches.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Lemony Lentil Soup with Spinach
Brighten up a chilly day with this vibrant and nutritious soup, infused with the zest of lemon and the earthy goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Clam Chowder with Crispy Bacon
A creamy and flavorful clam chowder recipe that combines the richness of clams with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of clams, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Pour in the clam juice and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and add the clams. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this Christmas with these 18 heartwarming soup recipes. From creamy roasted butternut squash to spicy sausage and kale, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic French onion or a Moroccan lentil and chickpea soup, you’ll find inspiration in these comforting and flavorful soups. With ingredients like turkey, wild rice, potatoes, and bacon, these recipes are sure to become new holiday traditions.
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