There’s something special about Sundays. Maybe it’s the chance to slow down after a busy week, or the opportunity to catch up on some well-deserved relaxation. Whatever the reason, Sundays are the perfect day to gather around the table with loved ones and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup.
As the weather starts to cool down, our thoughts turn to hearty, satisfying soups that can be savored on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or international and exotic, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share 18 cozy Sunday soup recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Stay tuned for some of our most beloved soups, from creamy tomato basil to spicy black bean, and everything in between!
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A rich and comforting soup that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, sweet basil, and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken noodle soup! This easy recipe is perfect for a chilly day or when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, and onions)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of uncooked noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 2 tbsp of butter
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, vegetables, broth, noodles, butter, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This classic recipe combines tender beef, creamy barley, and rich flavors to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, barley, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment it brings to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and potatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Potato Leek Soup
A classic comfort food, this potato leek soup is a perfect blend of creamy and flavorful. With its silky texture and subtle sweetness from the leeks, it’s sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Minestrone Soup with Pasta
This classic Italian soup is a comforting blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a flavorful broth. Serve hot with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, kidney beans, and spinach. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This Spicy Black Bean Soup recipe combines the richness of black beans with a kick of heat from jalapeños and cumin, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly days.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup, infused with the earthy notes of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
5. Scoop out the flesh and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
6. Add the chopped onion, garlic, broth, heavy cream, butter, and sage. Blend until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
French Onion Soup with Gruyère
A classic French soup elevated by the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the pan and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
3. Add broth, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
6. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Split Pea and Ham Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Split Pea and Ham Soup, a classic combination that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 ham hock or 2 slices of cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine peas, chicken broth, ham hock or sliced ham, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Remove the ham hock or sliced ham from the pot, then use two forks to pull apart any remaining meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the meat to the pot.
4. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a popular Thai dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of curry spices, perfect for a comforting meal. With its subtle balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, this recipe makes for a delicious and satisfying serving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat.
2. Add the curry paste, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is fragrant.
3. Stir in the coconut cream and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with fish sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Transform humble cauliflower and garlic into a rich, creamy soup that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual bulbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
3. While the cauliflower is roasting, place garlic bulbs on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and mashed-like in texture.
4. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened. Add roasted garlic and cauliflower to the pot, along with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired soup, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, corn kernels, and cilantro; stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Add tortilla strips during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional ingredients.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
Warm up with this hearty and aromatic soup, infused with the flavors of Morocco. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), 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
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, chickpeas, broth, and tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Soup
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Soup: A hearty and aromatic soup that showcases the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot 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 10 minutes.
3. Add the thyme sprigs, garlic, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup with Turmeric
A vibrant and warming soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger and turmeric.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, turmeric, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Kale Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans, nutritious kale, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the beans, broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Rice Soup with Lemon
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing twist on classic chicken and rice soup, featuring the citrusy zing of lemon. This comforting bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a soothing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, rice, broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on Sundays with these 18 delicious soup recipes! From classic comfort foods to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy creamy tomato basil soup, slow cooker chicken noodle soup, and hearty beef and barley soup. Or try something new like Moroccan lentil and chickpea soup, Mexican tortilla soup, or Thai coconut curry soup. Whatever your taste, these soups are sure to warm your heart and belly on a chilly Sunday afternoon.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
