I know, I know – someone who lives in southern California talking about the weather being “chilly”. I can basically hear the eyes rolling. BUT – whether the weather is just a tad mild or bone-chillingly cold, a cozy bowl of soup can warm you up from the inside out, and are a great way…
I know, I know – someone who lives in southern California talking about the weather being “chilly”. I can basically hear the eyes rolling. BUT – whether the weather is just a tad mild or bone-chillingly cold, a cozy bowl of soup can warm you up from the inside out, and are a great way to get in tons of nutrients! Read on for my favorite 20 Cozy Soups and Stews for Chilly Days ahead!
Why Soups and Stews Are The BEST
Warmth and Comfort: There’s nothing more cozy and satisfying than a hot bowl of soup on a cold day.
Versatility: There are endless flavor possibilities when it comes to soups. You can cater them to tons of taste and dietary preferences.
Nutritional Benefits: It’s SO easy to pack soup and stew recipes with healthy ingredients like vegetables, legumes and proteins, which is great when you’re working on getting some nutrient-rich food in your kids’ bodies!
Leftovers For The Win: Making a double batch of soup is my favorite because the leftovers are just as delicious. They’re practical and budget-friendly recipes for meal planning.
My Favorite Soup and Stew Recipes
Chicken Soup & Rice
Chicken Soup and Rice is a classic staple when it comes to making soup. It's hearty and delicious and the perfect thing to eat when you're feeling under the weather or just want something comforting to eat!
This yummy Broccoli Soup has fresh broccoli, starchy potatoes and vegetable broth to create a scrumptious and smooth soup that will easily have you wanting seconds (and thirds)!
Smoky Red Lentil Stew is the perfect weeknight meal. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also packed with protein with a smoky kick from smoked paprika.
Beef stew was one of my favorite meals growing up, so I loved creating this recipe. Warm and full of flavor, you'll savor every bite of this Beef Stew in the Crock Pot!
Roasted Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially during the cold months. Paired with a delicious grilled cheese, there’s no better combination!
I've been cooking celery root for years in salads, soups, just plain roasted and in purees. It's one of my favorite foods and this Celery Root Soup is really healthy, while also being naturally creamy and hearty.
Alphabet Soup might be the most kid-friendly and fun recipe that exists! Make a batch of this tasty soup for your get and they'll spell "YUM!" in their bowl.
This French Onion Soup is hearty, comforting and full of flavor. It's prepared with beef broth and caramelized onions and topped with crispy bread and ooey gooey Swiss cheese. What's not to love?
This Crock Pot Mexican Corn and Bean Soup takes less than 15 minutes to put this hearty dish together in the crock pot and features a rainbow of nutritious veggies your kids are sure to love.
Roast Vegetable Soup is filled with all your favorite vegetables and is so easy to make. The roasted vegetables give it a warm caramelized flavor to keep your family toasty all winter long!
Who doesn’t love a quick and comforting bowl of ramen? This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup recipe is a healthier version of the classic packaged ramen, and it’s just as convenient! This homemade version is loaded with umami flavor, and best of all, you can customize it with your favorite veggies, protein, or seaweed for a heartier meal.…
Who doesn’t love a quick and comforting bowl of ramen? This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup recipe is a healthier version of the classic packaged ramen, and it’s just as convenient! This homemade version is loaded with umami flavor, and best of all, you can customize it with your favorite veggies, protein, or seaweed for a heartier meal.
From kids to college students to adults, I don’t know many people who don’t love a good ramen noodle soup. It’s quick, easy and not to mention super affordable! This version takes it to the next level and boosts the nutritional value a bit! Here’s why I love it:
Healthier than store-bought ramen. By skipping the seasoning packet, you avoid excess sodium and artificial additives. Instead, miso, soy sauce, and spices bring a deep, savory flavor to your bowl.
Quick and Easy: Just like my Ramen Noodle Stir Fry and Dumpling Soup, this recipe is super easy to make. Ready in less than 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Use cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu and throw in some fresh veggies like spinach or seaweed to make this dish your own. I usually lay out a bunch of options, let everyone tell me which ones they want and personalize each person’s bowl!
The Ingredients
Chicken Stock or Vegetable stock – Make your own chicken stock or use your favorite store-bought stock as the base for a flavorful soup.
Yellow or white miso – Adds richness and umami flavor to the soup.
Packaged ramen noodles – Seasoning packet discarded for a healthier option. You could also use soba noodles, rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti if you wanted!
Shiitake mushrooms, sliced thin – For that earthy flavor and extra nutrition! Feel free to substitute other vegetables you have on hand if your crew doesn’t like mushrooms.
Soy sauce – Adds depth and saltiness. Opt for low sodium if you’re looking to have less salt content.
Mirin – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you’re having trouble finding mirin, try your local Asian grocery store!
Garlic powder & Onion powder – For that classic savory seasoning.
Scallions – Adds freshness and crunch at the end.
Optional Add-ins: Fresh spinach, nori, wakame, hijiki, arame, chicken, shrimp, or cubed tofu – the perfect way to customize your ramen.
*For a full list of ingredients and measurements, see the recipe card below.*
How to Make Healthier Ramen Noodle Soup
Step 1: In a large saucepan, add the chicken or vegetable stock, water, and miso. Bring everything to a boil.
Step 2: Add the ramen noodles, mushrooms, and any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, tofu, or additional veggies. Cook for 3 minutes, until the noodles are soft and everything is heated through.
Step 3: Add the scallions and serve.
Tips for Customizing Your Ramen
For a protein boost: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with cubed tofu.
Boost the greens: Fresh spinach, nori, or even a sprinkle of wakame will add some nutrition and texture to your bowl.
Spice it up: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or top with chili flakes for a kick.
This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup lets you enjoy all the comforting flavors of ramen but with a healthier, more wholesome twist. It’s so simple, you’ll forget about those salty seasoning packets forever! Whether you need a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner everyone will love, this recipe will hit the spot.
This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup lets you enjoy all the comforting flavors of ramen but with a healthier, more wholesome twist. It's so simple, you'll forget about those salty seasoning packets forever!
In a large saucepan, add the chicken or vegetable stock, water, and miso. Bring everything to a boil.
Add the ramen noodles, mushrooms, and any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, tofu, or additional veggies. Cook for 3 minutes, until the noodles are soft and everything is heated through.
Add the scallions and serve.
Video
Notes
For a protein boost: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with cubed tofu.
Boost the greens: Fresh spinach, nori, or even a sprinkle of wakame will add some nutrition and texture to your bowl.
Spice it up: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or top with chili flakes for a kick.
It’s summertime, which means it’s time for fresh and delicious gazpacho! This quick and easy gazpacho recipe is as refreshing as a summer breeze. When it’s hot outside and you want something light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this chilled tomato-based soup is perfect. I have been waiting since LAST summer to make this recipe again. Gazpacho is one…
It’s summertime, which means it’s time for fresh and delicious gazpacho! This quick and easy gazpacho recipe is as refreshing as a summer breeze. When it’s hot outside and you want something light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this chilled tomato-based soup is perfect.
I have been waiting since LAST summer to make this recipe again. Gazpacho is one of my husband’s favorite foods. He begs me to make it even in the depth of winter, but the thought of making it when tomatoes are not in season goes against everything I stand for! If you’re like me, you try to avoid turning on the oven during the hot summer months. Instead, I’ve been making fresh salads, chilled avocado soup, summer fruit gazpacho and other summer recipes like strawberry popsicles. Gazpacho is the quintessential summer recipe — totally cool, light and refreshing.
Why I Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors: Each spoonful of this gazpacho soup recipe is a burst of freshness, combining the natural sweetness and tang of tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Nutritional: Packed with fresh vegetables, this no-cook chilled soup is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for a warm summer day.
Simplicity: With minimal preparation and no cooking required, gazpacho is incredibly quick and easy to make. You should try my Summer Fruit Gazpacho recipe while you’re at it too!
Cool for summer: Perfect for hot days, gazpacho is served chilled to provide a refreshing break from the summer heat.
The Ingredients
The best gazpacho recipe is only as good as the ingredients in it. Choose the freshest, most beautiful ingredients you can find to ensure a vibrant and delicious soup!
Fresh Tomatoes: The star of the show! Any type of tomato will work, just choose the best ones you can find either at the farmers market or grocery store.
Cucumbers: This ingredient adds a refreshing and crisp flavor.
Red onion: A little red onion adds a bit of bite, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness, vibrant color, and a dose of vitamin C.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with a subtle, savory depth.
Extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil makes the soup rich and creamy.
Sherry vinegar: Adds a delicious tang!
Balsamic vinegar: More tang! Add as little or as much as you want according to your taste.
Salt and Pepper (or chili flakes): These make all the flavors pop!
*For a complete list of ingredients and instructions, see the recipe card below.*
How to Make Quick and Easy Gazpacho
Step 1: Start by chopping your ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and red bell pepper into manageable pieces.
Step 2: Place all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Strain if desired.
Step 3: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Chill in the refrigerator for an hour. When ready to enjoy, serve chilled.
Tips for the Best Gazpacho
Use the Ripest Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of your gazpacho. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results. There’s a reason I wait until the summer to make this recipe!
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the ingredients. Like it tangier? Add more vinegar. Prefer it spicier? Increase the chili flakes. You could also add a couple stalks of celery!
Serve with Garnishes: Top your gazpacho with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, pepitas or croutons for added texture and flavor.
Strain if Desired: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining solids.
Let it Chill: Let the gazpacho chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold, straight from the fridge, for the best experience!
FAQs
How long will gazpacho last in the fridge?
Gazpacho will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
Can you freeze gazpacho?
Yes, you can freeze gazpacho! Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and label with the date. It’ll keep for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Give it a quick stir or blend to refresh its smooth texture, and it’s ready to serve!
With so many vegetables in this beautiful chilled summer soup, it’s like eating a big ol’ bowl of health. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those ripe tomatoes and cucumbers from your garden. Let me know what you think of this recipe by leaving a comment and rating below!
Thisquick and easy gazpacho recipe is as refreshing as a summer breeze. When it's hot outside and you want something light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this chilled tomato-based soup is perfect.
Place all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Strain if desired.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let the gazpacho chill in the fridge for at least an hour.
Serve chilled.
Video
Notes
Use the Ripest Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of your gazpacho. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results. There’s a reason I wait until the summer to make this recipe!
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the ingredients. Like it tangier? Add more vinegar. Prefer it spicier? Increase the chili flakes. You could also add a couple stalks of celery!
Serve with Garnishes: Top your gazpacho with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or croutons for added texture and flavor.
Strain if Desired: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining solids.
Let it Chill: Let the gazpacho chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it cold, straight from the fridge, for the best experience!
Buffalo Chicken Soup is warm, cozy, and packed with flavor. Serve it up with crusty bread for a satisfying finish…
Buffalo Chicken Soup is warm, cozy, and packed with flavor. Serve it up with crusty bread for a satisfying finish to a chilly day. Using an Instant Pot makes prep virtually effortless.
Buffalo Chicken Soup has everything you need to finish off a cold day with a smile – savory, salty, and spicy.
Whether you serve this for a quick weeknight dinner, or as a game day meal, you’ll love it.
Instant Pot does it all. Well, almost. There’s only 15 minutes of prep time, and then you can set it and forget it until eating time.
Incredibly hearty. Another benefit of using an Instant Pot is that the flavors are incredibly well-developed. It’s the kind of belly filler that will leave your whole body feeling satisfied.
Endless variations. You can play around with the spice levels, make it creamier with more cream cheese, or even add your favorite herbs.
Ingredient Notes
Onion, Carrots, and Celery – This is the foundation of the soup. They add color, texture, and a touch of earthy sweetness to the soup.
Chicken – I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for maximum flavor and richness.
Chicken Broth – Make your own instant pot chicken broth for the best flavor, but store bought works just fine. I suggest ch oosing a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness of the soup to your taste.
Spices- Garlic Powder, Dried Thyme, and Red Chili Flakes
Half and half – or for a richer soup use heavy whipping cream.
Red Hot Sauce– Franks Buffalo Sauce is the perfect addition here.
Flour – All-purpose flour thickens the soup and makes it smooth.
Cream Cheese – full fat cream cheese for best flavor and texture.
Sour cream, green onions, blue cheese dressing, or crumbled blue cheese are great toppings too.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Soup
Saute. Use the saute function and cook the vegetables and chicken.
Seal and cook. Add broth and deglaze the pot.
Add the dry spices, half and half, and buffalo sauce. Close the lid and make sure the valve is in sealing mode. Select high pressure (manual) and set the cooking time to 10 minutes.
Natural release. When cooking ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Then turn the valve to “VENTING” and release the remaining pressure.
Finish it off and serve. Select saute and add the remaining ingredients. Cook until bubbly and thickened. Turn off the Instant Pot and serve the soup with crusty bread.
Tips and Tricks
Pick the right cut of chicken. Boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Use breast fillets to make a leaner soup or thigh fillets to make a richer soup.
Add more heat. Sprinkle extra chili flakes while sauteing the vegetables, or add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the soup before serving.
Be generous while garnishing. Generously top your soup with sour cream, green onions, and extra buffalo sauce. This will impact both the flavor and texture of the dish.
Adjust its consistency when reheating. This soup tends to thicken once it cools down. So add broth or water to thin the soup to your desired consistency before reheating.
No Instant Pot? No problem. Make it on the stove top instead. After sauteeing vegetables and chicken, add remaining ingredients (except cream cheese). Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add cream cheese and heat until warm and melted.
Buffalo Chicken Soup is warm, cozy, and packed with flavor. Serve it up with crusty bread for a satisfying finish to a chilly day. Using an Instant Pot makes prep virtually effortless.
3boneless skinless chicken breastscut into bite-size cubes (about 1.5 pounds)
6cupschicken broth + 3 tablespoonsdivided
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoondried thyme
1teaspooncrushed red pepper chili flakes
1cuphalf and half
½cuphot buffalo sauce
3Tablespoonsall-purpose flour
8ouncecream cheese
4Tablespoonsranch dressing
Instructions
Turn the Instant Pot on saute. Allow to heat up a minute, then add butter to melt.
Once melted, add onion, celery, and carrots. Using a wooden spoon, cook until softened (a couple minutes). Add chicken and cook for 2 minutes. Add 6 cups broth and using the wooden spoon, scrape up the bits of chicken and vegetables from the bottom of the Instant Pot (this is called deglazing and will help prevent the burn notice. Turn off saute.
Add garlic powder, thyme, and crushed red pepper. Mix with chicken and vegetables.
To the pot, add half and half and buffalo sauce. Do not mix. Secure the lid and turn the valve to SEALING. Select high pressure (manual) and add 10 minutes to the cook time.
While this is cooking, combine the remaining 3 Tablespoons of broth with flour. Whisk until combined, set aside.
When the cook time ends, allow Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then turn the valve to "VENTING" and release the remaining pressure.
Remove the lid and select SAUTE. Add in flour and broth mixture as well as the cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook until bubbly and thickened to desired thickness (and the cream cheese has melted completely.
Turn off Instant pot and serve soup with crusty bread. ENJOY.
Notes
Pick the right cut of chicken. Boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Use breast fillets to make a leaner soup or thigh fillets to make a richer soup.
Add more heat. Sprinkle extra chili flakes while sauteing the vegetables, or add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the soup before serving.
Be generous while garnishing. Generously top your soup with sour cream, green onions, and extra buffalo sauce. This will impact both the flavor and texture of the dish.
Adjust its consistency when reheating. This soup tends to thicken once it cools down. So add broth or water to thin the soup to your desired consistency before reheating.
No Instant Pot? No problem. Make it on the stove top instead. After sauteeing vegetables and chicken, add remaining ingredients (except cream cheese). Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add cream cheese and heat until warm and melted.
This roasted red pepper and tomato soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of the end of the summer heat. It’s the option in between gazpacho and creamy tomato soup. As the temperature finally calms down, I implore you to make this soup with the last ripe bell peppers and tomatoes.
This lovely, light soup is slightly spicy. It tastes more strongly of roasted red peppers than tomatoes, and the light smokiness brings Spanish cuisine to mind. It’s vegan as written, though you certainly add cream for a creamier soup. Perhaps the best thing about this soup is that it freezes well for later.
I originally shared this recipe over ten years ago on a rainy day with my dog, Cookie, by my side. It’s still one of my favorites, and revisiting it brings those moments back to life. I really miss my pup.
We’re growing both peppers and tomatoes in our backyard garden this year, though not enough to make a proper batch of this soup. Grace’s favorite thing to do is, “Pick some ’matoes,” and she checks for more cherry tomatoes at least twice a day. She pops them straight into her mouth and can’t get enough.