13 Quick And Easy Homemade Soup Recipes For Busy Weeknights

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of homemade soup after a long, busy day. But when you’re short on time, spending hours in the kitchen isn’t an option. That’s where these 13 quick and easy homemade soup recipes come in. Each one is designed to be simple, delicious, and ready in no time, so you can enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle. From hearty classics to light and flavorful bowls, there’s a recipe here to match your mood and cravings.

Whether you’re looking for a quick fix after work or a cozy dish for the weekend, these recipes make dinnertime stress-free. The best part? They’re made with simple, fresh ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Get ready to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and your bowls with flavorful goodness — all without spending hours at the stove.

Spicy Black Bean Soup

Spicy black bean soup is a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with protein. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and comforting. The vibrant colors of the soup, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when time is tight. The combination of spices gives it a nice kick, while the black beans provide a rich, creamy texture.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in cumin and chili powder, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or leave it chunky if you prefer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup is a hearty dish that warms you up on busy weeknights. This soup combines tender chunks of beef with nutritious barley and colorful vegetables. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something filling and comforting.

The ingredients come together easily, making this soup a go-to for any home cook. The rich flavors of the beef blend beautifully with the earthy barley, while the veggies add a nice crunch. You can even make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day!

Here’s how to whip up this delicious soup:

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Mix in the garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Barley: Pour in the beef broth and water. Add the barley and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. The vibrant red color of the soup, combined with the fresh basil leaves, makes it visually appealing and inviting.

Making this soup is simple and requires just a few ingredients. The rich flavor comes from ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Here’s how to whip up this delicious soup in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
5. Return the soup to low heat, stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Heat through, but do not boil.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. This soup combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth.

The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its simplicity. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. The vibrant colors of carrots and celery add a nice touch, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Making this soup is a breeze. Start by sautéing your vegetables, then add chicken and broth. Let it simmer until everything is cooked through. Finally, toss in the noodles and let them cook until tender. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in shredded chicken, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Lentil Soup with Spinach

Lentil soup with spinach is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils and spinach creates a hearty meal that fills you up without weighing you down. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or veggies!

This soup is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later. It’s a fantastic option for those evenings when you want something healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious lentil soup!

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Hearty vegetable soup is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. It’s warm, filling, and packed with nutrients. This soup is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour!

The vibrant colors of the vegetables make this soup visually appealing. Each spoonful is a mix of flavors and textures, from tender carrots to crisp green beans. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete dinner. You can also customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 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 softened.
2. Add the garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Add the green beans, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant orange color makes it visually appealing, while the rich flavors make it a family favorite. This soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.

Making butternut squash soup is simple. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for those hectic evenings. The ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have most of them in your pantry. Plus, it’s a great way to use seasonal produce!

To make this soup, you’ll need butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and a few spices. You can blend it until smooth for a creamy texture or leave it a bit chunky if you prefer. Serve it with a swirl of cream and some toasted seeds on top for added crunch.

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. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until soft.
2. Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Stir in the heavy cream if using, and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds.

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with vegetables, making it a great choice for a quick meal. This soup is versatile, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup!

The vibrant colors of the vegetables in the soup make it visually appealing. The combination of pasta and beans adds a satisfying texture, while the broth is rich and comforting. It’s a dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Making minestrone is simple. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and your favorite herbs. Toss in some pasta and let it simmer until everything is cooked through. You can even add some beans for extra protein.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
4. Add the pasta and kidney beans. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pea and Mint Soup

Pea and mint soup is a refreshing choice for busy weeknights. It’s light, vibrant, and packed with flavor. The bright green color of the soup is inviting, making it a perfect dish to enjoy any time of the year. The combination of sweet peas and fresh mint creates a delightful balance that’s both comforting and invigorating.

This soup is not only quick to prepare but also requires minimal ingredients. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. Serve it warm or chilled, and don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of mint for that extra touch!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or frozen peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
2. Add the peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired. Blend again to combine.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a few mint leaves on top.

Vegetable Chowder

Vegetable chowder is a comforting dish that warms you up on busy weeknights. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal. You can whip this up in no time, and it’s great for using up any leftover veggies you have in the fridge.

This chowder is not just filling; it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. The creamy base, combined with fresh herbs, adds a delightful flavor that everyone will enjoy.

Here’s how to make your own delicious vegetable chowder:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
2. Add the diced potatoes and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the corn and green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the milk or cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and heat through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Quick Corn Soup

Quick Corn Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any busy weeknight. This soup is creamy, sweet, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal. With fresh corn as the star ingredient, it’s not only delicious but also colorful and inviting.

Making this soup is a breeze. You can whip it up in no time, and it requires just a few simple ingredients. The combination of corn, broth, and spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover corn you might have.

Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Add corn kernels and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of it.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through but do not boil.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Creamy Potato Leek Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This soup is rich, smooth, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. The combination of potatoes and leeks creates a delightful base that warms you up from the inside out.

Making this soup is simple and quick. You’ll start by sautéing the leeks until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, add diced potatoes and broth, letting everything simmer until the potatoes are tender. A splash of cream at the end gives it that creamy texture we all love.

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping. You can also top it with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. It’s a great way to use up pantry staples while still enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 4 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leeks. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy with your favorite bread!

Thai Coconut Curry Soup

Thai Coconut Curry Soup is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. This soup is creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of coconut milk, curry paste, and fresh ingredients makes it a standout meal.

To make this soup, you’ll want to gather some key ingredients. Shrimp adds protein, while vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms provide crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro and a squeeze of lime elevate the flavors, making each spoonful refreshing.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable. Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer. The cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 4 cups coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the shrimp, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

With these 13 quick and easy homemade soup recipes, you can enjoy the comfort of a freshly made meal even on your busiest nights. Each one delivers big flavor with minimal effort, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.

From rich and creamy soups to fresh and vibrant broths, you’ll never run out of ideas for a satisfying bowl. Keep this list handy for those evenings when you want something warm, nourishing, and ready in a flash.

So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a weeknight dinner that’s as quick as it is comforting — no takeout menu required.