I love soups of all kinds, and a warm, cozy bowl of soup for lunch or dinner never disappoints. In colder months, I bet I make at least one different soup each week, and sometimes more! This collection of the best soup recipes (plus stews and chili recipes I love) provides a simple and quick way to glance through all of the delicious options and decide which one I’ll make next.
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Easy Ham And Bean Soup
I have a clear memory of falling in love with ham and bean soup as a young kid. It was often served at my church during Wednesday night Lenten soup suppers, and I always looked forward to it. I remember being a little surprised that a bean and vegetable-based soup could taste so good. Nowadays, I make this comfort food soup whenever I have leftover ham from Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas dinner.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Instant Pot Bone Broth
Bone broth has become a staple in my house, appearing in soups and stews on a weekly basis. It’s incredibly versatile, great for breaking cravings, and a go-to home remedy of mine for colds and stomach bugs when I drink a warm mug of it. This protein-rich broth is easy to make in an Instant Pot from leftover veggie scraps and chicken bones from when I make a whole chicken.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Paleo | Whole30
Easy Instant Pot Vegetable Beef Soup
This beef and vegetable soup is the ultimate cozy-comfy, super satisfying meal when I’m short on time but want that slow-simmered taste of a soup that’s been cooking for hours. Filled with veggies and tender beef, it’s easy on my budget and always a family favorite when I serve bowls with these easy cheddar drop biscuits.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Whole30
Easy Taco Soup Recipe (Instant Pot, Stovetop or Crockpot)
This taco soup is a lot like chicken tortilla soup or pozole that I consider to be a versatile base recipe I can make with ground beef, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken. I appreciate that it’s veggie loaded and contains black beans for a big amount of fiber (10 grams per bowl) plus plenty of protein.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Harvest Italian Soup with Sausage
When the air turns chilly I make big pots of this soul-warming soup. It’s packed with flavors from garlic, herbs and spices, flavorful broth, Italian sausage, and long-storing vegetables. I’ve affectionately termed this “harvest” soup as a nod to the easy-to-find, everyday vegetables it features: potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, kale, and onions.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Paleo | Whole30
Crockpot Hamburger Soup
When I want to make a cozy meal for a sick friend, a homesick college student, or a new mother, this is always the recipe I turn to. It’s made with tender ground beef, flavorful veggies, and just-right seasonings for a hearty, healthy meal that tastes so good. It’s great for easy make-ahead and as a freezer-to-slow cooker recipe.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
In this simple recipe, two of my favorite comfort foods (tomato soup and lasagna) converge to create a warm and cozy recipe that’s easy to make and has big lasagna flavors. This lasagna soup brings together Italian seasoning, soft lasagna noodle pieces, and ground beef in a mix of tomato basil marinara sauce topped with dollops of ricotta and sprinkles of Parmesan.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
I grew up on frozen chicken pot pies, so this soup feels like home to me. It features all the rich, savory flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for weeknights. The thick soup replicates the taste and texture of pot pie filling. And the flaky biscuits that sit on top replace traditional pie crust.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Creamy Potato Leek Soup With Bacon
This savory mix of pureed potatoes, leeks, celery, bacon, herbs, and broth creates an irresistible bowl of whole-food goodness. My blender technique gives this soup a creamy, silky texture without having to use heavy cream or a potato masher. Cook it on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Slow Cooker Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Every year, my aunt and uncle from Minnesota gift me a bag of wild rice harvested from their state. And I use it to make this creamy chicken wild rice soup. With no sautéing needed, this recipe is one of my go-to options and favorite soup recipes for busy days. All I have to do is combine the ingredients in the morning and come back to a warm dinner that’s ready to eat in the evening.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
The Best Cauliflower Soup Recipe
Similar in flavor, creaminess, and texture to a potato soup, this cauliflower soup is lower in carbohydrates but full of flavor. Loaded with typical baked potato toppings and flavors (like bacon and cheddar), I love to serve this soup when the snow starts to fall.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free
Chicken Dumpling Soup
My mother-in-law makes the best dumpling soup, so I consulted her as I was creating this comfort food recipe. She shared her technique for making the best chewy dumplings that make every bite of this creamy chicken soup special and delicious. I added simple frozen veggies and everyday seasonings to keep things simple for soup season.
Egg Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
One of my favorite things about this corn chowder is that it can be made with fresh or frozen corn kernels. In the fall, I cut fresh kernels off corn-on-the-cob, but at other times of the year, I use the frozen option. Either way, it’s creamy and delicious every time.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana
As a teenager, Olive Garden was about as fancy as it got. I felt so special going there on early dates with my then boyfriend (who is now my husband), and this soup takes me right back. Even better than the restaurant version, this Zuppa Toscana is filled to the brim with Italian turkey sausage, fresh veggies, a creamy broth, and those classic Italian flavors I love. I serve it with squeezes of fresh lemon juice and some sourdough bread on the side.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Nut Free
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon
If broccoli cheddar soup is a favorite, this cheeseburger soup is a must-try. WIth a cheesy flavorful base, it features ground beef, small potato pieces, sautéed veggies, and bacon. It has so much umami flavor that it’s just as satisfying as eating a juicy cheeseburger. I top serving with pickles, cheddar, more crumbled bacon, and even a drizzle of mustard.
Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Minestrone Soup
Always a favorite soup of mine, minestrone is a great example of how beans, veggies, and vegetable broth can be so satisfying and provide tons of great nutrition and flavor at the same time. In this veggie and noodle soup recipe, I call for red kidney beans and so many wonderful veggies: mushrooms, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, plus – of course – tender cooked pasta.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Vegan | Vegetarian
Stovetop Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Made almost entirely with pantry staples, this tomato soup is easy for home cooks to prepare and delicious on its own or alongside a grilled cheese, which is how I always serve it. When my kids come inside from playing outside in the snow, I love to warm them up with this cozy and favorite soup and sandwich combo. It’s divine with a drizzle of nice olive oil on top.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Paleo | Vegan | Vegetarian
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Made from a base of pureed potatoes and other veggies, this soup achieves that perfect creamy texture with no cream or dairy added. I use an immersion blender in the pot to get the texture just right before stirring in the salty ham and kale at the end.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Paleo | Whole30
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
This slow cooker white chicken chili has been one of my family’s favorite chili recipes for years – and also one of the most popular recipes on this entire website. My kids love the warm spices and tender chicken, and I love how easily all the ingredients come together and that it’s so creamy and good while still being dairy free.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Healthy Turkey Chili Recipe
When the weather turns cold, warming up with a bowl of veggie-loaded turkey chili is about as good as it gets for me! This healthy turkey chili recipe is one of my favorite fall soups. It’s simple to make and easy to tweak to dietary and taste preferences. It’s just as good in a bowl as it is spooned over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili
This sweet potato chili is just the thing to freshen things up and get everyone excited to dig into a bowl of chili. From the hearty veggies to the perfect spices and tender ground beef, I know you’ll love this slow cooker chili even before it gets the delicious toppings. My favorites are fresh cilantro, squeezes of lime juice, jalapeno slices, and diced avocado.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Hearty Slow Cooker Vegan Chili with Lentils
If the thought of tucking into a big bowl of vegan chili has never come to mind before, allow me to change your mind. Big bowls of hearty, satisfying vegan chili with lentils topped with creamy avocado, herby cilantro, and bright notes of lime juice are a must-have for warding off a chill and satisfying hunger at the same time. Fiber-rich lentils stand in for the usual ground beef, while carrots and bell peppers add texture, flavor, and nutrition.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Vegan | Vegetarian
Chipotle Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
I provide directions for three different cooking methods for this favorite high-protein chili. Choose the crockpot directions for that slow-simmered flavor, choose the efficiency of an Instant Pot if in a hurry, or let it simmer on the stovetop to enjoy the cozy smells of this favorite chili in your home as it cooks.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Chili
When I want an iconic “everyone-loves-it” chili to serve for game days or potlucks, this is the recipe I pull out. Made with three different kinds of canned beans, plus canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth, there is very little hands-on chopping required for this simple recipe. I let guests serve themselves right from the crockpot and I set out a variety of toppings so everyone can craft their own perfect bowl.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
I think slow cooker recipes are a perfect addition to a weekly meal prep, and this hearty beef stew is a great one to make ahead and enjoy later. Made with a trio of root vegetables, this stew recipe is one I make and then tuck away in the fridge for an easy weeknight meal (or freeze individual servings in my favorite souper cubes) to easily reheat for nutritious, high protein lunches all week long.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Lamb Curry Recipe
This lamb curry recipe is an easy twist on traditional Indian mutton curry that can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. It’s a flavorful, protein-rich, veggie-filled comfort food meal that requires minimal prep time and has a total time of less than an hour. I serve it in bowls, but it’s also great over cooked rice.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Moroccan Beef and Lentil Stew
Most lentil soups are vegetarian, but I love that this version includes big chunks of beef stew meat for bowls that are ultra delicious plus high in protein and fiber, too. With minimal prep time, simple spices (like paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and ground ginger) this is a hands-off meal that cooks low and slow for a total time of just over 7 hours. I start it in the morning to achieve that fall-apart tender meat consistency right before dinnertime.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free
Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde Stew
Living in Colorado, I love a green chile recipe. They’re on nearly every menu in this state, it seems. But it wasn’t until I tasted this chicken chile verde that I really fell in love with green chile. This one has the perfect limey acidic flavor that’s perfectly paired with tender shredded chicken, veggies, and potatoes. I enjoy it with warmed flour tortillas for dipping plus toppings of diced avocado and fresh cilantro.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten-free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut-free | Paleo | Whole30
Slow Cooker Green Chile Stew with Beans
When I want my family to enjoy more nutritious beans, this recipe always comes to mind. It’s such a flavorful and delicious way to enjoy white bean soup in a recipe that couldn’t be easier to make. This vegetarian green chile is so hearty, chunky, and flavorful. Since it stores well for several days and is easy to reheat, this stew is a great meal prep recipe to make once and stretch across many meals all week long.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | Nut Free | Vegan | Vegetarian
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chicken Curry
This saucy chicken curry is so delicious enjoyed in bowls or spooned over top of rice. I make it in the slow cooker from chicken breast, chopped sweet potato, red pepper, aromatics, coconut milk, and some everyday pantry seasonings, including curry powder and ground cumin. It’s so creamy and a slow cooker dinner I look forward to eating whenever it’s on the menu.
Dairy Free | Egg Free | Gluten Free | Grain Free | High Protein | Nut Free | Paleo | Whole30
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several ways to thicken soup. A common way is to add a thickener, such as a tablespoon or two of cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or flour mixed with water (called a slurry) and then added to the soup near the end of the cooking time. Once the soup boils, the thickener starts to kick in.
Another way to thicken soup is to puree some or all of the soup. This technique works well for soups that have starchy ingredients, such as beans or potatoes. The soup (or a portion of it) can be pureed using an immersion blender right in the pot or crockpot, or by transferring it to a blender.
And another way to thicken soup is to use less liquid (for a thick, chunky soup) or to let a lot of the liquid simmer down and evaporate over the cooking time.
Achieve creamy, non-dairy soups by using coconut milk in place of cream, or by pureeing some of the ingredients. This works well with potato soup, cauliflower soups, and soups with beans.
You can “fancy up” almost any soup with some pretty garnishes. But some less rustic and more luxurious soups are typically pureed smooth soups. Think of options such as butternut squash soup, pumpkin soup, split pea soup, or cream of mushroom soup. Also, brothy soups with high-end proteins and ingredients, such as seafood bisque, roasted garlic soup, pho, miso soup, clam chowder, cioppino, tortellini soup, and pasta e fagioli would qualify. Also, consider French onion soup and some versions of ramen to be fancy, luxury soups.
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I thought you can’t eat corn or qunoia on the whole 30 but these recipes have them. I am so confused now.
Hi Sara,
You are correct that corn and quinoa are not allowed on the Whole30. All recipes in this roundup are Whole30-compliant as written by their respective authors OR have substitutions noted to make them Whole30.