Home » Make the Kitchen Feel Useful Again With 33 Soups and Stews Worth Returning To

Make the Kitchen Feel Useful Again With 33 Soups and Stews Worth Returning To

Exploring a collection of 33 soups and stews can turn a regular kitchen into a place you actually want to be. Chilly days, busy weeks, and even simple evenings at home all pair well with a big pot simmering on the stove. Sometimes, it just takes a warm bowl to make everything feel a bit more relaxed. Recipes like these invite everyone to slow down for a minute.

A pot of Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa sits on a striped towel next to wooden spoons, bowls, fresh herbs, and salt and pepper shakers.
Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

A bowl of borscht with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill on top, served on a brown plate with a spoon on a marble surface.
Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup). Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Tangy and vibrant, this Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup) offers a fresh twist on comfort food. Bright color alone sets it apart from other soups on the menu. Every spoonful brings out surprising depth from simple ingredients, making it a conversation starter at the table. It feels both classic and a little unexpected for anyone craving something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Borscht (Beet Soup)

Beef Stroganoff Soup

A ladle holds beef chunks, mushrooms, and egg noodles over a pot of Beef Stroganoff Soup.
Beef Stroganoff Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Taking a classic dish and turning it into a soup is what makes this Beef Stroganoff Soup so appealing. Nostalgia and big flavor team up in each bowl. Each bowl offers rich flavor and hearty goodness that everyone expects from stroganoff. Busy cooks love it for its combination of quick prep and stick-to-your-ribs comfort. It’s a clever way to enjoy favorite flavors without extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stroganoff Soup

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

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Over the Top Chili

Over the Top Chili in a black cast iron bowl.
Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Few dishes draw people together faster than this Over the Top Chili. There’s always excitement when a pot of chili bubbles away, tempting hungry guests. There’s always a buzz when it hits the table, especially on days when you want something bold and crowd-pleasing. The slow warmth is just right for football parties or a casual evening. One batch is rarely enough, since folks often come back to refill their bowls.
Get the Recipe: Over the Top Chili

Cabbage and White Bean Soup

Close-up of a ladle holding Cabbage and White Bean Soup, above a pot filled with the same soup.
Cabbage and White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Sometimes, you just want something simple that delivers comfort without fuss. Nutritious ingredients blend in every bite of this Cabbage and White Bean Soup, giving it wide appeal. The way the flavors meld together creates a bowl that feels wholesome and filling. Even non-cabbage fans might be surprised at how quickly this one disappears.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and White Bean Soup

Tom Kha Soup

A bowl of Tom Kha Soup with green herbs, and a slice of lime.
Tom Kha Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A bowl of this Tom Kha Soup brightens any meal with its unique blend of flavors. Creamy coconut and hints of citrus make it different from classic chicken soups. Notes of creaminess and citrus in the broth create a special kind of balance. Many find themselves going back for more, trying to pinpoint what makes it so memorable. It’s the kind of soup that becomes a go-to pick on chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Soup

Cream of Mushroom Soup

A white bowl of soup with mushrooms and chives.
Cream of Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

There’s a reason this Cream of Mushroom Soup keeps popping up on comfort food lists. Each spoonful brings a silky, rich texture. Earthy mushroom flavor and smooth texture create a warmth that lingers long after the last spoonful. Restaurants might try, but homemade always tastes better. Anyone in the mood for something creamy and filling won’t want to miss this pick.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Mushroom Soup

Easy Hamburger Stew

A white bowl filled with easy Hamburger stew garnished with parsley.
Easy Hamburger Stew. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

On busy nights, this Easy Hamburger Stew comes through with simple prep and reliable results. Familiar taste keeps everyone at the table happy. Hearty vegetables and ground meat make every bowl feel like a full meal. Kids and adults alike look forward to the comfort it brings. For anyone craving familiar, no-fuss food, this stew never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Easy Hamburger Stew

Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl with spoon on a round brown plate.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

For anyone who likes to eat the bowl afterward, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl delivers. Hot, melty cheese meets soft sourdough for the best of both worlds. The cheesy, creamy soup fits just right in a crusty bread bowl, making it nearly impossible to leave leftovers. People tend to go back for another bread chunk as soon as the soup runs low. It’s a fun way to bring a little restaurant feeling home.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

A bowl of Red Pepper and Tomato Soup with a spoon and bread on a plate on the side.
Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Bright and inviting, this Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup feels like a pick-me-up on a gray day. Sometimes all you need is a bowl to warm your hands and soul. Blending peppers and tomatoes brings out a flavor that’s both sweet and smooth. Toasted bread or a grilled cheese are natural partners for this soup. Whenever you want something a little lighter, it’s a reliable option.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican street style corn soup in a white bowl on a white plate.
Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet corn gets a new life in this Mexican Street Corn Soup with bold flavors and a creamy finish. The mix makes for a fun way to shake up soup night. Each bowl brings warmth and just the right bit of tang. It’s easy to see why people often ask for the recipe after first tasting it. Even picky eaters find something to love about this one.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta lovers will be happy to see this Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken on the menu. Cheesy tortellini gives classic chicken soup a hearty boost. Cheese-filled tortellini and a rich broth make this soup perfect for bigger appetites. Colorful greens add both nutrition and pop to the bowl. No matter who you serve, this recipe always feels just a little bit special.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Old-school comfort comes together in this Pasta e Fagioli Soup with beans and pasta in every spoonful. Cold nights call out for a bowl of something rich and filling, and this soup delivers. It brings a little bit of Italian style to any kitchen. Most agree there’s something extra homey about the way it fills you up. Cold evenings pair particularly well with a bowl of this favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

A white bowl of creamy shrimp & corn chowder on a white plate.
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Anyone looking for a creamy soup with a gentle kick will enjoy this Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle. Flavorful sausage and sweet shrimp create a dish with lots of character. A touch of chipotle gives just the right amount of smoky flair. Sweet shrimp make it feel like something straight from a seaside diner. Even seafood skeptics are usually curious to try a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a lighter, fresher twist on a classic, this Chicken Zoodle Soup comes through every time. Swapping traditional noodles for zucchini keeps things easy and fresh. Swapping out noodles for zucchini lets you enjoy seconds without feeling too full. The flavors are just as comforting as the soup you grew up with. It’s easy to see why this bowl gets popular fast, especially with anyone skipping pasta.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Nonna’s Pastina Soup

A bowl of Nonna’s Pastina Soup topped with shredded cheese and herbs, next to two silver spoons on a marble surface with a floral cloth in the background.
Nonna’s Pastina Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Memories of home-cooked meals come rushing back with this Nonna’s Pastina Soup. There’s something soothing about the tiny pasta stars in broth. Tiny pasta stars float in a gentle broth that’s easy to love on any occasion. For kids and grown-ups, nothing beats a warm bowl when the day feels long. Many have called it their comfort food for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Nonna’s Pastina Soup

Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven

A white bowl of Texas cowboy stew.
Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Stew season gets an upgrade from this Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven, thanks to bold flavors and generous portions. Plenty of meat and vegetables pack every bite. Cooking it slowly brings all the flavors together beautifully. Each serving makes people feel like they’re out on the range, even in a city kitchen. Topped with a crusty roll, it’s a no-nonsense choice for hungry groups.
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven

Cullen Skink

Cullen Skink in two bowls with crusty bread in the background.
Cullen Skink. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Scottish kitchens know a thing or two about comfort, and this Cullen Skink proves it. Smoky fish gives an old recipe new popularity. Smoky fish and potatoes join forces to create a soup that stands out from the usual choices. Many are surprised by how filling and rich each bite feels without being heavy. Newcomers often return for another bowl the next day.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink

Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Marry Me chicken soup on a wooden table.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

All the flavors you crave in the classic dish turn up in this Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Herby, creamy broth feels like a hug in a bowl. Creamy, herby, and packed with chicken, each serving feels a little luxurious without much work. It stands out as a hit at potlucks or weeknight dinners. When people ask what the secret is, sometimes it’s fun to let them guess.
Get the Recipe: Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

A bowl of old-fashioned beef stew garnished with fresh parsley.
Old-Fashioned Beef Stew. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Hearty and classic, this Old-Fashioned Beef Stew brings warmth to even the coldest days. Chunks of beef and carrots make it feel like a meal and not just soup. Each serving comes with chunks of tender beef, thick broth, and a mix of vegetables. It’s easy to see why so many consider it the ultimate comfort food. There’s always a pot simmering somewhere as soon as the temperature drops.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup in a white round bowl with small handles.
Zuppa Toscana Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Rich broth, potatoes, and hearty greens make this Zuppa Toscana Soup a reliable comfort meal. Garlic aroma fills the kitchen while it simmers. The flavor profile closely matches the classic restaurant favorite without being fancy or fussy. Most kitchens find an excuse to make this at least once each cold season. Those who try it tend to keep it on repeat all year.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup

Spiced Red Lentil Soup

A spoon lifts a spoonful of red lentil soup from a white bowl.
Spiced Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Looking for something filling that doesn’t weigh you down? This Spiced Red Lentil Soup fits the bill thanks to its mild, warming spices. Protein-rich lentils pack a punch without feeling heavy. Lentils create a creamy consistency that feels like more than just a simple soup. Friends who try it are usually surprised by how much they like a plant-based option.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Red Lentil Soup

Potato Leek Soup

Two bowls of Potato leek soup with two spoons beside.
Potato Leek Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

When cooler months hit, this Potato Leek Soup offers creamy comfort in every bowl. Its mild flavor and silky texture are always welcome. The mix of tender potatoes and subtle leeks delivers both heartiness and a velvety base. Pairing it with warm bread is a move that never disappoints. Even picky eaters ask for more once they try a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Potato Leek Soup

Beefy Lasagna Soup

A bowl of beefy lasagna soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese, garnished with basil.
Beefy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Lasagna fans don’t need a casserole dish to enjoy the flavor in this Beefy Lasagna Soup. Beef, pasta, and cheese share the spotlight in every bite. Tomato, spices, and beef swirl together for a meal that tastes just as nostalgic as the classic. It’s a clever way to bring family-favorite flavors to the table in a fraction of the time. Often, the pot empties out long before dinner officially ends.
Get the Recipe: Beefy Lasagna Soup

Cream Of Onion Soup

Two bowls of cream of onion soup topped with crispy onions and chives on a wooden table.
Cream Of Onion Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Subtle, sweet onions shine in this Cream Of Onion Soup. Smooth texture makes the bowl extra comforting. Creamy, smooth, and homey, the dish feels like a restaurant classic but can be enjoyed at home. Anyone skeptical about onion soup often changes their mind after the first taste. Sprinkle a little bit of cheese on top for something extra special.
Get the Recipe: Cream Of Onion Soup

Italian Wedding Soup

A white bowl of Italian Wedding Soup.
Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Small meatballs and vibrant greens shine in this Italian Wedding Soup. The combination of pasta and greens gives a light but filling meal. Every spoonful brings a touch of celebration, even on an ordinary weeknight. The broth fills you up without being too heavy. Guests tend to ask for seconds whenever this soup appears on the table.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup

Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Soup

A bowl of Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup with a spoon resting inside.
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Pulling together leftovers is easier than ever with this Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Soup. Classic chicken soup never goes out of style, especially in a pinch. Fresh vegetables, hearty noodles, and shredded chicken combine for an unbeatable favorite. Kids and adults alike appreciate the familiar comfort every bowl brings. Sometimes, the aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Soup

Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder with a sprig of dill, a delicious stew recipe.
Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Coastal vibes come through in every bite of this Seafood Chowder. Generous chunks of seafood fill the bowl with bold flavor. A mix of seafood in a creamy broth keeps it smooth but not too heavy. Sharing this soup at a gathering always leads to people asking what makes it so good. There’s no need to travel far for chowder that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup

A spoonful of Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable soup from a white bowl.
Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Home cooks can recreate a restaurant favorite with this Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup. Packed with vegetables and hearty broth, it’s a win for anyone who likes a lighter meal. Hearty vegetables in a veggie-forward broth fill you up and leave you feeling good. Repeat requests happen often for this plant-based soup. The variety of veggies adds both flavor and fun in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup

Slow-Cooker Taco Soup

Two bowls of Slow-Cooker Taco Soup next to sliced lime.
Slow-Cooker Taco Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Plug in the slow cooker and let this Slow-Cooker Taco Soup do all the work. Spices and toppings make each bite unique and fun. Taco seasoning and toppings turn a simple soup into something unexpected and fun. Families who love taco night will want this in their rotation. After a long day, it’s great walking into a house that smells like dinner is ready.
Get the Recipe: Slow-Cooker Taco Soup

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bold spices and tender meat keep this Authentic Hungarian Goulash high on many “must-try” lists. Each serving offers just the right kind of comfort for a chilly night. Comforting, thick broth warms you up without being too heavy or complicated. Anyone in the mood for old-world flavors gets hooked after the first bite. The leftovers usually taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Two bowls of soup with ham, sausage, split peas and vegetables in them.
Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, rich, and thick, this Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup wins over those who think they don’t like peas. Sausage and lean ham bring something special to the pot. Ham and sausage bring a lot of flavor to the table, making it perfect for chilly evenings. There’s something about pairing it with warm bread that just works. Leftovers have a way of disappearing overnight.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

French classics never go out of style, and this Beef Bourguignon proves it. Big flavors show off what slow cooking can do. Tender chunks of beef and a deep sauce come together in each bowl. The aroma alone draws people into the kitchen long before it’s finally served. Making this stew once usually gets it added to the regular meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

A pot of Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa sits on a striped towel next to wooden spoons, bowls, fresh herbs, and salt and pepper shakers.
Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Unique flavor and hearty ingredients make this Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa unforgettable. Tangy sauerkraut plays off the rich meatiness of kielbasa. A little bit tangy and a whole lot filling, the combination stands out in any soup collection. People who enjoy sauerkraut usually appreciate the twist this soup brings. Cold nights are a great time to stir up a big batch.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Sauerkraut Soup with Kielbasa

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