Home » 33 Soups & Stews for When You’re Down to Scraps but Still Crave a Feast

33 Soups & Stews for When You’re Down to Scraps but Still Crave a Feast

Running low on groceries but still craving something warm and filling? These 33 scrap-friendly soups and stews take whatever’s left and turn it into something worth enjoying. Broths, thick stews, and slow-simmered wonders make it clear that a nearly bare kitchen isn’t the end of the world. Sometimes, the best meals come from just making do—especially when making do tastes this good.

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

Steak and Potato Soup

A pot of Steak and Potato Soup garnished with sliced green onions.
Steak and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

When you’ve got some leftover steak and potatoes lying around, and you’re wondering what magic you can create, think no further. Steak and Potato Soup might just be your answer. It combines heartiness with simplicity, giving those scraps a second chance to impress. No need for fancy ingredients, just a good old pot, and you’re all set to whip up a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Potato Soup

Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

A bowl of caramelized onion & mushroom soup garnished with crispy bits and herbs on top.
Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Combining the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the earthy tones of mushrooms, this soup is a standout dish that makes the most of your kitchen scraps. Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup offers a taste that is deep and fulfilling, perfect for those who love a touch of sweetness with hearty undertones. It’s an excellent choice for an easy yet deeply flavorful meal. Plus, it’s ideal for winding down on a cool evening with something warm and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

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Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes (Instant Pot)

A bowl of creamy tortellini soup is topped with grated cheese and herbs, accompanied by a floral napkin and two spoons on the side.
Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes (Instant Pot). Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Let’s talk quick meals with minimal ingredients that still pack a punch. Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes is your go-to for using what you’ve got, especially with an Instant Pot making it a breeze. This dish brings together simple elements in a unique way, proving you don’t need a stocked pantry to create a warming, flavorful meal. It’s all about turning those last few ingredients into something special.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes (Instant Pot)

Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

Two black pots of Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili topped with shredded cheese.
Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If you’re craving something spicy and loaded with flavor but want to keep things simple, throw your ingredients into a slow cooker and let them work their magic. Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili makes use of whatever beans and proteins you have, simmering them to perfection. It’s a fuss-free method to a feast, promising a delicious outcome with minimal involvement. Ah, the joys of set-it-and-forget-it cooking!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

A bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup.
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Who doesn’t love a good restaurant remake that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home? Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup brings the beloved dining experience to your table. With bits and pieces from your pantry, you can recreate this favorite, proving that a scrumptious meal doesn’t require dining out. Plus, it’s fun to see how close you can get to the real deal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

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

When it’s time to clear out the fridge but you’re still aiming for something nourishing, Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup comes to the rescue. It transforms those almost-past-their-prime veggies into a silky-smooth concoction. This recipe is all about making the most with what you have, blending simplicity with flavor. And the best part? It pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Panera Bread’s Street Corn Soup

A bowl of Panera Bread’s Street Corn Soup with herbs and spices on top.
Panera Bread’s Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Bring the flavors of the street food festival into your home with Panera Bread’s Street Corn Soup. It’s inspired by the popular treat but turned into a comforting soup that screams creativity and taste. This dish is perfect for when you’re trying to impress or simply treat yourself to something different. It’s a creative twist that uses common ingredients to produce something spectacular.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread’s Street Corn Soup

Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash & sweet potato soup garnished with herbs on a wooden table.
Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting soup but want something a bit different, Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is your go-to. It’s a brilliant way to use up those lingering sweet potatoes and squash, marrying them into a velvety smooth delight. It’s about turning simple ingredients into a rich, flavor-packed soup that warms you from the inside out. This dish is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Two bowls of oven-roasted tomato soup with cream swirls.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Got some tomatoes about to go bad? Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is a fantastic way to ensure they don’t go to waste by roasting them to deepen their flavor. This process takes a humble soup to new heights, making it a testament to the power of roasting. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields a soup with a depth of flavor that can only be achieved through the roasting of fresh tomatoes.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Two bowls of Dutch oven beef stew garnished with parsley.
Dutch Oven Beef Stew. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

There’s something utterly comforting about a Dutch Oven Beef Stew. It takes leftovers to a new level, simmering slowly to create rich flavors and tender textures. It feeds the soul and the stomach, making it a staple for anyone looking for hearty, comforting meals. Plus, it’s perfect for larger gatherings where a big pot of stew can satisfy everyone.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of French onion soup topped with melted cheese served on a slate board with slices of crusty bread.
Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Feeling fancy but only have onions and a few pantry staples? Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup is here to save the day. It takes the humble onion and transforms it into a rich, deeply flavorful broth. Topped with just the right amount of cheese, this soup manages to be both simple and indulgent, a true testament to the magic of everyday ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion 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.

There’s nothing quite like Old-Fashioned Beef Stew to make you feel like you’re eating a meal that’s been passed down through generations. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense recipe that makes use of basic ingredients to create something truly comforting. The process of slowly simmering beef with vegetables results in a stew that’s both simple and deeply flavorful, a perfect example of traditional home cooking.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Texas Cowboy Stew

A pot filled with a Texas Cowboy stew is being stirred with a wooden spoon.
Texas Cowboy Stew. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If you’re after a dish that’s hearty, filling, and unapologetically bold, Texas Cowboy Stew will not disappoint. It’s a robust meal that throws together whatever meat and veggies you’ve got, cooking up a storm that’s fit for a cowboy. This stew doesn’t mess around; it’s all about big flavors and satisfying hunger with what’s on hand. Yee-haw to a bowl full of comfort and no-fuss preparation!
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew

Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Two bowls of Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup were placed on a marble surface next to two spoons.
Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ever find yourself craving that cozy, creamy potato soup from La Madeleine but don’t want to leave the house? Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup brings that comforting experience straight to your kitchen. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, requiring just a few basic ingredients to produce a soup that’s rich, creamy, and utterly soothing. This is your chance to bring a little bit of the bistro home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup

Cheesy Lasagna Soup

Bowl of lasagna soup and a dollop of cheese on top.
Cheesy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

For those days when you can’t decide between soup and pasta, Cheesy Lasagna Soup offers the perfect compromise. It’s a creative way to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and baking. This soup is a clever twist on a classic, proving that you can have your lasagna and slurp it too. It’s all the comfort of your favorite Italian dish served up in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Lasagna Soup

Potato Leek Soup

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

Let’s not forget about Potato Leek Soup, a staple when you’re in need of some creamy comfort without going overboard. It’s a shining example of how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something wonderfully soothing. This soup has a gentle flavor, making it a perfect light meal or starter. It shows that sometimes, simple really is best.
Get the Recipe: Potato Leek Soup

Chicken and Corn Chowder

A bowl of chicken and corn chowder sits on a tray.
Chicken and Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Craving something hearty yet easy enough to whip up on a weeknight? Chicken and Corn Chowder is where it’s at. This dish mixes the natural sweetness of corn with the richness of chicken to create a chowder that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a fantastic way to transform leftover chicken into a whole new meal, proving that soup can indeed be a showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Corn Chowder

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.

Looking for a way to impress with minimal effort? Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup might just be the ticket. It’s got all the elements to make someone think you’ve slaved away in the kitchen, when in reality, it’s simple to prepare. This dish combines tender chicken with a flavorful broth, making it a heartwarming meal that might just get you a marriage proposal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Bowl of sweet potato chili with quinoa topped with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro and sour cream.
Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If you’re aiming for something warming, nutritious, and a tad different, Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa offers a delicious twist on the classic chili. This version welcomes sweet potatoes and quinoa to the mix, creating a colorful, texture-rich dish. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their repertoire, showcasing how hearty and satisfying they can be. With this chili, you’re not just cooking; you’re embracing creativity.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Slow-Cooker Taco Soup

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

Got a slow-cooker and a craving for something Mexican-inspired? Slow-Cooker Taco Soup is your low-maintenance answer to a flavorful meal that practically makes itself. Just toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and walk away. By the time you’re back, you’ll be greeted by a soup that encapsulates all the zesty flavors of a taco in a comforting bowl, proving that great meals don’t require constant supervision.
Get the Recipe: Slow-Cooker Taco Soup

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Two bowls of Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone topped with a zigzag of cream.
Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Who said leftovers can’t lead to something amazing? This soup proves it by transforming what you have into a creamy, comforting bowl. With Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone, you’re in for a treat that feels gourmet without needing a trip to the store. It’s a brilliant way to use up those almost-gone ingredients and still serve up a dish that warms from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Two bowls of Cream of Jalapeno Soup with a plate of cornbread madeleines on a wooden table.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Ever thought about turning heat into something so warm and comforting? That’s what this recipe is all about. Cream of Jalapeno Soup takes what’s left in your kitchen and turns it into a meal that packs both flavor and a punch. It’s the kind of dish that shows how scraps can lead to something unexpectedly cozy and full of heat.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Carrot & Lentil Soup

A bowl of carrot and lentil soup topped with yogurt, cilantro, and almond slices.
Carrot & Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Sometimes, the simplest ingredients combine to create the most heartwarming dishes. Carrot & Lentil Soup is a testament to that, turning the humble leftovers into a nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. This dish is a reminder that you don’t need much to whip up a feast that comforts the soul and the stomach. It’s all about making the most of what you have.
Get the Recipe: Carrot & Lentil Soup

Old Fashioned Tomato Soup

Two bowls of old fashioned tomato soup with chopped herbs on top, placed on a white wooden surface.
Old Fashioned Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Nothing beats a classic, especially when it’s as easy and delicious as this. Old Fashioned Tomato Soup is your go-to when you want something timeless, using basic pantry staples to create a bowl of pure comfort. It’s proof that sometimes, going back to basics is exactly what you need to make a meal that feels like a feast. This dish is simplicity at its best, showcasing that the classics never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Tomato 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.

Have you ever thought about giving onions the spotlight in a dish? Well, Cream of Onion Soup does just that, turning them into the star of the show. This soup is all about showcasing flavors you might otherwise overlook, proving that even the most underappreciated ingredients can create something rich and warming. It’s a unique take on comfort food, one that’s sure to surprise and please.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup

Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale

A bowl of creamy Tuscan Soup with Sausage Kale topped with kale, sausage, pancetta, and drizzles of oil.
Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

If you’re craving something hearty, this soup has got you covered. Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale brings together bold flavors in a way that feels both rustic and deeply satisfying. It’s a dish that makes you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Italy, without ever leaving your home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to turn those remaining bits and pieces into a meal that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Soup with Sausage and Kale

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.

Ready for a fun twist on a classic? Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl turns dining into an experience, using a hollowed-out loaf of sourdough as an edible bowl. It’s not just about the flavors, which are comforting and delicious, but also about presenting a simple meal in an intriguing way. This recipe is a great reminder that creativity in the kitchen can turn even the simplest meal into an adventure.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Easy Cream of Poblano Soup

Two bowls of Cream of Poblano soup garnished with sour cream.
Easy Cream of Poblano Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Here’s a dish that brings a mild kick and loads of flavor to your table without much effort. Easy Cream of Poblano Soup is about simplicity, warmth, and a little bit of spice. It’s perfect for those days when you want something a bit different but still crave the comfort of a homemade soup. Turning basic components into this feast is a breeze, proving that great meals don’t have to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cream of Poblano Soup

Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup

Two bowls of Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup topped with crispy bacon bits and chopped chives.
Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup is a bowl of pure comfort. It combines hearty ingredients into a rich, creamy soup that feels like a treat. Perfect on a day when you need some cheering up, it uses simple leftovers to craft a feast. This soup is exactly what you need for a filling meal that feels like indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Potato-Bacon-Cheddar Soup

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.

Miss dining out but stuck with veggies that need using? Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup is your solution, mimicking a restaurant favorite with whatever you’ve got on hand. This soup is all about versatility and vegetable-packed goodness, providing a delicious way to make sure nothing goes to waste. It’s a vibrant, hearty dish that brings restaurant vibes to your kitchen table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup

Italian Wedding Soup

Two bowls of Italian Wedding Soup beside the plate of bread.
Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

There’s something special about a soup that brings together meat and greens in a clear broth, and Italian Wedding Soup does just that. It’s a dish full of contrasts, blending the delicate with the robust to create something truly harmonious. Ideal for using up those odds and ends, this soup offers a taste of Italy that’s both refined and utterly comforting. It showcases how even scraps can be turned into a dish with elegance and depth.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding 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.

When you’re looking for warmth with a bit of a kick, Spiced Red Lentil Soup provides just that. This dish is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures, proving that simple ingredients can come together to make something truly special. It’s a great way to use what you have to create a meal that’s nourishing, flavorful, and a little bit spicy. This soup is all about turning basic into brilliant.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Red Lentil 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.

Imagine transforming what you have into a soup that’s both exotic and easy. Tom Kha Soup does exactly this, offering a taste of Thailand that’s surprisingly simple to pull off. This dish is a great way to use up those last bits of vegetables and proteins, creating a coconutty, soothing feast that transports you. It’s proof that even when you’re down to scraps, you can still dine fantastically.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Soup

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