20 Cozy Winter Soup Dinner Recipes to Warm You Up

When the temperature drops and the frosty air nips at your nose, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of soup.

Winter is the perfect season to embrace hearty, flavorful soups that not only warm your body but also soothe your soul.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a cozy dinner party, these 20 cozy winter soup dinner recipes are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Let’s dive into a world of rich broths, tender vegetables, and savory meats that will make your winter evenings unforgettable.

1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

A timeless favorite, this soup combines tender chicken, soft noodles, and a savory broth infused with carrots, celery, and herbs.

Like a warm hug in a bowl, this dish is the epitome of comfort on cold nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Saute the aromatics (i.e. onions, garlic, carrots, and celery) in olive oil until they are tender and fragrant.
2. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper and bring the soup to a boil.
3. Add diced chicken to the pot and simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed and then garnish with fresh parsley before serving (Serve hot).

2. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Velvety and rich, this soup pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream create a luxurious bowl of warmth.

Ingredients:

• 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Pour in a combination of fresh and canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, uncovered, until the flavors meld. Carefully immerse the immersion blender into the soup and blend in a circular motion until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Heat gently (do not boil).
5. Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

3. Hearty Beef Stew

More of a stew than a soup, this recipe features chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots simmered in a thick, flavorful broth. It’s a meal in itself.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss beef cubes in flour, salt, and pepper. Brown the meat in a pot with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat for 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
2. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in tomato paste.
3. Pour in beef broth and add thyme. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer.
4. Add potatoes and carrots. Cover the pot tightly and cook over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve with crusty bread.

4. Butternut Squash Soup

Sweet, nutty, and creamy, butternut squash soup is a winter staple.

Top it with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for extra flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat and then add diced onions and minced garlic and cook (stirring occasionally), until softened and translucent.
2. Add cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
3. Carefully immerse the immersion blender into the soup and blend in a circular motion until the soup is completely smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in coconut milk and heat gently.
5. Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of cream.

5. French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, a rich beef broth, and a gooey layer of melted cheese on top – this classic French soup is a showstopper for any dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 cup white wine (optional)
• 4 slices baguette
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter and olive oil in a pot. Add onions and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes until caramelized.
2. Add 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, 1/2 cup of dry white wine (if using), and 4 cups of beef broth to the pot (Simmer for 20 minutes).
3. Preheat the broiler. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls.
4. Top each bowl with a baguette slice and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese.
5. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve immediately.

6. Spicy Lentil Soup

Packed with protein and fiber, this spicy lentil soup is both nutritious and satisfying. A dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper adds a warming kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat followed by adding onions, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, stirring for 1 minute to release the aromas.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and add lentils. Bring the mixture to a full boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked through but still retain a slight bite.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

7. Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Smooth, comforting, and oh-so-creamy, this soup is made with simple ingredients like potatoes, leeks, and a splash of cream. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 leeks, well-washed and thinly sliced (use only the white and light green parts)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pot and saute leeks until soft (5 minutes).
2. Add potatoes and broth. Bring the mixture to a full boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through but still retain a slight bite.
3. Next up, take an immersion blender and run it to make a puree, until the soup is nicely smoothened and creamy.
4. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil).
5. Season with salt and pepper and garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives and serve with a basket of warm, crusty bread.

8. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Bring a little spice to your winter nights with this Mexican-inspired soup.

Topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, it’s a flavor explosion.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 avocado, diced
• Tortilla strips for topping

Instructions:

1. Saute onions, garlic, and jalapeno in olive oil until softened.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Add shredded chicken and corn. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve topped with avocado, tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime.

9. Minestrone Soup

Loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta, minestrone is a hearty and healthy option that’s perfect for a filling dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup cooked pasta
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add zucchini, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked pasta and kidney beans. Heat through.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a slice of crusty bread on the side.

10. Clam Chowder

This New England classic is creamy, briny, and utterly delicious. Serve it in a bread bowl for the ultimate cozy experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (6.5 oz each) minced clams, drained (reserve juice)
• 4 cups clam juice or seafood broth
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté onions and celery until softened.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add clam juice, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add potatoes and cook until tender (15 minutes).
5. Stir in clams and heavy cream. Heat gently (do not boil). Season with salt and pepper. Serve in bread bowls for a cozy touch.

11. Moroccan Harira Soup

A fragrant blend of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, this soup is a taste of North Africa. It’s both nourishing and exotic.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot and saute onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, stirring for 1 minute.
3. Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas and boil the soup followed by simmering it for 30 to 35 minutes.
4. Stir in cilantro and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve with a wedge of lemon and warm pita bread for an authentic Moroccan experience.

12. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Cheesy, creamy, and packed with broccoli, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a crusty bread roll for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add broccoli and cook until tender (10-12 minutes).
5. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is nicely smoothened and creamy. Next, season this creamy broccoli cheddar soup to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper (Serve with crusty bread).

13. Thai Coconut Soup

With its creamy coconut base, lemongrass, and a hint of spice, this Thai-inspired soup is a tropical escape on a cold winter night.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 3 whole kaffir lime leaves, or the finely grated zest of 1 lime
• 1-inch ginger, sliced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 chili pepper, sliced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Infuse the chicken broth with the aromatic flavors of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and ginger by combining them all in a pot (Simmer for 10 minutes).
2. Add the sliced chicken to the pot and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
3. Next up, stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and the juice of 1 lime.Remove lemongrass and lime leaves before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and chili slices. Serve this thai coconut soup with steamed rice.

14. Italian Wedding Soup

Tiny meatballs, spinach, and pasta float in a light, savory broth in this classic Italian soup. It’s elegant yet comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb ground chicken or turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo)
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Form into tiny meatballs.
2. In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add carrots and celery, cooking for 10 minutes.
3. Add meatballs and pasta. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until meatballs are cooked and pasta is tender.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

15. Split Pea Soup

Hearty and wholesome, split pea soup is a winter favorite. Smoked ham hocks or bacon add a smoky depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ham hock or 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, cook bacon or ham hock until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in the same pot until they are tender and translucent.
3. Add split peas, broth, thyme, and cooked bacon or ham hock. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 1-1.5 hours until the peas are tender.
4. Remove ham hock (if used), shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread.

16. Creamy Mushroom Soup

Earthy mushrooms, garlic, and thyme come together in this velvety soup. It’s a luxurious option for mushroom lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme sprigs to the pot and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and softened.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil). Season with salt and pepper. Add a touch of vibrant green by garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

17. Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Nutty wild rice, tender chicken, and a creamy broth make this soup a hearty and satisfying dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup wild rice blend
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Saute the aromatics i.e. onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they are tender and fragrant.
3. Add chicken, thyme, and broth followed by allowing the flavors to meld as the chicken simmers gently for 15 minutes, or until cooked to perfection.
4. Stir in cooked wild rice and heavy cream. Heat gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Add a burst of freshness by serving with a sprinkle of herbs.

18. Corn Chowder

Sweet corn, potatoes, and a creamy base make this chowder a comforting choice. Add a sprinkle of bacon for extra indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook bacon in a pot until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter and saute onions until softened.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add broth, potatoes, and corn. Allow the potatoes to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until they become easily pierced with a fork.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

19. Vietnamese Pho

This noodle soup is a fragrant tapestry of flavors, where the warmth of ginger, the sweetness of cinnamon, and the subtle anise notes create a truly enticing broth.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2-inch ginger, sliced
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 8 oz rice noodles
• Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro)
• Bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Simmer beef broth with aromatics (such as onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon) in a pot for about 20 to 25 minutes.
2. Add fish sauce and soy sauce. Strain the broth.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Arrange rice noodles in bowls, top with thinly sliced raw beef, and then pour the simmering hot broth over to gently cook the meat.
5. Garnish generously with fresh herbs, crisp bean sprouts, a squeeze of lime, and a touch of fiery chili. Serve immediately.

20. Roasted Red Pepper Soup

Sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy, this vibrant soup is a feast for the senses. A dollop of sour cream or croutons adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients:

• 4 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Char the red peppers thoroughly by roasting them, then carefully peel off the blackened skin before chopping
2. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add roasted peppers, broth, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Carefully immerse the immersion blender into the soup and blend in a circular motion until a smooth and velvety consistency is achieved.
5. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or croutons.

Why Are These Dinner Focused Soups Perfect for Winter?

Winter is all about staying warm and nourished, and these 20 cozy winter soup dinner recipes do just that.

They’re packed with wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and the kind of comfort that only a homemade soup can provide.

Whether you’re craving something creamy, spicy, or hearty, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

Tips for Making the Perfect Winter Soup

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices make all the difference.
• Simmer slowly: Letting your soup simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Don’t skip the garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a handful of croutons can elevate your soup to the next level.

Final Thoughts

As the winter chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a bowl of homemade soup.

These 20 cozy winter soup dinner recipes are designed to bring comfort, flavor, and joy to your table.

So grab your ladle, fire up the stove, and get ready to create memories-one delicious spoonful at a time.

Remember, the key to a great winter dinner is simplicity, warmth, and a touch of love.