As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And what better time to indulge in this culinary comfort than during the holiday season? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 heartwarming Christmas soup recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From creamy roasted butternut squash to spicy sausage and kale, and from classic French onion to Moroccan spiced lentil, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these cozy Christmas soup recipes are sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.
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Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth, then add broth and blend until well combined.
7. Transfer the soup to a saucepan and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
8. Heat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This slow cooker recipe combines the comforting flavors of turkey, wild rice, and vegetables to create a delicious and satisfying soup. Perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the turkey breast, wild rice blend, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the spicy kick of sausage with the nutritious goodness of kale. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, onion, garlic, kale, bell pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons Recipe
Summary: This iconic soup recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese to create a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted and cubed (for croutons)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add salt and pepper; stir to combine. Cook for 10 minutes or until the onions are dark golden brown.
3. Pour in beef broth; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Preheat broiler. Toast baguette slices, then cube them into croutons. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Ladle hot soup into oven-proof bowls; top each bowl with a crouton and place under broiler until the cheese melts and bubbles.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Eve Tomato Bisque
Warm up on Christmas Eve with a creamy and comforting bowl of tomato bisque. This recipe is perfect for a chilly winter evening, and the flavors are sure to complement your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Potato and Ham Chowder
Warm up with this hearty Cheesy Potato and Ham Chowder recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the chowder to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and cauliflower florets in a little bit of olive oil over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the roasted garlic, broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Festive Cranberry-Apple Turkey Soup
Festive Cranberry-Apple Turkey Soup Recipe
Summary: This warm and comforting soup combines the flavors of roasted turkey, cranberries, and apples to create a perfect blend for the holiday season. Serve it as a starter or a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups roasted turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add turkey, cranberries, apple, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dutch Split Pea Soup with Smoked Sausage
This classic Dutch soup recipe combines the comforting flavors of split peas, smoked sausage, and aromatic spices for a warming and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split green peas
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the split peas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cozy Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Cozy Chicken and Dumpling Soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups dumpling mixture (see below)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Prepare dumpling mixture by whisking together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add melted butter, stirring until combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture into the soup, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup
This classic North African recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the aromatic spices of Morocco, creating a flavorful and nutritious soup perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened. Add cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the spice mixture to the lentil pot and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Simmer the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew with Mushrooms
This classic stew recipe combines tender beef, creamy barley, and earthy mushrooms for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and beef; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender and barley is creamy.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Creamy Wild Mushroom and Thyme Soup
A rich and savory soup that highlights the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms, perfectly balanced with the warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, oyster, and cremini), cleaned and sliced
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and thyme; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add garlic and flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Mexican Pozole with Pork
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Mexican cuisine, made with tender pork, hominy, and a blend of spices. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups hominy, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Sour cream, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork over medium-high heat. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until softened.
3. Add hominy, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the pork to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, sour cream, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips (if using).
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Christmas Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup
Transform your leftover turkey into a warm and comforting soup perfect for the holiday season. This recipe is a great way to use up those extra bird bones and veggies, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey (white and dark meat), diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine turkey, chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add egg noodles, peas and carrots, and thyme to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup Recipe
Warm up with this vibrant and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 3-4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped red peppers with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
8. If using, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Swedish Yellow Pea Soup with Bacon
This hearty soup is a staple of Swedish cuisine, made with split yellow peas and smoky bacon. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the yellow split peas and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the peas are tender.
2. While the peas are cooking, cook the diced bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the bacon and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir the cooked pea mixture into the pan with the bacon and onion. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ginger-Carrot Soup with Coconut Milk
This creamy soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger, all wrapped up in a rich coconut milk broth. Perfect for a cozy evening or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, carrots, and ginger; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup
This hearty soup combines the smoky depth of black beans with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium heat until softened.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Herbed Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines the flavors of herbs, chicken, and wild rice to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, red, and black rice)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary), chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed wild rice, chicken broth, chopped herbs, and dried oregano to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this Christmas season with these 20 heartwarming soup recipes. From classic French Onion to spicy Sausage and Kale, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup or Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup for a comforting twist on traditional holiday fare. For a more exotic flavor, opt for Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup or Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup. Whatever your taste, these soups are sure to warm hearts and bellies this Christmas.
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