17 Light yet Satisfying Soups & Stews for Any Season

We all know that the weather shouldn’t dictate our dinner choices. That’s why having go-to soups and stews that work in any season is so handy. These dishes are versatile enough to fit the bill, whether rainy, sunny, or somewhere between. They manage to keep the satisfaction high while keeping the heaviness low. Perfect for those nights when the fridge looks empty, but you still want something more than a sandwich. It’s a versatile selection you’ll keep returning to, no matter the time of year. Give them a shot and see how well they fit into your meal rotation.

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A hand holding a spoonful of creamy chicken noodle soup with vegetables over a bowl, accompanied by slices of bread on a plate.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and smooth broth. This combination is light yet hearty enough for any time of year. It’s both comforting and nutritious, perfect for chilly nights or warming up on a rainy day. The flavors meld perfectly without weighing you down. It is a great option for lunch or dinner, any day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Seafood Chowder

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

For something a bit different, Seafood Chowder mixes fresh seafood with a light, creamy broth that doesn’t overpower. It’s a wonderful balance of rich flavors without the heaviness typically associated with chowders. This dish makes every meal feel special and can be enjoyed anytime. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more seafood into your diet. Ideal for a cozy evening or special weekend lunch.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Beef and Barley Soup delivers a wholesome meal with tender beef and hearty barley when craving something classic. This soup manages to be filling without being overly heavy. Its balanced flavors are perfect throughout the year for lunch or dinner. It brings a comforting taste that’s reminiscent of home-cooked meals. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it an intelligent choice anytime.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

A closeup of a bowl of Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup.
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup combines sweet potatoes’ gentle sweetness with cauliflower’s earthiness. This blend creates a smooth, comforting dish that’s health-conscious and delicious. It’s an excellent way to get a variety of vegetables into your diet. This is great for a light lunch or a starter for dinner. Its appealing flavor profile adds a bit of excitement to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

Shrimp & Corn Chowder

Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle in a bowl.
Shrimp & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixing the sweetness of corn with succulent shrimp, Shrimp & Corn Chowder offers a soup option that feels light and luxurious. The blend is perfect for warmer days when you want something warm but not too heavy. Enjoy its rich yet light consistency, which keeps you coming back for more. It’s an excellent year-round choice sure to please. It makes an impressive dish for entertaining guests.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Featuring tender chicken and soft gnocchi, Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines the best of both worlds. Light and comforting, it fits well into any seasonal menu. Think of it as an upgrade to traditional chicken soup, with gnocchi adding a lovely texture. This makes for a heartwarming meal without the heaviness. Perfect for anyone who enjoys Italian flavors in their soup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Tortellini Soup with Sausage in a white bowl.
Tortellini Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tortellini Soup with Sausage offers a lovely mix of pasta and spicy sausage. This blend of flavors is rich yet not too much, making it perfect all year round. The tortellini provides a lovely bite that complements the hearty sausage. Consider it a balanced meal that can quickly become a family favorite. Its heartiness makes it excellent for dinner on any night.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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

Authentic Hungarian Goulash brings classic flavors to your table. Its rich blend of beef and paprika feels traditional and novel. This soup stands out for its deep, warming flavor that’s not too overpowering. It’s a meal that works on both chilly and mild days, offering comfort without the weight. Perfect for when you want something a bit different, its rich history and taste make it a winner anytime.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Steak & Potato Soup

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pairing tender steak with chunky potatoes, Steak & Potato Soup is a filling yet light meal option. The flavors are robust without being too much, making it suitable for any season. Ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner, this soup won’t leave you feeling overly full. It’s great for when you need something heartwarming that isn’t too heavy. This one’s sure to be a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup

Lobster Chowder

A bowl of lobster chowder with bread on the side.
Lobster Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Lobster Chowder is the answer if you want luxury in a bowl without the heaviness. This chowder features succulent lobster in a creamy broth that’s surprisingly light. It’s an excellent choice for making any meal feel special, whether a weekday dinner or weekend lunch. Richly flavored yet manageable, it fits perfectly into any time of year. It is suitable for both casual dining and entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Chowder

Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Two bowls of Turkey Pot Pie Soup with crackers and spoons.
Turkey Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey Pot Pie Soup combines turkey and vegetables in a comforting broth to transform a classic dish into a lighter version. It turns the heavy pot pie into something more manageable. It is ideal for when you crave the warm, familiar flavors of pot pie without the heaviness. This makes it suitable for any season, offering comfort and nutrition. It is perfect for a simple lunch or cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup in two white bowls with garnishes nearby.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Blending smokey and spicy flavors, Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup provides an exciting twist to your traditional soup choices. The smoked chicken adds depth that pairs well with the lighter broth. Seasonal spices make it a fit for any time of year. It’s great when you want something light yet engaging for your meal. Plus, it has a bit of a kick that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

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Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Adding a bit of heat to your day, Cream of Jalapeno Soup offers a unique blend of spicy and creamy. This combination makes it perfect for those who love a little extra flavor without the weight. The heat is balanced rightly to keep it enjoyable for most palates. It’s a refreshing departure from ordinary cream soups. It is ideal for spicing up your meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup

A white plate with fully loaded baked potato soup and vegetables on it.
Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Offering all the fun of a loaded baked potato in a lighter form, Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup doesn’t skimp on flavor. This soup combines hearty potatoes, bacon, and cheese in a balanced, light broth. It is suitable for those who want comfort food without feeling stuffed. Its filling nature makes it great for lunch or dinner any day. Enjoy the classic loaded potato taste in a more manageable form.
Get the Recipe: Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Two bowls of soup on a table.
Chicken & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken & Corn Chowder is a lovely blend of tender and sweet corn in a light broth. It offers a nice balance of flavors, making it a healthy option for any meal. This soup fits well into various meal plans and is great for enjoying any season. The corn adds a touch of sweetness without being overwhelming. Perfect for when you want something light yet heartwarming.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Cullen Skink

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

Cullen Skink is a traditional yet refreshing Scottish soup featuring smoked fish and potatoes in a light broth. Its mild yet inviting flavors make it an excellent choice for any season. This traditional recipe offers a unique taste that stands out without being too much. Perfect for those wanting to try something new. It’s a nutritious and filling option with a lighter twist.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing comfort in a bowl, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup mimics a popular favorite with a lighter twist. This soup combines rich potatoes and light broth that don’t compromise taste. It suits everyday meal plans and makes any lunch or dinner feel special. This recipe is a comforting choice for any potato lover. Perfect for fulfilling your cravings without overloading you.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

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