19 Soups That Prove a Pot of Simmering Goodness Can Be Just as Exciting as a Full-Course Meal

Who says a full-course meal is the only way to impress? These 19 soups show that a simmering pot can bring just as much excitement to the table. One bowl, and you’ll realize a simple meal can be packed with flavor and enough heart to keep you full. Don’t underestimate the power of a good soup—sometimes it’s all you need for a memorable meal.

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.

Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

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

Some meals just feel like home, and Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is one of them. It’s thick, rich, and loaded with everything that makes a pot of stew worth waiting for. The slow cooking brings out deep, hearty flavors that make every spoonful worth it. This one is perfect for those days when you need something filling without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup

A bowl of cabbage roll soup garnished with chopped parsley.
Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you like stuffed cabbage rolls but don’t want the extra work, Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup is the answer. It has all the same flavors in a simple, simmering pot that you can scoop right into a bowl. The mix of meat, cabbage, and rich broth comes together for a meal that feels like it’s been cooking all day. Great for a quick dinner that still tastes like it took hours.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Cabbage Roll Soup

Creamy Lobster Chowder

A bowl of creamy lobster chowder garnished with sliced green onions and herbs.
Creamy Lobster Chowder. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

When you’re in the mood for something rich and comforting, Creamy Lobster Chowder is a perfect choice. The smooth, thick base makes every spoonful indulgent, and the seafood adds just the right depth of flavor. It’s the kind of soup that feels special but is simple enough to make anytime. Serve it with some bread, and it’s a complete meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Lobster Chowder

Cheesy Lasagna Soup

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

All the cheesy, saucy goodness of lasagna without the layers—that’s Cheesy Lasagna Soup. It has everything you love about the classic dish, but in an easier, scoop-and-serve version. The melted cheese, rich broth, and hearty bites make it a meal on its own. No need to turn on the oven when you can get the same flavors in a pot.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Lasagna Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup

A bowl of cabbage roll soup with ground meat, chopped tomatoes, and rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cabbage Roll Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Everything you love about stuffed cabbage rolls is packed into Cabbage Roll Soup. It’s a one-pot meal that’s rich, filling, and easy to make. The balance of meat, cabbage, and broth makes every spoonful a perfect mix. Great for when you want a warm meal without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Roll Soup

Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

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

Chili lovers will appreciate how Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili brings bold flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooking gives everything time to blend together, making each bowl hearty and rich. It’s perfect for busy days when you need something ready to eat when you walk in the door. Top it however you like, and it’s a meal that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southwestern Chili

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.

There’s nothing like the deep, rich flavor of Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup to make a meal feel a little more special. The caramelized onions and broth come together perfectly, especially when topped with that layer of cheese and bread. It’s simple, classic, and always a good choice when you want something warm and flavorful. Whether as a starter or a full meal, it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Tuscan Soup with Sausage & Kale

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

If you want something rich but not too heavy, Tuscan Soup with Sausage & Kale is the way to go. The broth is packed with deep, well-balanced flavors, and the mix of sausage and greens makes it both filling and fresh. It’s the kind of soup that works for a casual dinner or a cozy night in. Serve it with some bread, and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Soup with Sausage & Kale

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.

Big flavors and a hearty mix of ingredients make Texas Cowboy Stew a meal that can feed anyone. It’s thick, meaty, and packed with everything you need to fill up after a long day. Every bite brings something different, making it more than just a basic stew. Perfect for when you want something that sticks with you.
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew

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.

A little smoky, a little creamy, and packed with flavor, Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle makes any meal feel complete. The mix of shrimp and corn gives it a balance of fresh and hearty. The smoky kick brings just enough heat without overpowering the dish. It’s a great way to switch up the usual soup routine.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

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.

A warm bowl of Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup is great for days when you want something simple but full of flavor. The blend of tomatoes and peppers gives it a deep, slightly sweet taste that’s perfect for dipping. It’s smooth, rich, and pairs well with a grilled sandwich or just on its own. A classic soup with a little extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Easy Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Fully-Loaded Seafood Chowder

A bowl of fully loaded seafood chowder garnished with fresh dill and cracked pepper on top.
Fully-Loaded Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

For those who love seafood, Fully-Loaded Seafood Chowder is packed with everything you could want in a bowl. It’s thick, creamy, and full of bold flavors that make each bite worth it. There’s no need for extra sides—this one is a full meal all on its own. Great for nights when you want something rich and filling.
Get the Recipe: Fully-Loaded Seafood Chowder

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.

Everything comes together quickly with Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes, making it perfect for busy nights. The mix of pasta, sausage, and broth makes it both filling and easy to love. It’s one of those meals that feels like it took longer to make than it actually did. Just scoop into a bowl and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Tomatoes (Instant Pot)

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

Creamy, warm, and packed with flavor, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is always a good choice. The mix of soft gnocchi and a rich broth makes it feel like pure comfort in a bowl. It’s one of those meals that works just as well for a cozy dinner as it does for a quick lunch. Simple, easy, and always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

Classic and filling, Pasta e Fagioli Soup has just the right mix of pasta, beans, and broth to make it a complete meal. It’s simple, rich, and full of flavor, making it a great go-to for any night of the week. The balance of textures keeps every bite interesting. Serve it up with some crusty bread, and you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger soup in two serving bowls.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Everything you love about a cheeseburger, but in a bowl—Cheeseburger Soup is a fun way to change up dinner. It’s thick, creamy, and packed with all the flavors that make a great burger. The best part? No bun needed, just a spoon and an appetite. Perfect for when you want comfort food without the mess!
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Two bowls of quinoa salad topped with avocado slices, cheese, and sour cream.
Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you want something hearty but different from regular chili, Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa is a great pick. It’s full of rich flavors and textures that make every bite interesting. The mix of ingredients makes it filling without being too heavy. Great for a quick meal that still feels complete.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Smoked Beef Stew

A white bowl filled with smoked beef stew.
Smoked Beef Stew. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A little smoky, a little rich, and packed with bold flavor—that’s what you get with Smoked Beef Stew. The deep, slow-cooked taste makes it seem like it’s been simmering all day. Every bite is thick, meaty, and full of depth. Perfect for when you want something hearty without a lot of extra work.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew

Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup

A spoon lifting a a portion of Copycat Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup.
Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Light, fresh, and packed with a variety of textures, Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup is a great option when you want something wholesome. The mix of veggies keeps it interesting, while the broth ties everything together. It’s not too heavy, but still feels like a full meal. A great pick for when you want something warm and filling without being too rich.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread’s 10 Vegetable Soup

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