Mid-week dinners can feel like a challenge. You’ve survived Monday and Tuesday, but now you’re craving something cozy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. If that sounds like you, then soups are your best friend.
They’re quick, comforting, and perfect for a Wednesday pick-me-up. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and hearty, there’s a soup recipe that fits the bill.
Why Soups Are Perfect for Wednesday Dinners
Soups are the ultimate dinner solution for busy people. They’re easy to make, usually require minimal ingredients, and you can prep them ahead of time.
The beauty of soup lies in its versatility—you can make it from scratch, or simply use leftovers to create something new.
Plus, they’re great for meal prep, which means you can enjoy a bowl of comfort on a busy Wednesday without much effort. So, let’s dive into some of the top soup recipes for your mid-week meal.
1. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
There’s nothing quite like the classic pairing of tomato and basil. This creamy tomato basil soup is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor.
Start by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil, then add canned tomatoes, fresh basil, and vegetable broth. Once it’s simmered to perfection, blend everything together to create a smooth base.
Add a splash of cream, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra touch. Serve with a side of grilled cheese, and you’ve got a comforting dinner in no time!
2. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is the quintessential comfort food. It’s hearty, soothing, and always hits the spot when you need a pick-me-up.
This recipe uses boneless chicken breast, carrots, celery, and onions, along with fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. The chicken simmers in a flavorful broth until it’s tender and juicy, then add your favorite pasta.
You can easily customize this soup by using rotisserie chicken for a shortcut or adding extra vegetables for a nutrient boost.
3. Butternut Squash Soup
This velvety smooth soup is perfect for fall, but it’s great any time of year. Roasted butternut squash brings out a natural sweetness that blends perfectly with onions, garlic, and a touch of nutmeg.
Simply roast the squash until caramelized, then blend it with vegetable stock and a little bit of cream to add richness. The result is a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy soup that’s sure to satisfy. Top it off with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch!
4. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone is a veggie-packed, Italian-inspired soup that’s as healthy as it is delicious. This hearty dish is made with a mix of vegetables like carrots, zucchini, potatoes, tomatoes, and beans, along with small pasta.
The key is in the broth—combine vegetable or chicken stock with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for that authentic flavor. It’s a perfect soup to clear out the fridge and use up leftover vegetables while enjoying a comforting bowl of goodness.
5. Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is a comforting dish that’s simple yet so satisfying. The leeks add a mild onion flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy potatoes.
Start by sautéing the leeks in butter, then add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and a pinch of thyme. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then blend the soup until smooth.
Add a bit of cream for richness and serve with crusty bread for dipping. This is the kind of soup that’ll warm you from the inside out.
6. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup
For a healthy and hearty mid-week dinner, sweet potato and black bean soup is a great option. The sweetness of the potatoes balances out the earthiness of the black beans, creating a delicious flavor combination.
You’ll need sweet potatoes, black beans, onions, garlic, and some basic spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer everything together in vegetable broth, and blend if you prefer a smoother texture. This soup is also great for meal prep and can be topped with sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
7. French Onion Soup
If you’re craving something rich and flavorful, French onion soup is the answer. The caramelized onions are the star of this dish, offering a deep, sweet flavor that’s hard to beat.
After sautéing the onions until golden, you’ll add beef broth, thyme, and a splash of white wine. Once it’s simmered and the flavors have melded together, top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and melted Gruyère cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
8. Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling option for dinner.
Start by simmering split peas with carrots, onions, celery, and garlic in vegetable or chicken broth. Add in a ham hock or diced ham for extra flavor.
Let it cook low and slow until the peas are tender and the soup thickens. You can blend part of the soup for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for more bite.
9. Roasted Carrot and Ginger Soup
For a light yet flavorful soup, try roasted carrot and ginger soup. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the spicy kick of fresh ginger creates a perfectly balanced bowl.
Roast the carrots with a bit of olive oil until tender and caramelized, then blend them with vegetable broth, ginger, and a splash of coconut milk. The result is a creamy, velvety soup with a hint of heat from the ginger—perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
10. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a nutritious and filling meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. This hearty soup is loaded with fiber and protein, making it perfect for a meatless dinner.
To make it, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil, then add lentils, garlic, and vegetable broth. Season with cumin, turmeric, and bay leaves, and let it simmer until the lentils are tender.
For extra flavor, finish the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Conclusion
There you have it—ten delicious and easy soup recipes to elevate your Wednesday dinner. These soups are not only tasty but also comforting, filling, and full of nutrition.
Whether you’re craving something creamy and indulgent or light and healthy, there’s a soup for every mood. So, next Wednesday, skip the takeout and treat yourself to one of these homemade bowls of goodness. Your body will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good side dishes to serve with soup?
Freshly baked bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables are all great side options for soup. Pairing with something light helps balance the meal.
How can I make soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, try blending part of it, adding a starch like potatoes or rice, or using a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour.
Can I freeze homemade soup?
Yes, most soups freeze well. Just let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the freezer for up to three months.
Can I substitute ingredients in soup recipes?
Absolutely! Soups are very customizable, so feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.
How long does it take to make soup from scratch?
Most soups can be made in under an hour, but some recipes (like slow-cooked ones) may take longer. It all depends on the ingredients and cooking method.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for later use.
Can I make soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, many soup recipes can be adapted for the slow cooker, which makes them even more convenient for a busy evening.
What’s the healthiest soup option?
Vegetable-based soups like lentil, minestrone, and split pea are all packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
How can I make soup spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, fresh chilies, or spices like cumin and paprika to give your soup an extra kick.
Can I use canned vegetables in soup?
Yes, canned vegetables can be used in soups, but fresh produce often provides more flavor and nutrients. Just be mindful of the sodium in canned options.