39 Easy Soup Recipes I Make When I’m Short On Time

When time’s short and hunger’s loud, there’s no shame in calling for backup: a big bowl of something warm. These 39 easy soups have saved plenty of nights when plans fell apart or energy disappeared mid-thought. They’re fast, flexible, and surprisingly good at pretending you planned dinner all along.

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup with wide noodles, chunks of chicken, carrots, celery, and herbs in a clear broth.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When short on time soup needs to deliver with zero hassle. Bowls of Chicken Noodle Soup warm up a rough day and go from pot to table fast. Every spoonful feels simple but still hits all the right cravings. Families always finish their bowls. It’s an easy choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a pick-me-up when the clock is ticking? Grab a pot and ladle out Lentil Soup for a quick fix. It’s filling and works well for anyone hungry. The best part is how fast it comes together when you need food now. Serve with any bread and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Close-up of a bowl of chicken tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips, avocado pieces, corn, cheese, and herbs in a rich red broth.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunch makes everything better on a rushed dinner night. Big spoons of Chicken Tortilla Soup give you both a kick and comfort without fuss. It pairs well with whatever snacks are in your pantry. People usually ask for seconds even on a busy weeknight. This one never misses for quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Busy schedules can still fit real food. Make a big pot of Minestrone Soup and you have lunch and dinner ready without extra work. Mixes nicely with bread or crackers if you want more. Plates empty out faster than you expect. Plus leftovers work for tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Need something smooth in no time? Go with Leek and Potato Soup for a quick dinner that’s actually easy. Bowls clean out every time you serve it. No mess or long lists needed. This soup does the trick for last-minute meals.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Mushroom Soup

Mushroom soup that's delightfully creamy, adorned with sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of cream, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Want comfort in a rush? Warm up some Mushroom Soup for a fast, rich meal. The bowl is always empty at the end. It goes well with a slice of bread or crackers. Everyday dinners taste better with this quick soup.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon.
Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some nights call for something fun but simple. Try serving Cheeseburger Soup for meals you throw together in a flash. People love the mashup of flavors inside. It keeps dinner easy when time is tight. You might even make it again the next day by request.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup

A close-up of a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup garnished with croutons, a sprig of mint, and grated cheese.
Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Long days call for quick meals with minimum steps. Whip up Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup and get filling bowls fast. It’s easy to serve with plain bread. Guests usually want more before seconds are even passed out. You can’t beat the speed or comfort here.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup

Cabbage Soup

A close-up of a steaming pot of hearty cabbage soup in a tomato-based broth, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Time crunch calls for simple choices. Make a big pot of Cabbage Soup because it gets ready fast. It’s great for busy nights or when you need something light. Bowls empty in minutes. Store leftovers in the fridge for an easy snack later.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Soup

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ramen always wins on quick nights but sometimes you want a twist. Serve Birria Ramen for extra flavor in every slurp. It’s a hit for speedy dinners when you want something new. Everyone hurries for seconds. Hits the spot after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Pumpkin Soup

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves.
Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet comfort works so well when you hurry home late. Pour up some Pumpkin Soup for a smooth and calming meal. Guests think it’s a fancy trick for such low effort. Pairs with bread or crackers for the full deal. You’ll use this recipe more than once.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Two bowls of tomato soup with basil and tomatoes.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Need something easy and chill for meal time? Stir together Roasted Tomato Basil Soup on a short night for a fast win. It works with grilled cheese or on its own. Quick to make and even quicker to finish. This one is a life-saver recipe.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Want big flavor in a short amount of time? Ladle up hot bowls of Spicy Lasagna Soup when schedules run tight. It’s bold without all the prep of regular lasagna. Pairs well with noodles or bread for dipping. People will finish every drop.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Vegetable Soup

Close-up of a bowl of vegetable soup with spinach, peas, carrots, celery, and large beans, topped with grated cheese. A spoon rests in the bowl.
Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Speed matters some nights so keep it easy. Fill your pot with Vegetable Soup and dinner is halfway done before you know it. This works for whatever’s on hand so there’s no shopping stress. Top with croutons for a simple crunch. You always have leftovers for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Soup

Chicken Soup

A pot of soup with sliced carrots, potatoes, and herbs floating in a seasoned broth.
Chicken Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple bowls help keep things easy when you want warmth and quick comfort with hardly any mess to clean up. Chicken Soup packs up for work lunch or sits well after a long day and always seems to make leftovers worth looking forward to. Just heat it up and everyone settles in fast. People always go for a second bowl before the pot cools.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Soup

Coconut Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, bok choy, mushrooms, half a boiled egg, sesame seeds, and lime, garnished with chili slices. Black chopsticks hold some noodles above the bowl.
Coconut Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Lazy evenings need fuss-free meals that still feel special. Stir up Coconut Ramen for a fast bowl you’ll actually want to eat. It feels light but still fills everyone up. Eat solo or top with easy pantry finds. Friends always ask for your secret.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen

Roasted Tomato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of roasted tomato soup topped with toasted bread chunks, fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing beats hot soup on nights you want to relax quick. Pour up some Roasted Tomato Soup for a smooth and easy dinner. Dips are welcome but not needed. Bowls clean out no matter who’s over. Old favorites stick around for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A pot of creamy vegetable and chicken soup with mushrooms, corn, peas, carrots, and herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Busy families keep things cozy with bowls that go far. Heat up Chicken Pot Pie Soup for dinner in a flash. It’s thick without needing pie crusts. Makes dinner simple when you’re running out of steam. Leftovers work for lunch next day too.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

A close-up of soup with meatballs, carrots, celery, spinach, slivered almonds, and fresh herbs in a clear broth.
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you plan ahead even just a bit, throw together Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup in the morning. By dinner it’s hot and ready with no work left to do. Every spoonful is hearty and perfect for fast days. Pairs with anything simple on the side. Everyone usually wants seconds.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top.
Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick dinners need to be filling and familiar. Serve a big bowl of Turkey Soup for a meal that feels like home. It’s great after a long day when you need food on the table in minutes. Tastes good with crackers or bread. Extras keep well for tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup

Chicken Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with minced meat, spinach, sliced scallions, half a soft-boiled egg, and noodles in broth, garnished with sesame seeds and pepper.
Chicken Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ramen bowls are always in season when time is short. Sit down to Chicken Ramen for a super fast fix. No one misses takeout when you have this at home. Add whatever extras you want or keep it plain. Never fails to hit the spot after work.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Ramen

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You want real food without hours at the stove. Toss together Tortellini Soup for a hearty meal that cooks up quick. Chewy bites make it more filling than regular soup. Add some bread and you’re all set. Clean up is easy too.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple pours land in mugs fast so snack breaks or quiet meals are never too hard to get going. Egg Drop Soup holds up for solo eats or big gatherings and doesn’t let leftovers go to waste. You scoop up each spoonful before thinking about all those extra treats. Pots empty out with barely a drop left.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Ham and Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with pieces of ham, garnished with chopped parsley, and a spoon resting in the bowl.
Ham and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Filling up fast is easy with Ham and Bean Soup. It’s rich without taking all night to cook. Serve with cornbread or crackers for a full meal. People will ask for more before you’ve finished your first bowl. Pack leftovers up—they’re great the next day.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Bean Soup

Tonkotsu Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, a halved boiled egg, sliced meat, green leafy vegetables, and mushrooms in broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Shortcut dinners get done quick with Tonkotsu Ramen. The flavors run deep but the effort stays low. Put together for nights when you want comfort without waiting long. Top with easy fixings. Never any leftovers once this is out.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Last minute meals get an upgrade with bowls of Marry Me Chicken Soup. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in. It’s creamy and hearty without much work. Bring it out at family dinners where speed matters. Empty bowls mean it’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Pea and Mint Soup

A bowl of creamy green pea soup garnished with mint leaves, black pepper, and pieces of crusty bread.
Pea and Mint Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snap up fresh flavor by making Pea and Mint Soup. It’s quick so you’re not standing by the stove forever. Light, green soup makes any night feel easy. Works with toast or as a light dinner on its own. This flavor combo always surprises people.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nights where something bold is needed, try Hot and Sour Soup. It brings a quick kick and clears out hunger in one bowl. Ladle straight from pot to bowl with no fuss. Friends will ask how you got it ready in so little time. It’s a staple for fast comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Corn Chowder

A close-up of a hearty potato and corn chowder with diced vegetables and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with fresh parsley.
Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you want fast but creamy stick to bowls of Corn Chowder. It feels filling but takes almost no time to make. It works for big families who want seconds. Top it with anything you like. The pot is scraped clean by the end.
Get the Recipe: Corn Chowder

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup garnished with herbs, seeds, and two slices of seasoned bread. The soup has a swirled texture and a vibrant orange color.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth soup comes together quickest with Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. It’s easy to ladle and serve in a hurry. Bread or rolls are a great match. People get second bowls without a second thought. Stays warm for refills too.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Keep things low-key on busy evenings. Scoop out Potato Soup when time is tight and you want quick comfort. It fits with any side or stands alone. Creamy but not too heavy so people finish up happily. Makes great leftovers as well.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Speed is king on nights with little time to cook. Make a pot of Taco Soup for bold flavor without hassle. Bowls empty out even faster than you expect. Top with chips or anything you have around. This one makes everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl.
Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rushed days need reliable options. Pour up Red Lentil Soup for fast dinners with zero waiting. It’s protein-packed and simple. Serve it thick or thin with pita or rice. Always makes for a solid meal.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want something bright and quick try Tom Yum Soup. It’s spicy and sour but takes little time to prep. Bowls are never half-full. Good for wake-up meals after a long day. You’ll use this trick over and over.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Sweet Potato Soup

A bowl of sweet potato soup with bread next to it.
Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick meals can still be smooth and rich. Grab bowls of Sweet Potato Soup for an easy fix. Goes well with toast or all on its own. Friendly on your stomach and your clock. Everyone finishes without any nudging.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Soup

Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley.
Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You get comfort and speed with a pot of Vegetable Beef Soup. Toss in everything fast and let it simmer while you work. Makes a solid meal for a group. Goes with bread or plain. Leftovers taste even better.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Soup

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

On nights you want something classic but quick go for French Onion Soup. It feels fancy but cooks up with almost no fuss. Grilled bread works perfectly with it. Everyone loves the hot cheesy top. This soup wins every single time.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rushed meals don’t have to be bland. Spoon up Miso Soup for fresh flavor that’s ready in minutes. Great with sushi rolls or on its own. Slurps disappear in no time. It’s always a welcome change at the table.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

White Bean Soup

A bowl of hearty white bean soup topped with melted cheese and a slice of toasted bread, garnished with fresh parsley.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Need a fast dinner that still feels like home? Serve White Bean Soup for a bowl full of comfort and protein. The texture keeps everyone coming back for more. Pairs well with hardy bread. Quick to make and fills you up.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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