17 Christmas Soup Ideas That Let Everyone Pretend They’re Pacing Themselves

ByMandy Applegate

Bringing together 17 Christmas soup ideas gives you options for gatherings where no one wants to feel too full too soon. Many people like to balance rich main courses with something simple and soothing. Soup can be the right call for casual lunches or an easy dinner as the holidays get busier.

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

Velvety 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.
Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chilly winter nights become memorable with this Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup warming the bowls. Guests tend to pause and smile after that first creamy spoonful, wondering how a soup can feel so cozy. I love serving it before a big holiday meal because it starts things off light but comforting. Bright color also makes the table look festive.
Get the Recipe: Velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Comforting Turkey Soup

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

Leftover turkey gets a second chance with this Comforting Turkey Soup that’s perfect for the season. Steam rises in the kitchen, bringing everyone closer together. I pour extra broth into mugs for folks just in from the cold. This soup quickly turns into the warm hug everyone hopes to find near Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup

Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

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

Tiny meatballs and tender greens fill this Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup with old-fashioned comfort. People seem surprised by each bite’s mix of flavors and love coming back for seconds. I set the slow cooker early so dinner is ready just when guests arrive. Every bowl brings a little calm to busy holiday evenings.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Chunky 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.
Chunky Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lots of veggies crowd together in this Chunky Vegetable Soup, offering a healthy start to any winter feast. Guests scoop up ladles of color that stand out among heavier Christmas dishes. I prefer making large batches ahead of time since they reheat easily for round two. Even picky eaters end up trying a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Vegetable 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.

Smooth comfort shines in this Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup, perfect when folks want something rich but not too heavy. Steam curling upward invites everyone to hurry to the table. I serve cheesy soup on snowy afternoons when extra warmth is needed. Kids get curious about the bright green color and keep dipping their bread for more.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy Broccoli Soup

Hearty Lentil Soup

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

Old-fashioned goodness shows up every time a pot of this Hearty Lentil Soup appears during the holidays. Each bowl is filling yet lighter than other Christmas fare, landing just right between courses. I rely on lentil soup when I need energy to tackle long afternoons. Friends appreciate how it leaves space for dessert later.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Lentil Soup

Clam Chowder

A bowl of creamy soup with clams, bacon, chopped green onions, and parsley, placed on a pink surface next to a spoon and some fresh herbs.
Clam Chowder. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy, briny flavors swirl together in this Clam Chowder beloved at winter gatherings. A sprinkle of herbs turns each bowl into a moment worth taking slowly. I ladle out chowder for big crowds since it feels special but is easy to serve. Bringing out soup first lets people save room for all the other holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Clam Chowder

Ham and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with potatoes, corn, carrots, and fresh parsley, served with a metal spoon.
Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smoky ham lifts this Ham and Potato Soup with comfort people crave when colder months hit. Creamy potatoes turn it into a filling option that everyone can enjoy. I make sure there’s extra for anyone running in late from holiday errands. Each bite brings both tradition and warmth to the table.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Soup

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.

Color glows from every spoonful with this Roasted Tomato Soup, which pairs well with winter sandwiches or crispy bread. Guests appreciate the lively flavor that refreshes the palate before the main meal. I bring out tomato soup for lively lunches with friends or family. The recipe always sparks memories of simple, happy moments amid the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Soup

Hearty 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.
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smoky beans and savory chunks fill this Hearty Ham and Bean Soup, promising comfort after chilly outdoor adventures. Each bowl helps guests pause and recharge before moving on to rich Christmas foods. I always keep a pot handy for those who arrive hungry from shopping or winter fun. Soup like this brings people together again and again.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

Creamy Leek and Potato Soup

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

Soft texture and mild flavor help this Creamy Leek and Potato Soup ease everyone into Christmas gatherings. Gentle aroma invites relaxed conversation around the table. I rely on this choice when I want a simple start to a busy evening. Even skeptics are tempted to taste, and many ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Leek and Potato Soup

Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of creamy soup with gnocchi, spinach, carrots, celery, chunks of chicken, and black pepper, with a spoon inside.
Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pillowy dumplings turn this Gnocchi Soup into a fun surprise for anyone craving new flavors at Christmastime. The heartiness makes it ideal for lunch before a busy afternoon. I get lots of smiles when guests discover the comforting texture inside their bowl. No need to rush—this soup rewards patience and good company.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi Soup

Hearty Potato Soup

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

Stick-to-your-ribs warmth defines this Hearty Potato Soup that’s well-loved during December celebrations. Creamy spoonfuls keep hunger at bay without spoiling room for richer dishes later. I find this soup works wonders when the weather outside is harsh. Everyone at the table relaxes after a steamy serving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Potato Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup

A bowl of chicken and rice soup with chunks of chicken, diced carrots, celery, and parsley garnish, served with a spoon.
Italian Penicillin Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cold season meets its match with this Italian Penicillin Soup, often called a miracle dish for winter sniffles. Steam fills the room, promising comfort and a boost of energy. I serve this soup before the banquet to help guests pace themselves. Simple ingredients create flavor that feels both familiar and special.
Get the Recipe: Italian Penicillin Soup

Ham and Split Pea Soup

A bowl of split pea soup with chunks of ham, diced carrots, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside.
Ham and Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Thick, green comfort packs every bowl of this Ham and Split Pea Soup for hearty, slow eating. Smoky pea soup calls people to gather around the kitchen between lively holiday games. I prepare extra so it’s ready whenever a chill sets in. Guests rave about the lasting fullness it provides.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

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

Tender meat and chunky veggies make this Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup a stick-to-your-ribs favorite at winter events. I see guests settle in and linger at the table, feeling satisfied but never too full. Aromas fill the house long before the pot is served. Soup like this helps people slow down and enjoy the moment in the middle of the season.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Creamy Mushroom Soup

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

Earthy mushrooms and smooth texture stand out in this Creamy Mushroom Soup, perfect for cold holiday nights. Guests marvel at how each bite feels hearty yet elegant. I use mushrooms to kick off a meal that’s all about comfort and small surprises. Soup on the menu always signals a thoughtful start to Christmas dinners.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom 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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