In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to find meals that are not only cheap and easy to make but also delicious and nutritious. Cheap soups are the perfect solution for those looking for a hearty and healthy meal on a budget. Packed with flavors and nourishing ingredients, soups can be made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
This article will highlight some of the best cheap soups and provide tips on how to make them.
Best Cheap Soups and How to Make Them
Here easy soup recipes you make at your own home:
1. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a classic dish that is both budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is full of flavor and can be easily customized to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lentils
– 6 cups water or vegetable broth or beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cumin, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the lentils and water or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
2. Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is an easy and affordable dish that is perfect for cold winter days. With just a few simple ingredients, this creamy potato soup recipe and comforting soup can be whipped up in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– ½ cup heavy cream or milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream or milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round. This simple and budget-friendly soup is full of flavor and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, basil, and oregano, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or milk for a creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a timeless dish that is not only comforting but also easy on the wallet. This classic soup is perfect for using up leftover chicken and can be made with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a versatile and budget-friendly dish that can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and beans. This hearty soup is full of flavor and can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried
basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup uncooked small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, basil, and oregano, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, zucchini, and white beans to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to package directions.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a budget-friendly and nutritious dish that is perfect for using up leftover ham. This hearty soup is full of flavor and can be easily made with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed
– 6 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced ham (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the split peas, water or chicken broth, and diced ham (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
7. Broccoli Cheese Soup
Broccoli cheese soup is a creamy and delicious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this budget-friendly soup is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream or milk
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the flour to the pot and stir to combine with the butter, onion, and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to incorporate the roux to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or milk and heat the soup until warmed through, but do not let it boil.
7. Gradually add the grated cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring until it is melted and well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender for a smoother consistency.
Serve this delicious broccoli cheese soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This budget-friendly soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
8. Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is a simple and inexpensive Chinese dish that comes together quickly and easily. This light and flavorful soup is perfect as a starter or a light meal on its own. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and budget-friendly soup that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons cold water
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper if not available)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cooked and chopped chicken, tofu, or mushrooms
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Set aside.
2. In a large soup pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the broth to return to a gentle boil and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. While stirring the broth in a circular motion, slowly pour the beaten eggs into the pot. The eggs will cook almost instantly and create delicate strands in the soup.
5. Add the ground white pepper and salt to taste. If using, stir in the cooked chicken, tofu, or mushrooms to warm through.
6. Garnish the soup with thinly sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Egg drop soup is a versatile dish that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients or seasonings. For a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition. Enjoy this budget-friendly and delicious soup as a warm and comforting meal any time of the year.
9. Butternut Squash & Cauliflower Soup
Butternut squash and cauliflower soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the creamy texture of cauliflower. This budget-friendly soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day and can be easily made with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the butternut squash, cauliflower, and vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the butternut squash and cauliflower are tender.
4. Turn off the heat and use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If using a regular blender, be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending and blend in batches if necessary.
5. Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reheat the soup gently if needed.
Serve this delicious and budget-friendly butternut squash and cauliflower soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash combined with the creamy texture of the cauliflower creates a rich and comforting soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Instant Pot Soup Recipes
In today’s fast-paced world, we all need a few tricks up our sleeves to whip up delicious meals in a jiffy. That’s where the Instant Pot comes to the rescue! If you’re looking for a way to enjoy tasty and cheap soups without spending hours in the kitchen, these Instant Pot soup recipes are your answer.
Our Instant Pot soup recipes offer a range of options beyond what we’ve covered in this article. From hearty chili to low-calorie sweet soups, you’ll find budget-friendly recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. The Instant Pot’s efficiency allows you to create satisfying soups with minimal effort, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal and less time stressing in the kitchen.
For those looking to incorporate more variety into their meal plans, consider pairing these Instant Pot soup recipes with low-cost salads. Combining a bowl of warm, flavorful soup with a refreshing salad makes for a well-balanced and economical meal. It’s a perfect way to stay within your budget while savoring a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
Budget-Friendly Instant Pot Soups
When it comes to cheap and hearty soups, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. These budget-friendly Instant Pot soups are not only delicious but also incredibly easy on the wallet. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or eager to experiment with new flavors, there’s an Instant Pot soup recipe to suit your tastes.
From savory chili to sweet and comforting soups, you can enjoy a diverse range of flavors without breaking the bank. The Instant Pot’s versatility and speed make it the perfect tool for whipping up soups that are both low in cost and high in flavor.
To make your budget-friendly Instant Pot soup even more wholesome, consider serving it alongside low-cost salads. These salads can complement the flavors of your soup while providing a healthy dose of greens and vegetables. It’s a winning combination that ensures your meal remains nutritious, budget-friendly, and satisfying.
Cheap Soups Conclusion
In conclusion, budget friendly soup recipes are an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly and nutritious homemade soup. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious and hearty soup that will satisfy your taste buds and keep your wallet happy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique and flavorful soup recipes.
When diving into the world of affordable and delicious soups, it’s also essential to consider other healthy and budget-friendly meal options. For instance, fermented foods are a fantastic addition to your diet, offering benefits that extend beyond just gut health. If you’re curious about how fermented foods can complement your soup-making adventures, check out our detailed guide on the topic here.
Additionally, pairing your soups with cruciferous vegetables can boost your meal’s nutritional value. Discover more about the benefits of these power-packed veggies and how they can elevate your soups to the next level here.
If you’re looking for versatile ingredients to incorporate into your soups, tofu is a great option, offering a plant-based protein source that works beautifully in various soup recipes. Learn how to make the most of tofu in your cooking by exploring our tips and tricks here.
Moreover, if you’re considering meal prepping or planning for busy weeks, you might want to explore freezing techniques for ingredients like pureed avocado, which can be a handy addition to creamy soups. Get all the details on how to freeze avocado effectively here. Lastly, if your soup recipes include a dash of citrus, you’ll definitely want to know how to store limes properly for future use. Find out the best methods for freezing limes here to ensure you always have this zesty ingredient on hand.