16 Soups and Stews That Make Winter Worth It

When the weather turns cold, I always find myself craving a big pot of something warm and hearty. Soups and stews have a way of making the kitchen feel cozier and dinner feel easier, all while using simple ingredients. That's why I've pulled together some of my favorites that make winter meals something to look forward to.

Chicken Corn Chowder

This hearty chowder comes together with tender chicken and sweet corn for a bowl that feels perfect on a cold evening. It's simple enough to make on a weeknight yet filling enough to count as a full meal. The creamy texture makes it extra comforting, which is exactly what you want when the weather turns chilly. It's a dependable recipe that doesn't take hours in the kitchen. That's why it's a great choice for making winter feel a little warmer.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Chowder

Navy Bean and Ham Soup

A big pot of this soup is a classic way to use up leftover ham and turn it into something cozy and filling. The beans cook down into a hearty base that pairs so well with smoky ham. It's a budget-friendly option that stretches a small amount of meat into a full meal. This soup works well for family dinners since it reheats beautifully. Meals like this are exactly what makes cold-weather cooking so enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

Easy Beef Stew

Beef stew is one of those meals that feels like it cooks itself once you get it started. The beef turns tender, and the vegetables soak up all the flavor, making it worth the time it simmers. It's an easy dinner to set up earlier in the day so it's ready when you want it. The leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day. That's the kind of comfort food that keeps winter from feeling too long.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Crock Pot Chili for Two

This chili is portioned just right when you don't need to feed a crowd but still want something hearty. The slow cooker does most of the work, so you can go about your day without worrying. It's loaded with beans, meat, and spices that blend together while it cooks. Since it makes the right amount, you won't be swimming in leftovers. Meals like this make cold nights much easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

This minestrone adds sausage to the mix, giving it a little more richness and heartiness. It's packed with vegetables and pasta, making it feel like a full meal in one bowl. The recipe is simple to pull together and works well for busy nights. It also reheats nicely, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day. That kind of one-pot dinner is exactly what makes winter cooking worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

With bright lemon flavor and tender chicken, this soup feels fresh while still being cozy. The rice makes it filling enough to serve as a full meal. It's quick to put together and doesn't require many ingredients. The tangy broth is perfect for cutting through those heavy winter dishes. Meals like this bring a welcome change of pace when the weather is cold.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Tomato soup made in the slow cooker couldn't be easier, and it has that homemade taste you can't get from a can. The long cooking time deepens the flavor without extra effort from you. It pairs well with bread or a sandwich, making it versatile for weeknight dinners. This recipe is also easy to double if you want extra for later. That kind of fuss-free comfort food makes winter days more bearable.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

This vegetable stew is loaded with hearty vegetables simmered together until tender. It's a meatless option that still feels filling and wholesome. The flavors improve as it sits, making it great for leftovers. It's a straightforward recipe that doesn't require hard-to-find ingredients. Meals like this remind you why winter is such a good time for stews.
Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

This soup is an easy way to get a big batch of warm, comforting food with very little effort. The slow cooker does the work, and you end up with tender vegetables in a flavorful broth. It's light but still filling enough for lunch or dinner. It reheats and freezes well, so nothing goes to waste. That's the kind of cooking that makes the colder months much easier.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Soft gnocchi, tender chicken, and a creamy broth make this soup feel extra cozy. It's hearty enough to serve on its own, and it comes together without much fuss. The flavors balance comfort with just a touch of richness. It's also a recipe the whole family can enjoy. That's exactly the kind of meal that keeps winter from feeling dull.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Fish Stew with Chorizo

This stew mixes tender fish with smoky chorizo for a bold and warming combination. It's a hearty dish that works well for dinner when you want something different from the usual. The broth is rich and flavorful without taking hours to make. It's a recipe that feels special but doesn't require complicated steps. Meals like this are what make winter cooking exciting.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup is simple, filling, and made almost entirely by the slow cooker. The long simmer gives the vegetables a deep, comforting flavor. It's budget-friendly and easy to stretch into multiple meals. The light broth makes it a nice change from heavier dishes. That's why it's a great go-to option during the colder months.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Cabbage Soup

Creamy Yellow Squash Soup

Yellow squash blends into a smooth and creamy soup that's both warm and light. It comes together quickly, making it easy for weeknight dinners. The flavor is mild, so it pairs well with bread or sandwiches. Leftovers can be stored for later, making it practical as well. Soups like this are the reason winter meals feel so comforting.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Yellow Squash Soup

Broccoli Cheese Soup

This soup is loaded with broccoli and cheese, giving it a rich and hearty feel. It's quick to prepare and makes a complete meal with just a slice of bread. The creamy texture makes it especially comforting on a cold night. It's also a family favorite that both kids and adults enjoy. Meals like this make winter something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Easy Potato Soup

Potato soup is a classic for good reason-it's hearty, creamy, and simple to prepare. The recipe doesn't need much time or effort, making it great for busy days. It's filling enough to serve as the main dish without needing sides. The leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy it more than once. Comforting bowls like this are why cold weather cooking is so enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Potato Soup

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

This bisque blends shrimp and sweet corn in a creamy base that feels special enough for company but simple enough for weeknights. It cooks in a reasonable amount of time without needing constant attention. The flavors come together in a way that feels hearty without being too heavy. It's a nice change from more common winter soups. That's the kind of recipe that makes chilly days feel a little brighter.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque