17 Easy Soup and Stew Recipes You’re Probably Overlooking

We all need quick, reliable meals that don’t take much effort but still feel like a real dinner. These soups and stews are the kind of recipes that make life easier. They come together in one pot with simple ingredients and big flavor without the hassle. If you’ve been stuck making the same things over and over, it’s time to switch things up with options you might not have considered before.

Kale Potato and Sausage Soup

This soup brings together hearty potatoes, flavorful sausage, and kale for a well-rounded meal that’s easy to put together on a busy evening. Everything simmers in one pot, letting the ingredients blend without requiring much attention. The combination of protein, greens, and starch makes it a great choice when you need something simple yet filling. If you're looking for something beyond the usual go-to options, this one deserves a spot in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Kale Potato and Sausage Soup

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Skip the extra steps of rolling and stuffing cabbage by making this hands-off version in your slow cooker. It delivers the same flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but in a way that’s easier to prepare and serve. Ground meat, rice, and cabbage cook slowly, creating a rich broth that brings everything together. This is a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

Low Carb Pizza Soup

This soup packs all the flavors of a pizza without needing to turn on the oven. A mix of Italian sausage, tomatoes, and cheese makes it a warm and hearty option that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s an easy alternative when you’re craving something different but don’t want the effort of baking. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup just as simple as the preparation.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Pizza Soup

Tomato Egg Drop Soup

This simple soup comes together in minutes, making it ideal for a last-minute meal. The combination of silky egg ribbons and a light tomato broth creates a comforting dish that doesn’t require many ingredients. It's a great alternative when you need something warm but don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can make a bowl that feels effortless yet still hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Egg Drop Soup

Chicken Corn Chowder

This thick, creamy chowder is packed with corn, tender chicken, and potatoes for a meal that feels hearty without being complicated. It’s an easy option when you want something warm and comforting but don’t have time for a long prep process. The mix of flavors works well for any season, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers. If you’ve been skipping over chowders, this one is worth trying for a simple yet filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Chowder

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A rich and creamy bisque doesn’t have to be complicated, and this one proves it with a straightforward approach. Shrimp and corn create a balanced flavor, while the creamy broth pulls everything together without a lot of extra steps. It’s a great way to bring a seafood dish into your meal plan without extra fuss. Whether served as a main course or a starter, it’s a simple way to add variety to your weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

This soup is proof that a handful of vegetables and a slow cooker can create something comforting with little effort. The broth develops deep flavor over time, while the vegetables soften into a hearty, satisfying mix. It’s an easy way to make use of whatever produce you have on hand without much prep. Letting everything cook throughout the day means you can come home to a ready-made meal with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup

Fish Stew with Chorizo

This stew brings together flaky fish and smoky chorizo in a way that feels effortless but still full of flavor. The broth develops a rich depth without needing hours on the stove, making it an easy option for a weeknight dinner. A mix of seafood and spices gives it a bold taste that’s different from more common soup choices. It’s a great way to change up your routine while still keeping things simple.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stew with Chorizo

Crock Pot Chili for Two

This smaller-batch chili is perfect when you want a home-cooked meal without making too much. Everything simmers in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to develop while you focus on other things. The mix of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a comforting bowl that requires minimal effort. It’s a great option for nights when you need something easy but still filling.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Adding sausage to minestrone gives this classic vegetable soup a boost of flavor and protein. The broth is rich but not heavy, making it a great choice for any season. Beans, pasta, and vegetables come together for a complete meal in one pot. If you’re looking for a way to switch up traditional minestrone, this version is worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This bright and comforting soup uses lemon and eggs to create a smooth, creamy texture without dairy. The combination of tender chicken, rice, and a rich broth makes it a great alternative to heavier soups. It’s simple to prepare but still feels different from the usual options. The light yet filling nature of this dish makes it perfect for any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Crock Pot Tomato Soup

A homemade tomato soup that cooks itself in the slow cooker is a great way to get a warm meal on the table with minimal effort. The slow cooking process brings out a deeper flavor in the tomatoes, creating a smooth and rich broth. It’s a step up from store-bought versions while still being incredibly simple. Whether paired with a sandwich or enjoyed on its own, this is a great way to bring homemade soup into your routine.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Tomato Soup

Easy Beef Stew

A classic beef stew doesn’t have to take all day, and this version keeps things simple while still delivering a hearty meal. The beef becomes tender as it cooks, while the vegetables soak up the rich flavors of the broth. It’s a great option when you need something warm and filling without a complicated prep process. With everything cooking in one pot, cleanup is just as easy as making it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Broccoli Cheese Soup

This creamy soup is a great way to turn a few basic ingredients into something warm and comforting. The blend of broccoli and cheese creates a smooth texture that works well as a main dish or a side. It comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight. If you’ve been overlooking this classic, it’s worth adding back to your rotation for an easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup brings together tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy broth for a meal that feels comforting without being heavy. It’s an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a well-rounded dish with minimal effort. The gnocchi add a unique texture that sets it apart from more common soup choices. It’s a great alternative when you want something different but still easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Navy Bean and Ham Soup

This soup makes good use of pantry staples and leftover ham to create a hearty, flavorful meal. The beans become tender as they cook, absorbing the smoky taste of the ham for a rich broth. It’s a great way to make something filling with little hands-on work. With everything cooking in one pot, the process is simple from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Navy Bean and Ham Soup

Easy Potato Soup

This soup keeps things simple with a short ingredient list and a straightforward approach. The potatoes break down into a creamy texture that’s warm and filling without being overly rich. It’s a great choice when you need a quick, no-fuss meal that still feels homemade. Whether served on its own or with toppings, it’s an easy addition to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Easy Potato Soup