7 Cozy Soup Recipes You Need

No matter its cultural heritage, soup is the epitome of cozy, nourishing food.

From the aromatic depths of brothy brisket-and-noodle pho to the fortifying warmth of a sausage-infused lentil soup, a steaming bowl is the ideal meal for chilly days. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or stocking your freezer for busy nights ahead, these seven recipes offer a tasty way to savor the season. So, pull out your biggest soup pot—our 10-quart or 12-quart stock pots are ideal for big batches—and, if time allows, get a batch of homemade broth simmering to maximize flavor.

For the meal preppers among us, ladle leftovers into single-portion containers for easy work lunches, or family-size containers to keep weeknight dinners stress-free. Comforting, delicious and endlessly versatile, these soups are your go-tos for warmth and flavor this season.

1. German Lentil Soup with Sausage (Linsensuppe mit Würstchen)

If there’s one country that knows about hearty food that sticks to the bones in cold weather, it’s Germany. Take a page from its kochbuch with this simple lentil soup. You’ll start with a base of butter-softened onions, leeks and root vegetables before adding lentils and rounds of cooked sausage to make a dreamy dish for short nights and chilly weather. Stretch leftovers by ladling them over warm brown rice and topping with slices of avocado.

Get the recipe for German Lentil Soup with Sausage (Linsensuppe mit Würstchen).

2. Pozole Rojo

A winter favorite in Mexico, pozole rojo is a festive, versatile dish ideal for holiday tables or casual gatherings. Serve this richly flavored hominy-and-pork soup straight from the pot and let guests top their bowls with shredded lettuce, radishes, tostadas, avocado or a squeeze of lime.

Get the recipe for Pozole Rojo.

3. Big-Batch Matzo Ball Soup

When it comes to matzo ball soup, “big-batch” might seem redundant: Why would you want anything other than the maximum amount possible? Our version opts for chicken thighs rather than breasts for the most tender bites of meat alongside matzoh balls that could rival your bubbe’s. (Good news for gluten-free eaters: Our version includes a GF-friendly option.)

Get the recipe for Big Batch Matzo Ball Soup.

4. Brisket Pho

Homemade pho takes time, but the result is worth every moment. This aromatic broth, made by simmering blanched bones and tender brisket, comes with noodles and a vibrant array of toppings. Think: mung bean sprouts, Thai basil and lime. Customize each bowl with hoisin, sriracha and fish sauce.

Get the recipe for Brisket Pho.

5. Grilled Cottage Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup

Tomato soup and grilled cheese are a match made in comfort-food heaven. Jake Cohen’s version employs cherry and canned tomatoes for unmatched depth, pairing it with a dill-flecked cottage cheese sandwich. 

Get the recipe for Grilled Cottage Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup.

6. Kimchi and Tofu Soup

If you grew up eating your halmeoni’s jjigae and want to recreate the spicy, bracing complexity of this classic kimchi and tofu soup, this version is up to the task. The spicy broth features gochujang, gochugaru and kimchi for a triple dose of heat, while soy sauce, fish sauce and sesame oil add richness and umami. If you prefer a meat-free version—the recipe features slices of pork belly—simply skip it. Between the zucchini, mushrooms and tofu, it’s hearty enough to be a vegetarian meal.

Get the recipe for Kimchi and Tofu Soup.

7. Big-Batch Chicken Noodle Soup

This timeless favorite starts with tender poached chicken and egg noodles, resulting in a bowlful of cozy perfection. Ideal for meal-prepping or sharing with loved ones, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all winter long. Serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits for the ultimate comfort food meal.

Get the recipe for Big Batch Chicken Noodle Soup.

Cozy season has never tasted so good.