Hearty Soup for Cold Nights – Easy and Comforting

Discover a hearty soup for cold nights that warms you up and satisfies. Perfect for cozy dinners, this soup recipe is simple to make and delicious.

Hearty Soup for Cold Nights

When temperatures drop, nothing beats a warm bowl of hearty soup for cold nights. This comforting soup combines fresh vegetables, protein, and rich broth to keep you cozy and full. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or planning an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is a welcoming choice. It’s simple to prepare and packs flavor with each spoonful.

If you enjoy this soup, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and One-Pot Meals for more simple recipes that save time and effort.

Why You’ll Love It

This soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold nights. It’s nourishing, filling, and customizable—you can add your favorite veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a great leftover-friendly option.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil (can substitute with avocado oil or butter)
• 1 onion, diced (yellow or white)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh preferred)
• 3 carrots, sliced (can use baby carrots or parsnips)
• 2 celery stalks, sliced (adds crunch and flavor)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional; can omit for vegetarian)
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed (red or green)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or use fresh)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (fresh or frozen)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. If using, add ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking up any clumps.
4. Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the rinsed lentils, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.

Expert Tips

For a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. If the soup gets too thick, simply add more broth or water. Use dried herbs for this recipe, but fresh herbs can be added at the end for brighter flavor. When making ahead, keep the greens separate and add just before reheating to preserve their color and texture.

Storage

Store leftover hearty soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Variations

• Vegan: Omit meat and use vegetable broth only.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check broth labels.
• Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free, no changes needed.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.

FAQ

Can I make this hearty soup for cold nights in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the veggies and meat, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until lentils and vegetables are tender.

How do I store leftovers of this soup?

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute other legumes for lentils?

Absolutely! Split peas or small beans can work, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this hearty soup for cold nights also good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and makes for satisfying lunch or dinner leftovers.

What ingredients provide the heartiness in the soup?

The lentils, ground meat, and vegetables combine to create a filling and nutritious meal.

We’d love to hear how your soup turns out—please leave a comment, rate this recipe, and share it with friends!