What's more comforting than soup when you're feeling sick? From soothing chicken soups to broths loaded with beans or rice, these are our best soups for a cold to help you feel better.
35 Best Soups for a Cold (So You Can Feel Better Fast!)
1/35
Pasta Fagioli Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband enjoys my version of this soup so much that he stopped ordering it at restaurants. He’d rather savor the version we can have at home. It’s so easy to make, yet hearty enough to be a full dinner. —Brenda Thomas, Springfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 228 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
2/35
Chicken Noodle Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My first Wisconsin winter was so cold, all I wanted to eat was homemade chicken noodle soup. Of all the chicken noodle soup recipes out there, this type of soup is my favorite and is in heavy rotation from November to April. It has many incredibly devoted fans.—Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 239 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1176mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
3/35
Lemony Turkey Rice Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
While growing up in Texas, I spent a lot of time helping my grandma cook. Lemon and cilantro add a deliciously different twist to turkey soup.
—Margarita Cuellar, East Chicago, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 166 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 1047mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
4/35
Greek Tomato Soup with Orzo
From the Recipe Creator:
My recipe for manestra, which means orzo in Greek, is effortless and very easy to make. You need only a few steps to transform simple ingredients into a creamy one-pot wonder. —Kiki Vagianos, Melrose, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 299 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 882mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 12g fiber), 11g protein.
5/35
Carrot Ginger Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This light, flavorful carrot ginger soup is vegan. It's made with pantry staples and comes together in a hurry, yet it always seems to impress. Fresh ginger makes a big difference—and what isn't used can be wrapped tightly and tossed in the freezer for later use. —Jenna Olson, Manchester, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 80 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 551mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
6/35
Bean Counter Chowder
From the Recipe Creator:
This hearty chowder is one of our favorite vegetarian dishes. Loaded with beans, noodles and bright herbs, it's so comforting on a chilly day. —Vivian Haen, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 196 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 676mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
7/35
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
A good friend made us this rich, comforting soup after the birth of our son. It was such a help to have dinner taken care of until I was back on my feet. This yummy dish is so simple to fix that now I give a pot of it (along with the recipe) to other new mothers. —Joanna Sargent, Sandy, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 218 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 980mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
8/35
Italian Veggie Beef Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My sweet father-in-law, Pop Pop, would bring this chunky soup to our house when we were under the weather. We like it so much, we take it to our own friends who need comfort. It always does the trick. —Sue Webb, Reisterstown, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 159 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 646mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
9/35
Vietnamese Chicken Meatball Soup with Bok Choy
From the Recipe Creator:
Throughout Vietnam there are many kinds of soups, called canh, served all year long. I particularly love having this warm, flavorful bowl of Vietnamese chicken soup on laid-back weekends, but it's also great packed in a thermos for lunch. It's the perfect bok choy soup too! —Brenda Watts, Gaffney, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 147 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 836mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
10/35
Great Northern Bean Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
This thick and hearty stew with great northern beans is sure to chase the winter chills away. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 274 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 937mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 8g fiber), 11g protein.
11/35
Creamy Cauliflower Pakora Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I often crave pakoras, deep-fried fritters from India. I wanted to get the same flavors but use a healthier cooking technique, so I made soup using all the classic spices and our favorite veggie, cauliflower! —Melody Johnson, DePere, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 135 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 645mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
12/35
Beef Lentil Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
You can prepare this soup as the main course in a hearty lunch or dinner. On cold winter evenings here in New England, I've often enjoyed sipping a steaming mugful in front of our fireplacel. —Guy Turnbull, Arlington, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 314 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 starch.
13/35
Beef Vegetable Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This nicely seasoned soup tastes so good. It's convenient, too, since it simmers all day in the slow cooker. —Jean Hutzell, Dubuque, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 217 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 536mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
14/35
White Bean Soup with Escarole
From the Recipe Creator:
Pantry staples make this healthy soup oh, so simple to prepare. When I can't find escarole, I use fresh spinach. Just add to the soup pot moments before serving. —Gina Samokar, North Haven, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup soup with 1-1/2 teaspoons cheese: 174 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 572mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 8g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
15/35
Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Frequently requested at family get-togethers, this rich and hearty soup is ready in a flash. Cooking for a vegetarian? Swap in vegetable stock for the beef broth. —Danielle Noble, Ft. Thomas, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 399 calories, 26g fat (14g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 803mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
16/35
Split Pea Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
The old-fashioned favorite is a snap to make, and it's economical too. Carrots, celery and onion accent the subtle flavor of the split peas, while a ham bone adds a meaty touch to this hearty soup. It's sure to chase away autumn's chill. —Laurie Todd, Columbus, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 202 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 267mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 12g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat.
17/35
Slow-Cooked Chicken Enchilada Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This soup delivers a big bowl of fresh comfort—just ask my husband. Toppings like avocado, sour cream and tortilla strips are a must. —Heather Sewell, Harrisonville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without optional toppings): 125 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 1102mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
18/35
Coconut Curry Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Similar to a Vietnamese pho rice noodle soup, this red coconut curry chicken soup packs big flavor and a bit of heat. The crisp raw vegetables help cool things down. —Monnie Norasing, Mansfield, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 601 calories, 34g fat (26g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 1722mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein.
19/35
Spinach Tortellini Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
A simple tomato-enhanced broth is perfect for cheese tortellini and fresh spinach. Increase the garlic and add Italian seasoning to suit your taste. —Debbie Wilson, Burlington, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 164 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 799mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
20/35
The South in a Pot Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
With black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, ground beef and comforting spices, this soup has every wonderful memory from my childhood simmered together in one tasty pot. —Stephanie Rabbitt-Schapp, Cincinnati, OH
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 267 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 544mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
21/35
Spinach Beef Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
My idea of a winning weeknight meal is this beefy soup simmering in one big pot. Grate some Parmesan and pass the saltines. —Julie Davis, Jacksonville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 258 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 909mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
22/35
Butternut Squash Apple Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Brighten blustery gray days with steaming bowlfuls of butternut squash apple soup that's the color of California sunshine. It's velvety, rich and slightly sweet! This low-fat recipe's a keeper. —Jane Shapton, Irvine, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 172 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 613mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 9g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
23/35
Chicken Barley Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
No question—this is my favorite barley soup! It's so filling that I serve it as a hearty main dish, and I have given the recipe to many of our friends and relatives. It simply tastes too good to keep to yourself! —Diana Costello, Marion, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 259 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 127mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
24/35
Maryland Crab Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Try this hearty soup that incorporates the best of vegetable soup and flavorful crab. I break whole crabs and claws into pieces and drop them into the soup to cook, then serve it with saltine crackers and a cold beer. —Freelove Knott, Palm Bay, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 202 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 1111mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 7g fiber), 15g protein.
25/35
Vegetable Lentil Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a healthy slow-cooker soup that's ideal for vegetarians and those watching their weight. Butternut squash and lentils make it hearty, while herbs and other veggies round out the flavor. —Mark Morgan, Waterford, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 217 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 685mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 8g fiber), 11g protein.
26/35
Pozole
From the Recipe Creator:
This spicy stewlike soup is traditionally served in New Mexico at holiday time to celebrate life's blessings, but it's good any time of year. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 333 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1588mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein.
27/35
French Onion Soup with Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
I got the idea for how to make this soup after I went to a brewhouse restaurant that put ale in their gravy. I make this every time the weather starts to cool down in the fall—it's comfort food for the soul. —Crystal Holsinger, Surprise, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 403 calories, 26g fat (14g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 1760mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
28/35
Roasted Autumn Vegetable Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Roasting sweet potatoes, carrots and parsnips brings out their best features. Blend them, and you have a warm, healthy soup for a cool fall night. —Stephanie Flaming, Woodland, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 240 calories, 6g fat (0 saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 1251mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 7g fiber), 6g protein.
29/35
Arborio Rice and White Bean Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Soup is the ultimate comfort food. This hearty, satisfying soup with arborio rice is low in fat and comes together in less than 30 minutes. —Deanna McDonald, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 303 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 861mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 9g protein.
30/35
Creamy Sweet Potato and Veggie Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
I tasted a delicious soup in a restaurant but couldn't persuade the chef to share the recipe, so I began to experiment on my own. Finally, I came up with this blend, which is very close to what I tasted—maybe even better! —Audrey Nemeth, Mount Vernon, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 137 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 839mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
31/35
Chicken Gnocchi Pesto Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
After tasting a similar soup at a restaurant, I created this quick and tasty version. It’s rich and creamy, and couldn’t be easier to make! —Deanna Smith, Des Moines, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 586 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 158mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 31g protein.
32/35
French Lentil and Carrot Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
It’s crazy how just a few ingredients can make such a difference. Using finely chopped rotisserie chicken in this recipe makes it perfect for a busy weeknight meal, but you can leave the chicken out if you prefer. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 338 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 738mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 7g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable.
33/35
Meaty Mushroom Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
Since our two daughters did not like beans in their chili, I adapted a recipe to suit our whole family's tastes. We all agree that mushrooms are an appealing alternative and go very well with the ground beef and sausage.
—Marjol Burr
Catawba, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 364 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 1189mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein.
34/35
Manhattan Clam Chowder
From the Recipe Creator:
I typically serve this chowder with a tossed salad and hot rolls. It is easy to make and tastes wonderful on a cold winter evening. My family has enjoyed it for more than 30 years. —Joan Hopewell, Columbus, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 91 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 652mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
35/35
Curried Chicken Corn Chowder
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is close to one my mom used to make for us kids when the weather turned cold. Hers called for heavy cream, but I came up with a slimmer version that I think is pretty true to the original! —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 229 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 582mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
Best Soups for a Cold FAQ
What are the best ingredients for homemade, cold-remedy soups?
Soups made with ingredients like chicken, garlic, onions, carrots, ginger and leafy greens are go-tos when you’re feeling under the weather. Ginger may help reduce nausea and soothe a sore throat, which can make it easier to get soup down and stay hydrated, while vegetables like carrots, tomatoes and onions are full of antioxidants and vitamin C for a boost of nutrition. Even though soup may not make a cold go away any faster, the earthy, spicy aromas and bright colors in homemade soups are a treat to the senses.
What nutrient-rich soup ideas can be made ahead?
Soups with lentils, barley and sturdy root vegetables are perfect for make-ahead meals, so one pot can feed you for a few days. If making a big batch of a soup with pasta, make the broth, but wait to add the pasta until heating individual servings, so the noodles don’t swell and fall apart after a day or two in the refrigerator. When you are feeling better, consider making one of these soups that freeze well and stashing them in the freezer for the next time a cold hits.
Can healing soup recipes be made vegetarian?
Yes, many soup recipes for a cold can be made vegetarian without sacrificing warmth or nutrition or are vegetarian from the start. To adjust a recipe with meat, try vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, swap meat for beans, lentils or tofu and consider adding some miso paste or a splash of vinegar, lemon juice or soy sauce for seasoning and brightness. These vegetarian soups still bring the comfort and nutrients you need when a cold has taken over.
