58 Christmas Soups to Cozy Up to This Holiday

Cozy up against the winter cold with a few of these Christmas soups. You'll want to ladle up bowl after bowl!

When the weather is cold and the days are busy, there’s no better way to warm up and wind down than with a bowl of homemade soup. So why not bring that coziness to your Christmas dinner? These Christmas soups are full of seasonal ingredients and bold flavors, making them the best addition to your holiday meal.

In this collection, you’ll find Christmas soup ideas for every menu. Creamy yet light vegetable bisques are ideal first-course options, while heartier recipes, like Italian wedding, spinach tortellini and broccoli cheddar soup, can be the main dish at a casual Christmas Eve dinner. There are plenty of seafood soups for the Feast of the Seven Fishes and soups from around the world, like pho, pozole, tom kha gai and avgolemono, for those looking for global cuisine.

Many of these Christmas soup recipes can be made before your holiday celebration, freeing up some of your limited prep time. Whether soup is a staple on your menu or you’re looking to shake things up, these Christmas soups are the perfect addition to your festive meal.

1/58

French Onion Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:2 hours 20 min
Servings:12 (2-1/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Enjoy my signature French onion soup the way my granddaughter Becky does: I make onion soup for her in a crock bowl, complete with garlic croutons and gobs of melted Swiss cheese on top. —Lou Sansevero, Ferron, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup soup with 2 pieces bread and 1 tablespoon cheese: 195 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 765mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
2/58

Christmas Tortellini & Spinach Soup

Total Time:25 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I made this soup for the first time in the summer, but when I saw its bright red and green colors, my first thought was what a perfect Christmas Eve dinner idea! —Marietta Slater, Justin, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 239 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 1135mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 11g protein.
3/58

Cioppino

Total Time:4 hours 40 min
Servings:8 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you're looking for a great seafood recipe for your slow cooker, this classic fish stew is just the ticket. It's brimming with clams, crab, fish and shrimp, and it is fancy enough to be an elegant meal. —Lisa Moriarty, Wilton, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 205 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
4/58

Cheesy Wild Rice Soup

Total Time:30 min
Servings:8 (2qt)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We often eat easy-to-make soups when there's not a lot of time to cook. I replaced the wild rice in the original recipe with a boxed rice mix. This creamy concoction is now a family favorite. —Lisa Hofer, Hitchcock, South Dakota
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 464 calories, 29g fat (14g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1492mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
5/58

Ravioli Soup

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We adore everything pasta, so I used it as the inspiration for this unique soup. The meaty tomato base pairs perfectly with the cheesy ravioli pillows. My family can't get enough of this dish! —Shelley Way, Cheyenne, Wyoming
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 235 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 17g protein.
6/58

Parsnip & Celery Root Bisque

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a simple yet elegant soup for fall and winter. Everyone enjoys the smooth texture and earthy veggies. For a colorful garnish, sprinkle on chives and pomegranate seeds. —Merry Graham, Newhall, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 248 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 904mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein.
7/58

Bacon-Beef Barley Soup

Total Time:7 hours 40 min
Servings:7
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a robust dish that’s perfect for hungry teenagers! Served over creamy mashed potatoes, this quick, comforting soup really hits the spot. —Cathy Peterson, Menominee, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 319 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1218mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein.
8/58

Smoky & Spicy Vegetable Bisque

Total Time:1 hour 30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I like to serve this soup with a side of bruschetta or a caprese salad to make a complete meal. It is also suitable as a first course. Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper to make it more or less spicy, depending on your preference. —Juliana Inhofer, Rocklin, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 157 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 528mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
9/58

Tom Kha Gai

Total Time:40 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This irresistible coconut chicken soup recipe is infused with classic Thai ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, chilies and makrut (or kaffir) lime leaves. It's creamy yet tangy, comforting but light...and simply bursting with flavor. Ladle over jasmine rice and serve with lime wedges and a little hot chili oil if you like. —Malina Syvoravong, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 502 calories, 29g fat (21g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein.
10/58

Autumn Bisque

Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:12 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I like cozy comfort soups that taste creamy—without the cream. This one’s full of good stuff like rutabagas, leeks, fresh herbs and almond milk. —Merry Graham, Newhall, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 146 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 672mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
11/58

Pozole

Total Time:1 hour 20 min
Servings:8 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
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.
12/58

Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder

Total Time:55 min
Servings:12 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is the perfect soup to warm up with on a cold fall or winter day. It makes a big batch perfect for serving a crowd. —Jenna Jackson, Salt Lake City, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 281 calories, 18g fat (11g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 853mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
13/58

Irish Onion Soup

Total Time:1 hour 30 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The inspiration behind this recipe came from my father, who owned a restaurant and created the original dish. This version stars contemporary ingredients but still serves the same popular robust flavor. —Theresa Miller, Sault St. Marie, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup soup with 1 slice cheese toast: 347 calories, 21g fat (11g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1119mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein.
14/58

Lobster Bisque

Total Time:2 hours 20 min
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My grandmother would make lobster bisque all the time, so I've always thought of it as comfort food. If you don't care to cook live lobsters, they can usually be cooked where you buy them. Just be sure to say that you want to keep the shells; they are the key to the most delicious soup! —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 373 calories, 26g fat (17g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 942mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
15/58

Traditional Italian Wedding Soup

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:9 (2-1/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: You don’t have to be Italian to love this easy-to-make soup with tiny round pasta! Homemade meatballs pair beautifully with ready-made stock and rotisserie chicken. —Mary Sheetz, Carmel, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 253 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 797mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
16/58

Snowflake Tomato Soup

Total Time:25 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Your family is bound to dig in to this brimming bowl! The sensational soup packs lots of pleasing ingredients, and is extra fun to eat when you pipe on a sour cream snowflake. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 140 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
17/58

Easy Shrimp and Scallops Ramen Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6 (2-1/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is delicious and so easy to make at home on a weeknight. You can add any vegetables, seafood or meat that you have on hand. —Aleni Salcedo, East Elmhurst, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups: 231 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1603mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein.
18/58

Roasted Red Pepper Soup

Total Time:35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you like cream of tomato soup, try making it with purchased roasted red peppers instead of tomatoes. Using jarred roasted red peppers makes it extra easy, and pureeing the soup in a blender gives it a nice smooth texture. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 135 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 753mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
19/58

Calabrian Holiday Soup

Total Time:3 hours 15 min
Servings:14 (3-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My family is from the Italian region of Calabria; our version of Italian wedding soup has been handed down through the generations. We serve this soup with the Christmas meal as well as at weddings. —Gwen Keefer, Sylvania, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 318 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 120mg cholesterol, 606mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
20/58

Leek Soup with Brie Toasts

Total Time:40 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you're looking for something special to fix on a holiday, look no further. This velvety soup is accented with tarragon, and the toasted bread topped with melted Brie cheese is the crowning touch. —Marie Hattrup, Sparks, Nevada
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 411 calories, 27g fat (16g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 1110mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
21/58

Million Dollar Soup

Total Time:3 hours 20 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Million-dollar soup tastes like a million bucks. It's got a long ingredient list, but it pays off in each decadent, flavorful and hearty spoonful. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 617 calories, 41g fat (21g saturated fat), 133mg cholesterol, 1657mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.
22/58

Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Total Time:30 min
Servings:9 (21/4 qt)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When the weather turns cold, get cozy with a bowl of this butternut squash soup. The cream adds richness, but if you're looking to cut calories, it can be omitted. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 157 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 483mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein.
23/58

Minestrone Soup

Total Time:1 hour 55 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you love vegetables, you'll find this minestrone especially satisfying. Keep the recipe in mind when you have a bounty of fresh garden produce. —Yvonne Krantz, Mount Upton, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 236 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 1329mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 12g protein.
24/58

Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Total Time:6 hours
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Pho is one of Vietnam's most well-known dishes. For many families, the cooking of the dish is a true labor of love and care. With its aromatic broth, slurpable rice noodles and many delicious garnish options, it is very easy to customize a bowl to suit your tastes. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup noodles with 3/4 cup broth and 4 ounces cooked beef: 507 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 1351mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 44g protein.
25/58

Broccoli Beer Cheese Soup

Total Time:50 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Whether you include the beer or not, this soup tastes wonderful. I always make extra and pop individual servings into the freezer. —Lori Lee, Brooksville, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 316 calories, 23g fat (13g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1068mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
26/58

Split Pea Soup

Total Time:2 hours 30 min
Servings:10 (about 2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
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.
27/58

Shrimp Chowder

Total Time:3 hours 45 min
Servings:12 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I simmer my rich and creamy shrimp soup in the slow cooker. Because the chowder is ready in less than four hours, it can be prepared in the afternoon and served to dinner guests that night. —Will Zunio, Gretna, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 202 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 745mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
28/58

Creamy Cauliflower Pakora Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:40 min
Servings:8 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
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.
29/58

Onion Cheese Soup

Total Time:25 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I made a few adjustments to this savory soup recipe I came across in a community cookbook. It's rich, buttery and cheesy, plus it's so quick to prepare. —Janice Pogozelski, Cleveland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 308 calories, 22g fat (15g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 540mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
30/58

Pressure-Cooker Italian Sausage & Kale Soup

Total Time:55 min
Servings:8 (3-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The first time I made this colorful soup, our home smelled wonderful. We knew it was a keeper to see us through cold winter days. —Sarah Stombaugh, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1-3/4 cups: 297 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 1105mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 16g protein.
31/58

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Total Time:40 min
Servings:6 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is a wonderful addition to potlucks, and it comes together so easily! Cauliflower makes a nice, extra creamy backdrop for the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu you can eat with a spoon. —Heidi Der, Stow, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cups: 481 calories, 32g fat (16g saturated fat), 141mg cholesterol, 1254mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 33g protein.
32/58

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:14 (3-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I’m originally from Minnesota, where wild rice grows in abundance and is very popular in recipes. This creamy chicken and wild rice soup has been part of our Christmas Eve menu for years. To save time, I cook the chicken and wild rice and cut up the vegetables the day before. —Virginia Montmarquet, Riverside, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 154 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 807mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
33/58

Vegan Squash Soup with Naan Croutons

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8 ( about 2-3/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This butternut squash soup is so full of flavor that you won't miss the meat or dairy! The added can of pumpkin helps to make the soup creamy and smooth, while the coconut milk adds a light sweetness. I love to make this soup as the seasons change! —Audrey Fell, Nashville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cups: 249 calories, 14g fat (9g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 506mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 7g fiber), 4g protein.
34/58

Moroccan Cauliflower and Almond Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:6 hours 20 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This soup tastes rich and decadent but is really very healthy! Bonus—it is vegan and also makes your house smell amazing! —Barbara Marynowski, Hutto, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 116 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 835mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
35/58

Ribollita

Total Time:40 min
Servings:8 cups (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ribollita, also known as bread soup, is a hearty and flavorful Italian dish that uses up stale bread. If you'd like the bread to have more texture, toast it before stirring it into the soup. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 206 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 806mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 9g protein.
36/58

Instant Pot Clam Chowder

Total Time:45 min
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Clam chowder is especially tasty when it's served with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, bacon crumbles and crispy oyster crackers on top. If you like your chowder on the thick side, add another tablespoon of flour after it is done in the pressure cooker. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 227 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 673mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein.
37/58

Spinach Tortellini Soup

Total Time:20 min
Servings:6 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
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.
38/58

Roasted Parsnip and Pear Soup

Total Time:2 hours
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Although pears and parsnips may seem like an odd combination, the pears bring out the natural sweetness of the parsnips in this winter soup. Don't skip the topping; it's the best part! —Sara Petrie, Grassie, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 358 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 911mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 7g fiber), 4g protein.
39/58

Chicken and Dumplings

Total Time:1 hour 35 min
Servings:8 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Homemade chicken and dumplings from scratch hearken back to my childhood and chilly days when we devoured those cute little balls of dough swimming in hot, rich broth. It's one of those types of soup you'll want to eat again and again. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups: 470 calories, 24g fat (8g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 892mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
40/58

Creamy Seafood Bisque

Total Time:50 min
Servings:8 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This deceptively simple bisque makes a special first course or even a casual meal with a salad or bread. I like to top bowlfuls with shredded Parmesan cheese and green onions. —Wanda Allende, Orlando, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 453 calories, 36g fat (22g saturated fat), 197mg cholesterol, 1232mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
41/58

Ham and Lentil Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:2 hours 30 min
Servings:12 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This lentil soup with ham is a combination of two soup recipes I came across and adapted. I often serve it for Sunday dinner, making enough so there are leftovers for my husband's lunch Thermos. A bricklayer, he regularly works outside during winter. —Andi Haug, Hendrum, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 188 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 672mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 14g protein.
42/58

Avgolemono Soup

Total Time:2 hours 50 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: While avgolemono may be tricky to pronounce if you didn’t grow up eating traditional Greek food, the recipe itself couldn’t be simpler. A quintessential Greek dish, this avgolemono soup is made using pantry staples and results in a meal that’s pure comfort food. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 392 calories, 22g fat (7g saturated fat), 245mg cholesterol, 701mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein.
43/58

Spiced Split Pea Soup

Total Time:8 hours 25 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A hint of curry adds the perfect amount of kick to this family-pleasing soup. Just assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker and go about your day while it cooks. —Sue Mohre, Mount Gilead, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 139 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 347mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 8g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
44/58

Salmon Chowder

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I've lived on a farm in the Yakima Valley all my life. I have a big garden, and by the end of fall, my cellar shelves are full of canned fruits and vegetables. This salmon chowder recipe uses some of the root vegetables I grow—along with the delicious salmon that is so plentiful here. —Josephine Parton, Granger, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 273 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 1060mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
45/58

Chicken and Andouille Gumbo

Contest Winner
Total Time:2 hours 40 min
Servings:9 (3-1/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Gumbo goes back to 1700s Louisiana; today's version is just as hearty using andouille sausage. Serve with cornbread or crusty French bread. —Billy Hensley, Mount Carmel, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups (calculated without rice): 544 calories, 39g fat (9g saturated fat), 175mg cholesterol, 1514mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 39g protein.
46/58

Knoephla Soup

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: While I was growing up, my mom would make this traditional German soup. It tasted so good on chilly fall days. Knoephla (pronounce nip-fla) Soup is still a warm and comforting meal for my family. —Lorraine Meyers, Willow City, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 249 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 762mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
47/58

Brie Mushroom Soup

Total Time:35 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Simmer up the earthy flavor of fresh mushrooms and the richness of Brie cheese in one delicious, creamy soup. I serve big bowlfuls to warm up everyone on chilly days. —Maria Emmerich, River Falls, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 328 calories, 22g fat (14g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 1192mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
48/58

Cream of Asparagus Soup

Total Time:35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We have a large asparagus patch and are able to freeze a lot for the year. My recipe highlights the flavor of the vegetable and is very easy to make. —Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 154 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 585mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat-free milk.
49/58

Slow-Cooked Manhattan Clam Chowder

Total Time:8 hours 10 min
Servings:9 (2-1/4 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this simple, delicious soup years ago when my husband and I both worked. It's easy to dump all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning ... and wonderful to come home to the aroma of a hot dinner ready. —Mary Dixon, Northville, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 80 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 612mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat.
50/58

Creamy Tomato Soup

Total Time:50 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: One spoonful of this classic will take you back to your childhood, sipping warm tomato soup on a cold day. Pair it with a grilled sandwich for a hearty lunch. We suggest grilled cheese! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 252 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 778mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
51/58

Sweet Potato and Crab Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:50 min
Servings:8 (2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This sweet and savory soup is quick and easy to prepare. You can substitute butternut squash or pumpkin for the sweet potatoes, depending on what you have on hand. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 370 calories, 28g fat (18g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 994mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.
52/58

Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato Chocolate Mole Soup

Contest Winner
Total Time:6 hours 30 min
Servings:8 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is perfect for those days when you’re craving something just a little bit different. It’s spicy, flavorful and a delightful excuse to open up a bar of chocolate—if you’re the type of person who needs an excuse! —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 203 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 511mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
53/58

Couscous Meatball Soup

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This soup will warm you up and takes just 25 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect weeknight meal. —Jonathan Pace, San Francisco, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 202 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 583mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
54/58

Cream of Celery Soup

Total Time:40 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This rich cream of celery soup recipe will warm up any family gathering or quiet evening at home. With just the right amount of onion flavor, it's creamy and crowd-pleasing. —Janet James, Bluff City, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 185 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 989mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
55/58

Turkey Soup

Total Time:4 hours 30 min
Servings:12 (5 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My daughter got this recipe from her husband's mother. As in many households, our turkey gets picked over for a few days after the holidays. This soup is especially good on cold winter nights when it's snowing...which happens a lot where I live! —Carol Brethauer, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1-2/3 cups: 147 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 412mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat.
56/58

Christmas White Chili

Total Time:55 min
Servings:10 (about 3-1/2 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Dreaming of a white Christmas? Try this chili decked with red and green veggies! —Catherine Nickelson, Scandia, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cups: 482 calories, 24g fat (12g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 1488mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 10g fiber), 30g protein.
57/58

Clam Chowder

Contest Winner
Total Time:55 min
Servings:5
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is the best clam chowder recipe ever! In the Pacific Northwest, we dig our own razor clams and I grind them for the chowder. Since these aren't readily available everywhere, the canned clams are perfectly acceptable. —Sandy Larson, Port Angeles, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/3 cups: 280 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 805mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat.
58/58

Slow-Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Total Time:6 hours 30 min
Servings:12 (3 quarts)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Much of the work for this soup can be done in advance, and it keeps all day in the slow cooker. The recipe can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd. Once you’ve tried it, try mixing it up—add sage or savory with the thyme, or replace the thyme with nutmeg. For a vegan version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. —Jennifer Machado, Alta, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 124 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch.

Christmas Soups FAQ

What are the best soups for a Christmas dinner menu?

The best soups for a Christmas dinner menu are made with seasonal flavors and are light enough to leave room for the main course, like butternut squash soup, spinach and mushroom soup, pumpkin curry soup or roasted cauliflower soup. If you want to branch out, try slow-cooked French onion soup, parsnip bisque, pho, or gumbo for something different. Those hosting a Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner on Christmas Eve can go all out with seafood soups, like Cioppino, clam chowder and bouillabaisse.

Are there any Christmas soup recipes that can be made ahead?

Many Christmas soups can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, like roasted tomato, Italian white bean and chicken vegetable. Soups can be refrigerated for three to four days before serving. Freezer-friendly soups can be made two to three months in advance. For the best results when freezing soup, avoid dairy or starch-heavy recipes, which can become grainy or mushy when reheated. Freeze cooked pasta, rice and potatoes separately, then add when reheating.

Can I use Christmas dinner leftovers to make soup?

Christmas dinner leftovers make amazing soup! Use extra Christmas ham and the ham bone to make split pea soup. Roast beef leftovers are perfect in beef barley soup, slow-cooked Mexican beef soup or chili. Stir in the beef when the soup is almost done so the meat stays tender. Leftover chicken makes delicious chicken noodle, chicken and dumpling or enchilada soup. Chop up leftover roasted veggies and toss them into a simmering soup with a few spoonfuls of gravy for an extra boost of flavor.