Easy Homemade Soup for Dinner

Name: Easy Homemade Soup for Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, green beans); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Easy Homemade Soup for Dinner when I want something comforting and nutritious yet easy to prepare. The best part is how versatile it is—you can throw in whatever vegetables you have at hand! In just under an hour, I can whip up a pot of this delicious soup, filling my home with warm aromas. Each spoonful offers a cozy hug, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when I need a pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:37:09.693Z

When I first decided to create a homemade soup, I wanted something quick yet hearty. I experimented with various combinations of vegetables and spices, and eventually settled on a mix that really resonated with my family. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, and the flavors develop even more over time, so leftovers taste just as good!

One tip I learned is to sauté the aromatics like onions and garlic before adding the broth. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the soup significantly, transforming an ordinary meal into something special. I often include herbs like thyme or parsley, which uplift the dish even further.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and customizable with your favorite veggies
Warm and comforting, a family favorite for all ages

      

Aromatics: The Flavor Foundation

The base of a great soup often comes down to the quality of your aromatics. In this recipe, the combination of onion, carrots, and celery—also known as mirepoix—creates a robust flavor that sets the stage for the entire dish. Sauté them until they turn soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and the mixture smells invitingly sweet.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your aromatics! Adding a chopped bell pepper or a small amount of fennel can introduce a nice twist. Similarly, if you’re looking for a deeper flavor profile, consider browning your vegetables slightly, stirring frequently until they develop a light caramelization. This technique enhances their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the soup.

Vegetable Variations

One of the joys of making this soup is its adaptability; feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. For example, leafy greens like spinach or kale can be added in the last few minutes of cooking for an additional nutrient boost. Alternatively, root vegetables such as potatoes or sweet potatoes can be diced and thrown in early during the simmering stage—just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as they may need an extra 10-15 minutes to soften completely.

If you're looking to boost protein, consider adding beans or lentils! They can provide heartiness to this soup without altering the original flavor too much. Just ensure to add them based on their cooking requirements—canned beans can go in towards the end, while dried ones should be soaked and added at the beginning.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, green beans)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in Broth

Add the vegetable or chicken broth, mixed vegetables, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a creamier soup, blend a portion of it with an immersion blender before serving. Additionally, feel free to add leftover meats or grains for extra heartiness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Easy Homemade Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes quite well! To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. To prevent freezer burn, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well for up to 3 months, providing a quick meal option on busy days.

When reheating, I recommend doing so on the stovetop for the best texture. Heat it slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches desired warmth. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as ingredients continue to absorb liquid over time.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete and satisfying meal, serve your soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or a light salad. I love pairing this soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, consider a drizzle of olive oil or a few drops of hot sauce to elevate the taste further.

If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of croutons can add delightful textural contrast. And don’t shy away from garnishing with fresh parsley; it brightens up the dish visually and complements the flavors beautifully. This is a soup that encourages creativity, so feel free to add personal touches!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you like, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions. The soup is already plant-based!

→ Can I add protein to the soup?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, beans, or lentils are great options for adding protein.