13 Budget-Friendly Soup Recipes for Under $10

Looking for satisfying soup recipes that won't break the bank? This collection of budget-friendly soups will keep your belly full and your wallet happy, all while using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Each recipe comes in under $10, proving that delicious meals can be affordable and easy to make.

Wholesome Vegetable Soup For A Hearty Meal

This wholesome vegetable soup is a perfect choice for a hearty meal. Packed with colorful veggies like carrots, potatoes, and green peas, it’s not only healthy but also budget-friendly. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The vibrant colors in the soup make it visually appealing. The fresh ingredients bring a delightful crunch and flavor that warms you from the inside out. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies your hunger without breaking the bank.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the chopped green beans and peas. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup For Comfort

There's something special about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather. The image shows a hearty bowl filled with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and noodles swimming in a savory broth. This classic dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it a staple in many households.

Making chicken noodle soup is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s a great way to use leftover chicken. The combination of chicken, carrots, celery, and noodles creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s a quick and easy recipe for classic chicken noodle soup that you can make for under $10.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes.
5. Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup With A Twist

This creamy tomato basil soup is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The vibrant red color of the soup is inviting, and the fresh basil adds a pop of green that makes it visually appealing. The soup is served in a cozy bowl, topped with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of herbs, making it look as good as it tastes.

Pairing this soup with a grilled cheese sandwich is a match made in heaven. The crispy bread and gooey cheese complement the rich flavors of the soup perfectly. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to whip up this budget-friendly creamy tomato basil soup.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Heat through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Delicious Split Pea Soup With Ham

Split pea soup with ham is a cozy dish that warms you up from the inside out. The vibrant green color of the soup is inviting, and the chunks of ham add a hearty touch. You can see the carrots peeking through, adding a splash of orange that brightens the bowl. A slice of crusty bread sits nearby, perfect for dipping into the soup. Fresh herbs like thyme sprinkle the top, giving it an aromatic finish.

This recipe is not just easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly. With just a few ingredients, you can create a filling meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. The combination of split peas and ham creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried split peas
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the split peas, broth, and diced ham. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of crusty bread.

Simple Ramen Noodle Soup For Quick Meals

Ramen noodle soup is a go-to for quick, budget-friendly meals. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The image shows a steaming bowl of ramen, topped with a perfectly boiled egg, green onions, and a slice of seaweed. The warm broth invites you to dig in, making it a comforting choice for any day.

Making ramen at home allows you to customize it to your taste. You can add vegetables, proteins, or even different spices to elevate the flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers in your fridge.

Here’s a simple recipe to whip up your own delicious ramen noodle soup:

Ingredients

• 2 packs of instant ramen noodles
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 boiled egg, halved
• 1 cup of chopped green onions
• 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Noodles: Once the broth is boiling, add the instant ramen noodles. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Toppings: In the last minute of cooking, add the sliced mushrooms and half of the chopped green onions to the pot.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a boiled egg half, a piece of nori, and the remaining green onions.
5. Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy your homemade ramen noodle soup!

Flavorful Minestrone Soup Filled With Goodness

Minestrone soup is a classic that brings warmth and comfort. This vibrant dish is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a hearty meal. The colorful ingredients in the image showcase fresh tomatoes, celery, carrots, and pasta, all swimming in a rich broth. It’s not just delicious; it’s also budget-friendly, perfect for those looking to eat well without breaking the bank.

This soup is versatile, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge while creating something wholesome. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add carrots and celery, stirring for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in zucchini, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add pasta and oregano. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nourishing Sweet Potato Soup For A Healthy Treat

Sweet potato soup is a delightful dish that warms you up from the inside out. The vibrant orange color of the soup is not just appealing; it also signals the health benefits packed inside. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, making this soup a nutritious choice for any meal.

The image showcases a bowl of creamy sweet potato soup, garnished with a swirl of cream and topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds. Surrounding the bowl are fresh sweet potatoes and sliced apples, hinting at the wholesome ingredients used in this recipe. The bright colors and textures make it look as good as it tastes!

This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, costing less than $10 to make a hearty batch. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, ground ginger, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in coconut milk for creaminess, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.

Classic French Onion Soup With A Cheesy Topping

Classic French onion soup is a warm hug in a bowl. This comforting dish features rich, caramelized onions swimming in a savory broth. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crunchy croutons, it’s a delightful treat. The image captures a steaming bowl of this soup, served in a rustic bread bowl, with melted cheese cascading down the sides. The inviting aroma wafts through the air, making it hard to resist.

Making this soup at home is simple and budget-friendly. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fancy without breaking the bank. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a meal that warms both the body and soul.

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are golden brown.
2. Add Broth and Wine: Pour in the beef broth and white wine. Add thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Soup: Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with toasted bread slices and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade French onion soup!

Rich And Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a cozy dish that warms you up without breaking the bank. The vibrant green broccoli stands out beautifully against the creamy, cheesy backdrop, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.

The soup is packed with fresh broccoli, giving it a hearty texture. The blend of cheddar cheese adds a delightful creaminess that makes each spoonful comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Making this soup is straightforward. Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add in your broccoli and broth. Once everything is tender, blend it up for that creamy consistency. Stir in the cheese, and you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
3. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook on low until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy your budget-friendly meal!

Traditional Clam Chowder With A Creamy Base

Clam chowder is a classic dish that warms the soul, especially on chilly days. This version features a creamy base that makes it rich and satisfying. The image showcases a beautiful bowl of clam chowder, garnished with fresh clams and herbs, inviting you to take a spoonful. The creamy texture is perfectly complemented by the tender clams and a hint of seasoning.

To make this budget-friendly soup, you’ll need simple ingredients that won’t break the bank. The combination of potatoes, clams, and cream creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams, with juice
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, creating a roux.
3. Add the diced potatoes and clam juice. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring well. Add the chopped clams and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crackers or bread!

Satisfying Cabbage And Sausage Soup

This cabbage and sausage soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. The image shows a bowl filled with vibrant green cabbage, slices of sausage, and colorful veggies, all swimming in a savory broth. It’s not just comforting; it’s also budget-friendly, making it a great choice for those looking to keep costs down while enjoying a delicious meal.

The combination of cabbage and sausage creates a satisfying flavor profile. Cabbage is inexpensive and packed with nutrients, while sausage adds a nice depth of flavor. This soup is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Let’s get into the details of how to whip up this delightful soup!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add chopped cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced sausage. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Quick And Easy Miso Soup For A Light Meal

Miso soup is a fantastic choice for a light meal. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The image shows a warm bowl of miso soup, filled with tofu, seaweed, and green onions. The colors are inviting, making it look both comforting and delicious.

This soup is not only budget-friendly but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you want to add mushrooms, spinach, or even noodles, the options are endless!

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 3 tablespoons miso paste
• 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup seaweed (wakame or similar)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil Water: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add Miso: Lower the heat and dissolve the miso paste in a small bowl with a bit of hot water. Stir it into the pot.
3. Add Tofu: Gently add the cubed tofu and seaweed. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Finish: Stir in the sliced green onions and soy sauce if using. Serve hot and enjoy!

Flavor-Packed Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite during the cooler months. The image shows a beautifully presented bowl of this soup, garnished with pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of oil, surrounded by autumn leaves and pumpkins. It captures the essence of fall, inviting you to enjoy a comforting meal.

This soup is not just tasty; it’s also budget-friendly. You can whip up a delicious batch for under $10, making it perfect for any home cook. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the steps are straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how something so easy can taste so good!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add Squash: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with pumpkin seeds, and enjoy!