Classic Soup Recipes You Need to Try This Thanksgiving Week

As the turkey roasts and the leaves crunch underfoot, there’s something magical about Thanksgiving week. But between the hustle of prepping pies and basting birds, it’s nice to have a little warm comfort simmering on the back burner. These classic soup recipes bring comfort, flavor, and holiday magic to your table. Are you ready to stir up something special?

Cold Day? Warm Up with These Classic Soup Recipes!

When the weather outside makes you want to hibernate under a pile of blankets, a bowl of classic soup is the next best thing. Here are some classic soup recipes to warm your belly. Let’s stir things up!

1. Silky Butternut Squash Soup: A Hug in a Bowl 🎃🥄

This classic soup tastes like autumn in every spoonful. Its velvety texture, sweet earthy flavor, and golden hue make it a perfect starter or light meal. Best of all, it’s as easy as pie (but even cozier).

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, but oh-so-lovely)
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in a large pot until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the squash cubes and stock. Next, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
3. Purée the soup using an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender).
4. Stir in the cream, season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds.

💡 Pro Tip: Roast your squash before blending to bring out its natural sweetness.

2. Turkey Noodle Soup: A Post-Holiday Lifesaver 🦃🍜

Got leftover turkey? This soul-warming soup is a genius way to use it while offering your family a comforting bowl of goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or turkey stock
• 1 cup egg noodles
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large pot, sauté carrot, celery, and onion until softened.

1. Add stock and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in noodles and shredded turkey. Afterward, cook for another 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
3. Garnish with parsley and serve hot with a side of crusty bread.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.

3. Creamy Potato Leek Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food 🥔🧅

This rich and hearty soup is like a warm blanket for your taste buds. Its mild, buttery flavor is a crowd-pleaser, whether as a side or main course.

Ingredients:

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot, then sauté leeks until soft and fragrant.
2. Add diced potatoes and stock. Then, simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Purée the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
4. Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with chives and serve with a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling fancy.

💡 Pro Tip: Toasted baguette slices with a smear of garlic butter make an excellent companion.

Soup Pairings to Elevate the Experience 🥖🍷

A good soup warms the soul, but the right pairing? That takes your meal to the next level. Here are simple ideas to complement each of our featured soups, turning them into a memorable dining experience.

Butternut Squash Soup

Pair this creamy, slightly sweet soup with a slice of crusty artisan bread—like sourdough or a hearty multigrain. Then, add a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt on top and serve with a crisp, lightly dressed arugula salad. For beverages, a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, cuts through the richness beautifully.

Turkey Noodle Soup

Nothing says cozy like turkey noodle soup and warm cornbread slathered with honey butter. To add more freshness, add a simple spinach salad with cranberries and pecans. Want to get fancy? Pair it with a light Pinot Noir for a touch of elegance.

Potato Leek Soup

This creamy classic shines alongside cheesy garlic breadsticks or a flaky puff pastry tart. Round it out with a Caesar salad for crunch and a drizzle of olive oil over the soup. Additionally, a dry Riesling or crisp cider makes the perfect beverage partner.

Savor the Season, One Bowl at a Time

These soups are more than just recipes. They’re also an invitation to slow down, sip, and savor the season. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or winding down with leftovers, they’ll bring warmth and joy to your table.

FAQs 

1. Can I make these soups ahead of time?
   Yes! Soups are perfect for meal prep since the flavors often improve after a day in the fridge.
2. How should I store leftover soup?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make these soups vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken or turkey broth, and omit any meat-based toppings.
4. What’s the best way to reheat soup?
   Reheat soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
5. Can I use frozen vegetables in these recipes?
   Yes, frozen veggies work well in most soups and can save you time on prep.
6. How do I make the butternut squash soup creamier?
   For extra creaminess, add more coconut milk, heavy cream, or even a dollop of sour cream before serving.
7. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for the potato leek soup?
   You bet! Stir them in at the end for added texture and richness.
8. What kind of turkey works best for turkey noodle soup?
   Leftover roasted turkey is ideal, but smoked or deli turkey can also work in a pinch.
9. Are these soups freezer-friendly?
   Yes! Cool the soup completely before freezing in portion-sized containers for an easy grab-and-go meal.
10. Can I make the soups in a slow cooker?
    Definitely! Slow cookers are great for soups—just adjust the cooking time (typically 4–6 hours on low).

Soup’s on! Click here and discover more comforting homemade recipes to brighten your Thanksgiving week.