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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    24 Cheap Soups That Will Transform Your Weeknight Meals

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on October 19, 2025, updated September 15, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    These 24 soups are quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and budget-friendly ingredients, they will keep your family satisfied and warm. From classic favorites to creative twists, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

    We know "cheap" can mean different things to different people, so here you will find recipes fitting a variety of budgets. From very cheap, to non-expensive, and lots in between.

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    Ham Bone Soup

    Ham Bone Soup.
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    Leftover ham and ham bones can be transformed into a filling soup that's great for a chilly night. This dish is a comforting meal that helps you use up what you already have in your kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Taco Soup

    Slow Cooker Taco Soup.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This soup is simple to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight. It features fire roasted corn, fresh salsa, and whole black olives, creating a delicious combination. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.

    Get the Recipe

    30 Minute Chicken Taco Soup

    30 Minute Chicken Taco Soup.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Creamy chicken taco soup combines shredded chicken, taco spices, black beans, and corn in a smooth broth. With a topping of sour cream and crunchy tortilla strips, this dish is a warm and comforting choice for dinner. It's a simple meal that brings a bit of flavor and coziness to busy weeknights.

    Get the Recipe

    Chicken Lentil Soup

    Nourishing Chicken Lentil Soup.
    Photo Credit: Supergolden Bakes.

    This Chicken Lentil soup is full of protein, fiber, and veggies. It's hearty and warming, making it a great choice for a healthy meal that feels comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

    Get the Recipe

    Spicy Chicken Soup

    Spicy chicken soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This spicy chicken soup is perfect for when you want something warm and comforting. Made with half a chicken and two kinds of chili, it's full of flavor and has a nice kick to it. You can whip it up in under an hour, and it's low in carbs, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have some ready to go.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooked Chicken and Corn Soup

    Slow Cooked Chicken and Corn Soup.
    Photo Credit: Savory with Soul.

    This chicken and corn soup is thick and creamy, giving it a chowder-like feel. It's packed with flavor and is perfect for a filling meal. With its comforting ingredients, this soup is a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Lemon Turmeric Chicken & Rice Soup

    Healing Lemon Turmeric Chicken & Rice Soup.
    Photo Credit: Dash of Jazz.

    This lemon turmeric chicken and rice soup is simple to prepare and packed with healthy ingredients that are good for you. It's a comforting dish that not only warms you up but also supports your immune system. With its rich flavors and nourishing qualities, this soup is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a busy weeknight.

    Get the Recipe

    Creamy Vegan Tomato Soup

    A bowl of creamy vegan
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    This vegan tomato soup is quick and easy to prepare, taking only 25 minutes and using just 10 simple ingredients. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy a hearty bowl of soup that's both satisfying and budget-friendly.

    Get the recipe

    Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

    Chicken noodle soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This spicy soup is packed with Thai flavors and is just what you need for a cozy meal. It's a great option when you're looking for something warm and comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is easy to make and satisfying.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Pot Pie Soup

    Chicken Pot Pie Soup.
    Photo Credit: Cincy Shopper.

    Chicken Pot Pie Soup is simple to prepare using frozen veggies and leftover chicken. This cozy soup is great for chilly evenings and offers a satisfying meal without much effort.

    Get the Recipe

    Black Eyed Pea Soup

    A bowl of black eyed pea soup.
    Photo credit: Bowl of Delicious.

    Black Eyed Pea Soup is a simple and filling dish that's both affordable and healthy. Using dried black eyed peas, this soup comes together quickly, especially if you use an instant pot or slow cooker. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Soup

    A bowl of chicken soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This Instant Pot Chicken Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner that you can whip up in just over an hour. It's creamy with a hint of spice, making it a comforting choice for any night. This soup is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Lemon Soup

    Chicken Lemon Soup.
    Photo Credit: The Fresh Cooky,.

    This homemade chicken soup is a comforting dish filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs. It's ideal for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather. You can choose between a method that brings out deep flavors or a quicker version for when you're short on time. There are also some tips included to ensure your soup is packed with flavor every time.

    Get the Recipe

    Roasted Red Pepper Soup

    Roasted red pepper soup with cheese.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a creamy and smoky roasted red pepper soup. This easy recipe uses jarred roasted red peppers, smoked Gouda, heavy cream, and some dried herbs to create a delicious vegetarian soup. It's perfect for a quick meal on a busy weeknight.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Chicken Barley Soup

    Chicken barley soup.
    Photo Credit: Sweet Caramel Sunday.

    Slow Cooker Chicken Barley Soup is an easy meal that practically cooks itself. Packed with vegetables, chicken broth, and tender shredded chicken, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the Recipe

    Crockpot Ham and Beans Soup

    Crockpot Ham and Beans Soup.
    Photo Credit: Savory with Soul.

    Crockpot ham and beans soup is a great way to use up leftover ham from any holiday or gathering. It's filling and tasty, making it a perfect choice for those chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting. This soup is easy to prepare and will satisfy the whole family.

    Get the Recipe

    Cashew Carrot Ginger Soup

    Cashew Carrot Ginger Soup.
    Photo Credit: The Littlest Crumb,

    This instant pot soup is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. It features cashews, carrots, ginger, coconut milk, and a touch of Thai red curry paste for some spice. It's a great option for busy weeknights, and it's both vegan and gluten-free.

    Get the Recipe

    Hearty Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup

    Hearty Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup.
    Photo Credit: Dizzy Busy & Hungry.

    Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup is a warm and tasty dish that's great for chilly evenings. Tender chicken combines with tomatoes and a hint of spice to create a satisfying meal. It's simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    One Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup

    30 Minute One Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Chicken tortilla soup is a simple and quick meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With a flavorful tomato broth packed with Mexican spices, beans, corn, tomatoes, and shredded chicken, it's a hearty dish that comes together in just one pot. In about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready to serve. Add some sour cream, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips on top for an easy meal that everyone will love.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

    Creamy Italian meatball soup with fresh herbs.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    This Italian meatball soup is simple to make in just one pot. It features tender meatballs and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy tomato broth packed with herbs. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Southwest Chicken Soup

    Creamy Southwest Chicken Soup.
    Photo Credit: Valerie's Kitchen.

    This Creamy Southwest Chicken Soup is packed with flavor thanks to a mix of spices. It's a simple dish that uses common ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is both filling and easy to prepare.

    Get the Recipe

    Cream of Mushroom Soup

    Gluten-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
    Photo Credit: always use butter.

    This gluten-free Cream of Mushroom Soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner. It's simple to prepare and doesn't use any flour, relying instead on plenty of cream for a rich flavor. This classic soup is a comforting choice for busy weeknights.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Three Bean Taco Soup

    Slow Cooker Three Bean Taco Soup
    Photo Credit: Inquiring Chef.

    This Slow Cooker Three Bean Taco Soup is quick and easy to prepare, taking just 10 minutes to get everything ready. It's a vegetarian and gluten-free option that you can even freeze for later. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it cook while you go about your day. When it's done, top it off with your favorite taco fixings like cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and green onions for a satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Meaty Cabbage Soup

    Meaty Cabbage Soup.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    This soup is perfect for when you want something warm and comforting. With just a few basic ingredients like meat and cabbage, it comes together easily. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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