Cozy Bowls for Crisp Days: 5 Favorite Fall Soups
This Sunday marks the official start of fall and the crisp autumn air is already rolling in and the leaves are turning deep red and golden. In this new season there's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. Fall is the perfect season to indulge in hearty, flavorful soups that not only nourish but also capture the essence of the season. Whether it's a classic, creamy New England Clam Chowder or the rich, savory depths of Ribollita, these soups are the perfect antidote to chilly weather and the ideal companions for cozy evenings at home.
In this post, we're sharing five of our all-time favorite fall soups, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the zesty, tomato-based Manhattan Clam Chowder to the sweet and nutty Butternut Squash Soup, there's something for everyone. So grab your favorite soup pot and settle in—we're diving into the best recipes to make this fall your coziest one yet.
This vibrant, tomato-based soup that's hearty yet light enough to enjoy all season long. Start by sautéing diced yellow onion, celery, and carrots in olive oil until softened and fragrant, providing the perfect aromatic base. Yukon gold potatoes add a creamy texture, while garlic and tomato paste deepen the flavor. The rich tomato base comes from a can of whole, peeled tomatoes, which are diced and added with their juices. To infuse the soup with briny flavor, clam juice and minced clams are stirred in, alongside fresh thyme and a bay leaf for an herby depth. A pinch of crushed red pepper adds a touch of heat, balanced by kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, and you have a warming, savory chowder perfect for fall.
This is the perfect embodiment of fall, combining the natural sweetness of roasted squash with warming spices. Begin by roasting a 3-pound butternut squash until tender, then sauté chopped yellow onion in extra-virgin olive oil until soft and fragrant. Add a pinch of cardamom, nutmeg, and fresh grated ginger to infuse the soup with a cozy, aromatic warmth. Once the squash is roasted, blend it with the sautéed onions, vegetable broth, kosher salt, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness, creating a silky, velvety texture. For an extra layer of flavor, top with a drizzle of pumpkin seed oil, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a dollop of homemade cranberry sauce. The sauce is a simple yet delicious addition, made by caramelizing sugar and stirring in fresh cranberries, resulting in a tangy-sweet burst that complements the soup's rich, earthy flavor.
This soup brings comfort and warmth, especially during fall. Start by heating extra virgin olive oil in a pot and sautéing diced yellow onion until soft and translucent, releasing its sweet flavor. Fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and strained, are the star of the soup, adding a fresh, bright taste. Combine the fresh tomatoes with canned peeled crushed tomatoes for added depth and richness. Stir in chicken or vegetable stock, depending on your preference, along with a sprig of fresh basil to infuse the soup with herbal notes. A pinch of sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, while salt is added to taste. Let the ingredients simmer until they meld into a smooth, flavorful soup that’s perfect on its own or served alongside a warm grilled cheese.
This rich, creamy soup perfect for chilly days, offering a hearty blend of flavors. Begin by melting unsalted butter in a large pot and sautéing finely diced onions and cubed celery until tender. Add flour to create a roux, which helps thicken the chowder as it cooks. Stir in water, clam juice, and the chopped clams along with their juice, allowing the flavors to meld. Russet potatoes, cut into small cubes, add substance and texture to the chowder. Heavy cream brings the signature creamy richness, while salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a few shakes of Tabasco add depth and a gentle heat. Once simmered to perfection, garnish with the reserved chopped celery leaves for a fresh, herby finish. This clam chowder is a comforting, savory dish that warms you from the inside out.
This hearty, rustic Tuscan soup that celebrates simple, wholesome ingredients. Begin by heating extra virgin olive oil in a large pot, then sauté minced garlic, diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant. Add two quarts of water, along with Tuscan kale, thyme, and sage sprigs, to infuse the broth with earthy, herbaceous flavors. Cannellini beans bring a creamy texture to the soup, while chunks of stale, crusty bread help thicken it, creating a satisfying, stew-like consistency. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and let the soup simmer until the flavors meld. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle a bit more olive oil over each bowl before serving. Ribollita is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly fall days, and its depth of flavor only improves with time, making it even better as leftovers.