14 Easy Soup Recipes Perfect for Two People

Soup for two hits a sweet spot: quick to make, easy to portion, and comforting without leftovers crowding your fridge. Whether you’re cooking with someone or just craving a balanced small-batch meal, these recipes deliver big flavor in small servings. From silky tomato basil to cozy chicken noodle, each one is perfectly scaled for two bowls. Let’s get into 14 soups that make staying in feel special and help you skip the takeout habit one cozy spoonful at a time.

1. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This classic never disappoints. Simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of cream until smooth. Add torn basil right before serving for freshness. You can blend it silky or leave it a bit rustic. The key is to balance acidity with richness, so finish with a drizzle of cream or Parmesan. Serve alongside toasted sourdough or a shared grilled cheese. It’s warm, familiar, and just enough for two bowls without leftovers going to waste.

2. Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup starts with onions, carrots, and celery sautéed in butter until aromatic. Add shredded chicken, noodles, and broth, letting it simmer until tender and comforting. Using leftover rotisserie chicken makes prep quick without losing flavor. A touch of lemon juice or fresh dill at the end brightens the bowl. The result is wholesome, hearty, and deeply satisfying-a classic that warms you from the inside out with every spoonful.

3. Potato Leek Soup

Potato leek soup starts with thinly sliced leeks sautéed in butter until tender and fragrant. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth, then simmer until the vegetables are soft. Blend until smooth, finishing with a splash of milk or cream for a silky texture that’s rich but not heavy. Top with chives or crispy bacon before serving. Elegant yet simple, this cozy soup feels restaurant-worthy but takes little effort, perfect for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner for two.

4. Lentil Soup with Spinach

Lentil soup with spinach is a hearty, nourishing dish that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. Begin by sautéing onion, garlic, and carrots, then add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Simmer until the lentils are tender, then stir in fresh spinach to gently wilt. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon brighten every bite. Earthy, protein-rich, and deeply satisfying, it’s a healthy yet cozy meal perfect for cool evenings.

5. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup begins with roasting cubed squash until caramelized and tender, bringing out its natural sweetness. Blend it with sautéed onions, garlic, and vegetable broth for a smooth, golden base. Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for gentle warmth, and swirl in coconut milk or cream for a touch of richness. Silky, cozy, and deeply flavorful, it’s a simple yet elegant. This soup is perfect for date nights or relaxing evenings with crusty bread on the side.

6. Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed

Miso soup with tofu and seaweed starts by whisking miso paste into hot, not boiling, water or broth to preserve its delicate flavor and nutrients. Gently add soft tofu cubes, sliced green onions, and rehydrated seaweed for texture and freshness. Light yet comforting, it’s ready in minutes and perfect when you want something quick and soothing. Serve alongside rice or sushi for a simple, balanced meal that tastes straight from a Japanese kitchen.

7. French Onion Soup

French onion soup begins by slowly caramelizing onions in butter until golden, soft, and deeply sweet. Add beef broth, thyme, and a splash of white wine, then simmer to develop a rich flavor. Pour into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and cover with melted Gruyère or mozzarella. Warm, savory, and indulgent, it’s the perfect comfort for cold nights, best served fresh for two, so every bite keeps its gooey, golden cheese crust intact.

8. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup begins with tender steamed broccoli blended with sautéed onions, garlic, and broth to form a smooth, flavorful base. Add shredded cheddar and a splash of cream, creating richness without heaviness. The soup turns velvety and vibrant, perfectly balancing sharp cheese with fresh greens. Serve it in bread bowls or with crackers for crunch. Nostalgic, creamy, and deeply satisfying, it’s a cozy classic that makes comfort food feel just a little wholesome.

9. Tortilla Soup

Tortilla soup builds bold flavor quickly by sautéing onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Add broth, crushed tomatoes, and shredded chicken, then simmer until rich and aromatic. Serve topped with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for brightness. Zesty, colorful, and endlessly customizable, it delivers the perfect mix of heat, crunch, and tang in a fast, vibrant way to enjoy Mexican-inspired comfort at home.

10. Clam Chowder

Clam chowder starts with bacon, onions, and celery sautéed until fragrant and lightly browned. Diced potatoes, tender clams, and clam juice are added, followed by milk or cream to create a rich, velvety base. The soup simmers gently until the potatoes are tender and the flavors harmonize. Fresh thyme or parsley lends a bright finish, while oyster crackers or crusty bread complete the experience a cozy, classic dish that makes any night feel a little more special.

11. Thai Coconut Curry Soup

Thai coconut curry soup comes together by blending coconut milk, broth, curry paste, and lime juice in a pot for a fragrant, flavorful base. Add vegetables, noodles, or shrimp, and simmer until tender. The coconut lends a velvety richness, while the curry provides gentle heat and depth. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes for brightness. Bold yet balanced, it’s a quick dish that delivers the comfort and complexity of hours-long cooking.

12. Mushroom Barley Soup

Mushroom barley soup starts with mushrooms, onions, and garlic sautéed until golden brown and aromatic, building a deep, earthy base. Add broth, pearl barley, and a sprig of thyme, then let it simmer slowly until the grains are tender and the flavors meld together. A splash of soy sauce adds richness and umami depth. Comforting and full-bodied, this soup feels hearty without being heavy, nourishing, cozy choice that’s perfect for two and rarely leaves leftovers.

13. Corn chowder

Corn chowder starts with onions, celery, and diced potatoes sautéed in butter until fragrant and soft. Add sweet corn and broth, then simmer until the vegetables are tender. Blend part of the soup for a creamy base, stirring in milk for richness and balance. The corn’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with smoky paprika or crisp green onions. Comforting yet bright, this chowder is hearty enough for winter but light enough to enjoy any time of year.

14. Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup begins with a pot of chicken broth brought to a gentle simmer, seasoned with soy sauce and a few drops of sesame oil for subtle depth. Beaten eggs are drizzled in slowly while stirring, forming delicate ribbons that set almost instantly. Add sliced green onions for freshness and a dash of white pepper for gentle heat. Light, silky, and satisfying, it’s a quick comfort that feels homemade and soothing, ready in under 10 minutes, perfect for two on a busy or cozy night.