The Ultimate Soup Guide

Master flavor with this 7-step method

This guide gives you a simple, flexible framework for building soups you’ll love. With this method, you’ll gain confidence in the kitchen and discover endless flavor combinations to explore.

The Framework Behind Every Soup

Confidence in the Kitchen

The 7-Step Soup Method is more than a recipe. It’s a simple and flexible way to cook that will give you confidence every time you step into the kitchen. You won’t just follow instructions — you’ll understand how to build flavor, adjust to what you have on hand, and create soups that feel both comforting and creative.

Simple, Not Complicated

You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. With just a little structure, this method shows you how to mix and match ingredients to create endless bowls of flavor, from cozy classics to bright global twists.

Flexible Foundations

There are many other wonderful ways to make soup: Crockpots, Instant Pots, and family traditions all have their place. The beauty of this method is that it teaches you the foundations of flavor, and those foundations carry beautifully into any cooking style you choose.

Your Kitchen Companion

Think of this guide as your kitchen companion. Inside you’ll find the 7 steps explained clearly, plus recipes for every season and mood. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, hosting friends, or turning holiday leftovers into something new, these soups will give you both comfort and pride.

Here’s the full 7-Step Soup Method at a glance (and if you want the in-depth version, you can read the step-by-step tutorial here).

Explore the Collection

Made With the 7-Step Soup Method

Click for full recipes.

Infographic describing how to make classic vegetable beef soup using the 7-Step Soup Method
Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup recipe using the 7-Step Soup Method
Graphic of the recipe for turkey chili, made with turkey and two kinds of beans and topped with sour cream and cheddar cheese
Infographic describing how to make classic chicken noodle soup in 7 steps.

Discover your next soup!

Frequently Asked Questions

Soup Questions, Answered

Collage of pictures about making soup

Can I make these soups vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Most soups can easily be adapted. Swap chicken or beef broth for vegetable broth, skip the meat, and add extra beans, lentils, or hearty veggies. For vegan soups, use olive oil or coconut milk instead of butter and cream, and leave out the cheese.


Can I use an Instant Pot or slow cooker for these recipes?

Absolutely. The 7-Step Soup Method works no matter how you cook. In the Instant Pot, use the sauté function for your fat and flavor base, then pressure cook on high for 5–10 minutes. In the slow cooker, sauté aromatics on the stove first, then let everything simmer low and slow for rich flavor.


How do I store and reheat homemade soup?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat until steaming. If it’s a creamy soup, avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth.


What’s the best way to freeze soup?

Most soups freeze beautifully! Let the soup cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. (Tip: Creamy soups may separate a little, but they’ll come back together with a stir.)

👉 My favorite way to freeze soup is with Souper Cubes. They portion soup into perfect 1- or 2-cup blocks, which makes reheating single servings quick and easy.


How do I thicken or thin my soup if the texture isn’t right?

If your soup is too thin, simmer uncovered to let it reduce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry, mashed potatoes, or an extra handful of rice or pasta. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of broth, milk, or water until it’s the consistency you like.

The beauty of soup is that it is endlessly adaptable. With the 7-Step Soup Method, you can master the basics and then make each bowl your own. Whether you are cooking for comfort, sharing with friends, or experimenting with new flavors, this guide is here to inspire you. Explore the recipes above, try the method, and make soup a regular part of your table.

Want to dive deeper into the method? Check out my full 7-Step Soup Method post for a detailed walk-through with extra tips and examples.