Warm up with these delicious brown bag lunch soup recipes for fall and winter!
November 28, 2021
Cold weather and soup go hand in hand, and there’s no better way to warm up on a chilly day than with a hearty bowl of soup. Brown bag lunch soups are perfect for those who want to bring their lunch to work or school, and they’re also great for those who want to have a delicious and healthy meal at home. Soups are not only warm and comforting, but they are also full of nutrients that help keep you healthy during the colder months.
In this post, I’ll be sharing some delicious brown bag lunch soup recipes that are perfect for fall and winter. These soups are easy to make, easy to store, and easy to transport, making them the perfect choice for a hearty lunch that will keep you full and satisfied all day long. So grab your soup pot and get ready to warm up with these delicious soup recipes!
1. Why soup makes a great brown bag lunch
When it comes to brown bag lunches, soup is a great option for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s a warm and comforting meal that can help you battle the fall and winter chill. There’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of soup to warm you up and make you feel cozy and nourished.
Another great thing about soup is that it’s easy to transport. You can make a big batch of soup at the beginning of the week and portion it out into individual containers for your lunches throughout the week. Simply heat it up in the microwave or on the stove at work, and you’ve got a delicious and satisfying meal.
Soup is also customizable, so you can make it to your liking and with the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer a classic chicken noodle soup or a spicy chili, there’s a soup recipe out there for everyone.
Finally, soup is a healthy option for lunch. Many soups are packed with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, making them a great source of nutrients to help you power through the day. So if you’re looking for a delicious, easy, and healthy brown bag lunch option, soup is definitely worth considering.
2. Tips for packing soup for lunch
Packing soup for lunch can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can enjoy a warm and delicious meal at work or on the go. Here are some tips for packing soup for lunch:
1. Use a quality thermos: A high-quality thermos is essential for keeping your soup hot until lunchtime. Look for a thermos that is well insulated and has a tight-fitting lid.
2. Preheat your thermos: Before packing your soup, fill your thermos with hot water and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to warm up the thermos and ensure that your soup stays hot for longer.
3. Pack your soup in a leak-proof container: It’s important to pack your soup in a leak-proof container to avoid any spills or messes. Look for a container with a tight-fitting lid and make sure to place it in your lunch bag upright.
4. Pack your soup with a side of bread: Soup and bread are the perfect pair, so be sure to pack a slice or two of your favorite bread to enjoy with your soup.
5. Consider freezing your soup: If you’re making soup for the week ahead, consider freezing individual portions and reheating them in the morning. This will save you time and ensure that your soup stays fresh until you’re ready to eat it.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of soup for lunch, no matter where you are. So pack up your soup and head off to work with a smile on your face!
3. Cream of tomato soup recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup on a chilly fall or winter day. This delicious recipe is easy to make, and perfect for packing in your brown bag lunch.
To start, you’ll need some basic ingredients like canned tomatoes, butter, onion, garlic, and heavy cream. Begin by sautéing the onion and garlic in butter until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add the canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Next, it’s time to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. You can use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Once the soup is blended, add in the heavy cream and continue to simmer until it’s heated through.
To pack for your brown bag lunch, simply ladle the soup into a thermos or other insulated container. You might also want to pack some crackers or crusty bread to dip in the soup for added texture and flavor.
This cream of tomato soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, and it’s sure to become a lunchtime favorite.
4. Butternut squash soup recipe
Butternut squash soup is a classic fall and winter soup recipe that is easy to make and perfect for lunch. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also healthy and filling, making it a great choice for those chilly days when you need something to warm you up from the inside out.
To make this soup, you will need butternut squash, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, olive oil, and a few spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic, then sauté them in olive oil until they are translucent. Next, add the peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash along with the vegetable broth. Let everything simmer until the squash is tender, which should take about 25-30 minutes. Finally, blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, then add in a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
Serve this soup with a warm crusty bread or crackers to make it a full meal. You can also top it with some croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped herbs like parsley or chives to add more flavor and texture. This butternut squash soup is sure to become a fall and winter favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
5. Chicken noodle soup recipe
As the weather gets colder, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup to comfort and nourish you. This classic soup recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare. To make the soup, start by heating some butter in a pot on medium heat. Add some chopped onions, celery, and carrots and cook until they are soft and fragrant.
Next, add some chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add some egg noodles and cook until they are tender. Then, add some cooked chicken and simmer until the chicken is heated through. Finally, season the soup with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
This chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for packing in your brown bag lunch for work or school. It’s also a great meal to have on hand for those chilly nights when you want something hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and warming soup this fall and winter season.
6. Broccoli cheddar soup recipe
Broccoli cheddar soup is a classic recipe that is perfect for fall and winter lunches. This soup is a warm and comforting dish that is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal brown bag lunch option.
To make this soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot until they are softened. Then add diced broccoli and chicken broth and let the mixture simmer until the broccoli is tender. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until it is smooth.
Next, add grated cheddar cheese to the soup and stir until it is melted and fully incorporated. This will add a rich and creamy texture to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor.
Once the soup is ready, let it cool before transferring it to a container for your brown bag lunch. You can also add some croutons or crackers for a crunchy texture.
This delicious and hearty soup is a great way to warm up during the colder months, and it is sure to become a new favorite for your brown bag lunch rotation.
7. Potato leek soup recipe
Potato leek soup is a classic soup recipe that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This soup is hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for an easy brown bag lunch option.
To make this potato leek soup recipe, you’ll need some basic ingredients such as potatoes, leeks, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Start by sautéing the leeks and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Then add in the potatoes and broth, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender. Finally, puree the soup until it is smooth and creamy and add in the heavy cream for extra richness and flavor.
One of the great things about potato leek soup is how versatile it is. You can add in other ingredients to switch up the flavor, like bacon, chives, or even some grated cheese. Plus, it’s a great option for those who are vegetarian or gluten-free as it can easily be adapted to suit any dietary needs.
Overall, this potato leek soup recipe is a delicious and comforting option for those colder fall and winter days. It’s a great way to warm up your brown bag lunch routine and keep you feeling satisfied and cozy all afternoon.
8. Vegetarian chili recipe
Vegetarian chili is a comforting and hearty soup that is perfect for fall and winter lunches. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious meal that will keep you satisfied all afternoon.
To make vegetarian chili, start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in a large pot until they are soft and fragrant. Add in diced bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, and canned tomatoes, and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
Next, add in your choice of cooked beans – black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans all work well in this recipe. You can also add in chopped zucchini, corn, and diced sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Season the chili with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for a smoky and spicy flavor. Let the chili simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
When serving, top your vegetarian chili with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor. This soup can be packed in a thermos or microwave-safe container for a warm and satisfying lunch that will keep you fueled all day long.
9. Creamy mushroom soup recipe
Nothing warms you up on a cold day quite like a nice hot bowl of soup. This creamy mushroom soup recipe is perfect for those chilly fall and winter days. The combination of hearty mushrooms and rich cream makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and browned.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Pour the soup back into the pot and add the heavy cream. Stir until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This creamy mushroom soup recipe is perfect for packing in a thermos or bringing to work in a brown bag lunch. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover mushrooms you may have in your fridge. So next time you’re feeling chilly, whip up a batch of this delicious soup and warm up from the inside out.
10. Conclusion and additional soup ideas for lunch
In conclusion, soups are a great option for a brown bag lunch during the fall and winter months. They are easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and are a healthy and comforting meal option that will keep you warm during the colder months.
If you’re looking for additional soup ideas, we’ve got you covered! Consider trying a classic chicken noodle soup, a hearty beef and vegetable soup, or a creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwich croutons. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a spicy chili or a flavorful curry soup.
Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to soup recipes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors, spices, and ingredients to create your own unique soup creations. And, don’t forget to pack your soup in an insulated container to keep it warm until lunchtime.
We hope you enjoy these delicious brown bag lunch soup recipes and that they help make your fall and winter lunchtime routine warm and satisfying. Happy cooking!