There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup or stew that makes everything feel a little more relaxed, doesn’t it? I can still remember those dreary rainy afternoons from my childhood when my mom would whip something up on the stove, a fragrant medley that would wrap around us like a cozy blanket. The kitchen would fill with rich aromas, and my siblings and I would come running, eager to find out what was bubbling away. Those memories inspire my love for creating hearty meals—especially when I’m short on time and energy. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Lazy Soups and Stews for Cozy Nights, a dish that’s as comforting as a hug and makes the perfect weeknight dinner without demanding too much from you.

This recipe speaks to those of us who love the idea of home-cooked meals yet sometimes feel overwhelmed by complicated instructions and endless prep work. With just a few ingredients and a touch of love, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. So grab your favorite hoodie, cozy up, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Budget-friendly: uses pantry staples and veggies.
• Comforting flavors that warm your soul.
• You can personalize it with your favorite ingredients!
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for a hearty bowl of Lazy Soup or Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced (fresh onion adds depth, but we won’t judge if you use frozen!)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic packs a punch, just the way we like it)
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you fancy)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (no need to drain—juicy goodness!)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) beans of your choice, drained and rinsed (great for protein!)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that cozy smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish (optional, but adds a pop of freshness!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive in? Let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This is where the cozy vibes start!
2. Sauté the veggies: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then toss in the garlic for an additional minute. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
3. Add the hearty vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting them soften slightly.
4. In with the zucchini and tomatoes: Stir in the zucchini and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included!). Let those flavors mingle for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth: Add the broth, beans, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine everything. Bring to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer it down: Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and serve: Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs if using, and enjoy the warmth of your cooking!

Pro Tips & Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or some red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
• Add grains: Throw in some cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta near the end for extra heartiness.
• Meat lovers: You can sauté some ground turkey or beef along with the onions for added protein.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill for varied flavors.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, indulgent soup!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delightful soup or stew, the possibilities are endless! I love to grab some crusty bread or fluffy rolls and let everyone dip and soak while they enjoy their bowls. It’s the ultimate cozy night arrangement! You could even serve it over rice for a heartier meal or alongside a fresh side salad for some crunch. Pair it with a warm cup of tea or a nice glass of wine, and you’ll feel like you’ve just transported yourself to a cozy bistro on a chilly evening.

Storage Tips

The best part about this Lazy Soup and Stew is how well it stores! Here’s how to keep the cozy flavors intact:

• Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Portion it into freezer-safe ziploc bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to label!
• Reheating: For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then just warm it up on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables is a great shortcut and saves time. Just toss them in as you would fresh ones, and adjust the cooking time as needed since they may require slightly less cooking.

How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is versatile! Simply use vegetable broth and plant-based options for the beans. You can also toss in more veggies or grains for extra nutrition.

What are some good toppings for this soup or stew?

For a garnish, try croutons, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream or greek yogurt. The toppings add an extra layer of flavor and texture!

Can I double this recipe for meal prep?

Yes, feel free to double the recipe! It’s perfect for meal prepping and can easily be reheated throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

There you have it—my go-to recipe for Lazy Soups and Stews for Cozy Nights! It’s simple, nourishing, and filled with love, just like my mom used to make. I hope you find joy in making this dish and sharing it with family and friends. I’d love to hear how your cozy night turns out. Remember to comment below and share your thoughts or any special twists you added to your soup or stew! Let’s spread warmth and flavor together!

Cozy Lazy Soups & Stews for Effortless Comfort Nights

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover easy lazy soups & stews, perfect for cozy nights. Enjoy effortless comfort with hearty recipes that warm your soul. Perfect for chilly evenings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 onion, diced

2–3 cloves of garlic, minced

3 carrots, sliced

2 stalks of celery, chopped

1 bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes

4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth

1 can (15 oz) of beans of your choice, drained and rinsed

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh herbs for garnish

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Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent, then add garlic for an additional minute.

Add carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Stir in zucchini and diced tomatoes (including juice) and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Add broth, beans, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well and bring it to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 20 minutes.

Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy.

Notes

A hearty and comforting Lazy Soup and Stew recipe perfect for cozy nights and busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: lazy soup, cozy stews, easy recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food, hearty meals