Sheet pan suppers are a weeknight lifesaver, and sheet pan soups take that convenience to a whole new level. Forget fussy pots and painstaking stirring; with a sheet pan, you can create flavorful, hearty soups with minimal cleanup. This guide explores various delicious and easy sheet pan soup recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. We'll cover everything from prep tips to variations, ensuring you're equipped to become a sheet pan soup master!
What Makes Sheet Pan Soup So Great?
Before we dive into specific recipes, let's highlight the advantages of this cooking method:
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan means less washing up – a huge bonus after a long day!
- Even Cooking: The sheet pan ensures even browning and cooking of vegetables, resulting in perfectly tender ingredients.
- Flavor Infusion: Roasting the vegetables before adding the broth intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Easy Customization: Sheet pan soups are incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt them to your dietary needs and preferences by swapping out ingredients.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a family favorite, packed with flavor and protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread sausage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper evenly on a large sheet pan.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and sausage is browned.
- Transfer the roasted ingredients to a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Sheet Pan Chicken and White Bean Soup
A lighter, yet equally satisfying option, this soup is perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss chicken, beans, zucchini, squash, and red onion with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper on a large sheet pan.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Transfer the roasted ingredients to a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Stir in chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve hot with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
What kind of sheet pan should I use for soup?
You should use a large, rimmed baking sheet to prevent spills and ensure even cooking. A darker colored sheet pan will absorb more heat, potentially leading to quicker cooking times.
Can I make sheet pan soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Most sheet pan soups can be made ahead of time and reheated. Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some variations for sheet pan soup recipes?
The beauty of sheet pan soups lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and spices to create your own unique variations. Consider adding:
- Different Proteins: Ground beef, turkey, chickpeas, or lentils.
- Other Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or green beans.
- Different Broths: Vegetable broth, beef broth, or even coconut milk for a creamy twist.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
With its ease of preparation, minimal cleanup, and delicious results, sheet pan soup is a fantastic addition to any home cook's repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to discover your new favorite weeknight meal!
