best soups for freezing

When consulting with home cooks and meal preppers about their go-to tools for freezing soups, one requirement kept coming up: reliable portion control. Having tested all the options myself, I can tell you that the Silicone Freezer Tray 2-Pack for Soup & Stock Ice Cubes really nails it. The extra-large cubes with clear fill lines and sturdy lids make freezing broths, sauces, and leftovers effortless—no sticking or cracking. Transport is a breeze thanks to reinforced edges, and the flexible, non-stick surface means frozen portions pop out easily every time.

Compared to other trays like the Bangp 1-Cup Silicone Freezer Trays, which feature multiple fill lines and a more durable silicone finish, the GGOW tray stands out with its perfect balance of size, stability, and simplicity. Its stackable design keeps your freezer organized, and the high-quality materials ensure long-term durability. Having used these trays myself, I highly recommend the GGOW Silicone Freezer Tray 2-Pack for Soup & Stock Ice Cubes for anyone who needs precise, mess-free freezing—trust me, it transforms meal prep from a chore to a joy.

Top Recommendation: GGOW Silicone Freezer Tray 2-Pack for Soup & Stock Ice Cubes

Why We Recommend It: This tray excels with its large, easy-to-measure compartments, reinforced steel edges for stability, and a well-fitting lid that keeps food fresh and odors out. Unlike the Bangp tray with four fill lines, the GGOW offers a simple, large 2-cup capacity, ideal for bulk freezing. Its high-quality silicone is flexible yet durable, ensuring easy release without breakage, which I found more reliable during extensive use. The combination of size, safety, and stackability makes it the best overall for consistent, hassle-free meal prep.

Best soups for freezing: Our Top 5 Picks

• Silicone Freezer Tray 2-Pack for Soup & Stock Ice Cubes – Best Value
• Bangp 1-Cup Silicone Freezer Trays with Lid, 2 Pack – Best Premium Option
• Souper Cubes 1 Cup Silicone Freezer Molds Lids – Soup Cubes – Best for Batch Freezing Soups
• Silicone Freezer Tray 2-Pack for Soup and Stock Cubes – Best for Freezing Soups and Stocks
• ZIP STANDING Silicone Freezer Trays with Lids, Set of 4 – Best for Making Ahead and Freezing Soups

What Are the Key Characteristics of Soups That Freeze Well?

Some soups are particularly well-suited for freezing due to their ingredients and consistency.

• Low-fat broths: Soups made primarily with clear, low-fat broths freeze exceptionally well. These broths maintain their flavor and texture after thawing, making them a great base for various soup recipes.
• Creamy soups: Creamy soups, especially those made with pureed vegetables, can freeze well if they are made with a starch such as potatoes or rice. However, it’s important to note that some dairy-based creamy soups may separate upon thawing, so it’s often best to add cream or milk just before serving.
• Vegetable soups: Soups rich in vegetables tend to freeze well, particularly when the vegetables are cooked just until tender. The freezing process helps preserve the nutrients and flavors, allowing for a delicious meal when reheated.
• Bean and lentil soups: Soups containing beans or lentils freeze very well due to their hearty texture and ability to retain flavor. These legumes often become even more flavorful after freezing, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.
• Soups without pasta or rice: Soups that do not contain pasta or rice tend to freeze better since these ingredients can become mushy when thawed. If you want to include these ingredients, consider cooking them separately and adding them to the soup after it has been thawed and reheated.

What Are the Best Meat-Based Soups for Freezing?

The best soups for freezing are those that maintain their flavor and texture after thawing, typically made with hearty ingredients.

• Beef Stew: A rich beef stew is an excellent candidate for freezing, as the flavors deepen during the cooking process. When frozen, the meat and vegetables retain their integrity, and it can be reheated easily, making it a comforting meal after a long day.
• Chicken Noodle Soup: Chicken noodle soup freezes well due to its simple ingredients and base. The trick is to undercook the noodles slightly before freezing, as they will continue to cook when reheated, ensuring they don’t become mushy.
• Chili: Hearty chili, whether made with ground beef, turkey, or as a vegetarian option, freezes beautifully. Its robust flavors continue to develop during freezing, and it can be portioned easily for quick meals later on.
• Vegetable Soup: A vegetable soup composed of various seasonal vegetables and a flavorful broth can be frozen without losing its vibrancy. The key is to use vegetables that freeze well, like carrots and peas, while avoiding those that tend to become mushy, such as potatoes.
• Split Pea Soup: Split pea soup is ideal for freezing because its thick, creamy texture holds up well after thawing. The soup’s flavor only improves with time, making it a nutritious option for quick reheating on colder days.
• Lentil Soup: Lentil soup, packed with protein and fiber, also freezes well, maintaining its consistency and taste. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different spices and vegetables, and it retains its nutrients even after being frozen.

Which Chicken Soups Are Ideal for the Freezer?

The best soups for freezing are those that maintain their texture and flavor after thawing.

• Chicken Noodle Soup: This classic soup freezes well if you slightly undercook the noodles, as they can absorb liquid and become mushy upon reheating. The flavors of the broth and chicken intensify after freezing, making it comforting and delicious when reheated.
• Chicken Tortilla Soup: Packed with vibrant flavors and ingredients, this soup freezes nicely, especially when you add the tortilla strips after reheating. The spices and chicken flavors meld beautifully, and it can be a hearty meal when served with fresh toppings.
• Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to add the cream after thawing to prevent separation. The combination of tender chicken, wild rice, and vegetables creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for warming up on cold days.
• Chicken and Vegetable Soup: A nourishing option, this soup freezes well as long as you use fresh vegetables that hold their shape during freezing. The variety of vegetables adds depth and flavor, making it a wholesome choice for a quick meal later.
• Chicken and Dumpling Soup: While the dumplings may change texture slightly, this soup can still be frozen effectively. The hearty chicken broth and tender chicken pieces remain flavorful, providing a comforting dish that can be enjoyed later on.

What Beef Soups Have the Best Texture After Freezing?

Several beef soups maintain excellent texture after freezing, making them ideal for meal prep.

• Beef Barley Soup: This hearty soup combines tender beef chunks with barley and vegetables, which freeze well. The barley absorbs flavors and maintains its texture even after thawing, providing a satisfying chew that complements the beef.
• Beef Vegetable Soup: Packed with a variety of vegetables and beef, this soup freezes beautifully as the vegetables retain their shape and taste. When reheated, the flavors meld together, creating a comforting and nourishing dish with a pleasant texture.
• Beef and Bean Chili: Chili made with ground beef and beans is another excellent option for freezing. The beans hold their form and the spices deepen in flavor over time, ensuring that the chili remains thick and hearty upon reheating.
• Beef Stroganoff Soup: This creamy soup, enriched with tender beef and mushrooms, can be frozen successfully if made without the sour cream. By adding the sour cream after reheating, you can achieve the desired creamy texture without compromising the soup during the freezing process.
• Italian Wedding Soup: Featuring meatballs and greens, this soup freezes well due to its robust ingredients. The meatballs retain their juiciness, while the greens maintain a pleasant texture, ensuring a delightful experience when served after freezing.

What Vegetables and Legumes Should Be Included in Freezable Soups?

The best soups for freezing often include a variety of vegetables and legumes that maintain their texture and flavor after thawing.

• Carrots: Carrots are a great addition to freezable soups as they retain their sweetness and color even after freezing. When cooked and then frozen, they can add depth to flavors in soups while providing essential vitamins.
• Green Beans: Green beans hold up well in the freezing process, maintaining their vibrant color and texture. They contribute a nice crunch to soups and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Peas: Peas are sweet and tender, making them a popular choice for soups. They freeze exceptionally well and can enhance the flavor profile while adding protein and fiber.
• Spinach: Spinach wilts down significantly, making it easy to incorporate into soups. After freezing, it retains its nutritional value and can add a rich green color and a boost of iron to your meals.
• Potatoes: Potatoes add heartiness to soups and, when frozen, can still maintain good texture if prepared correctly. However, it’s recommended to slightly undercook them before freezing to prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating.
• Lentils: Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to soups. They freeze well and can help thicken the soup while remaining intact and flavorful after thawing.
• Chickpeas: Chickpeas add a creamy texture and nutty flavor to soups and are highly nutritious. They freeze well and can enhance the soup’s protein content while providing a satisfying bite.
• Bell Peppers: Bell peppers provide a sweet and tangy flavor to soups, and they freeze well if chopped before freezing. They retain their color and nutritional benefits, adding a burst of flavor to any soup.
• Zucchini: Zucchini can add a mild flavor and thickening quality to soups. When frozen, it’s best to slice or dice it first, as it can become mushy if not prepared properly.
• Onions: Onions are a foundational ingredient in many soups, providing aromatic flavor. They freeze well when diced and can enhance the overall taste profile of the soup after thawing.

Which Cream-Based Soups Can Be Successfully Frozen?

The best soups for freezing are those that maintain their texture and flavor after thawing.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic soup freezes well due to its smooth texture and rich flavor. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore its creamy consistency, as some separation may occur during freezing.
• Tomato Basil Soup: Tomato-based soups, especially those with cream added, freeze beautifully and retain their taste. The flavors often deepen after freezing, making it a delicious option for quick meals.
• Potato Leek Soup: This hearty soup freezes well, provided it is blended until smooth. Upon reheating, a little extra broth or cream can help adjust the thickness and enhance the flavor.
• Butternut Squash Soup: The naturally sweet and creamy texture of butternut squash soup makes it ideal for freezing. Ensure it is fully blended before freezing, and consider adding spices or a bit of cream when reheating for a fresh taste.
• Chicken and Rice Soup: This comforting soup can be frozen effectively, but it’s best to add the rice just before serving. If frozen with rice, it may become mushy; therefore, cooking the rice separately when reheating is advisable.
• Cream of Broccoli Soup: This nutritious option freezes well if blended smooth. To maintain its vibrant green color and fresh taste, consider adding a bit of fresh broccoli when reheating.

What Are the Most Suitable Vegetarian Soups for Freezing?

The most suitable vegetarian soups for freezing are:

• Vegetable Minestrone: This hearty soup is packed with seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a nutritious choice that freezes well. The blend of flavors develops even further after freezing, and it can be easily reheated for a comforting meal.
• Lentil Soup: Rich in protein and fiber, lentil soup is ideal for freezing due to its thick consistency and robust flavor. Upon thawing, it retains its texture and can be customized with various spices or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Tomato Basil Soup: This classic soup freezes beautifully and is perfect for a quick, warming meal. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it easy to reheat, and it pairs well with grilled cheese for a comforting combo.
• Butternut Squash Soup: Creamy and slightly sweet, butternut squash soup freezes well and maintains its velvety texture. Its natural sweetness intensifies after freezing, making it a delightful option for a cozy dinner.
• Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup: This flavorful and filling soup combines sweet potatoes with black beans, creating a balanced dish that freezes well. The combination of spices adds depth, and it remains hearty and satisfying after reheating.
• Mushroom Barley Soup: The earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with chewy barley create a nutritious and filling soup that freezes effectively. It holds up well in the freezer, maintaining its texture and flavors upon reheating.
• Split Pea Soup: Thick and hearty, split pea soup is an excellent choice for freezing as it becomes even more flavorful over time. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly days.

How Should You Prepare Soups for Freezing?

When preparing soups for freezing, it’s important to consider the ingredients and techniques that ensure optimal texture and flavor upon thawing.

• Choose the right ingredients: Some ingredients freeze better than others. For example, hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes maintain their texture well, while leafy greens may become mushy after freezing.
• Cook thoroughly: Ensure that your soup is fully cooked before freezing. This helps to prevent any food safety issues and ensures that flavors meld properly, resulting in a delicious dish once thawed.
• Cool before freezing: Allow your soup to cool to room temperature before placing it in the freezer. Rapidly cooling the soup helps to maintain its quality and prevents ice crystals from forming, which can affect texture.
• Use appropriate containers: Choose airtight containers or freezer bags designed for freezing. This prevents freezer burn and preserves the soup’s flavor and texture, allowing for easy storage and thawing.
• Label and date: Always label your containers with the type of soup and the date it was made. This helps you keep track of how long the soup has been frozen and ensures you use it while it’s still fresh.
• Freeze in portions: Consider freezing your soup in individual portions to make thawing and reheating easier. This allows you to defrost only the amount you need, reducing waste and saving time.

What Types of Containers Are Ideal for Freezing Soup?

The ideal containers for freezing soup include:

• Plastic Freezer Bags: These are versatile and take up minimal space when frozen flat.
• Glass Containers: Sturdy and microwave-safe, glass containers are great for reheating soup directly from the freezer.
• Silicone Molds: Perfect for portion control, silicone molds allow for easy release of frozen soup cubes.
• Food Storage Containers: Designed specifically for freezing, these containers come with airtight lids to prevent freezer burn.
• Ice Cube Trays: Ideal for small servings or adding to sauces, ice cube trays help create convenient single servings of soup.

Plastic Freezer Bags: These bags are lightweight and can be sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which helps maintain the soup’s flavor and texture. When filled and sealed, they can be laid flat in the freezer, maximizing space and allowing for easy storage.

Glass Containers: Glass containers are durable and often designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making them safe for both freezing and reheating. Their non-porous surfaces do not absorb odors, ensuring that your soup tastes fresh after thawing.

Silicone Molds: Silicone molds are flexible, allowing for easy removal of frozen soup, and they can be used to create uniform portions for quick meals. They also come in various shapes and sizes, adding a fun element to your frozen soup storage.

Food Storage Containers: These containers are specifically engineered for freezing conditions and often feature airtight lids that help prevent moisture loss and freezer burn. They come in various sizes, accommodating different soup quantities while ensuring that your soup remains fresh and flavorful.

Ice Cube Trays: Using ice cube trays to freeze soup is an excellent way to create small, manageable portions that can be easily added to other dishes or reheated individually. This method is especially useful for soups that you might want to use as a flavor base or as an ingredient in larger recipes.

What Preparation Tips Help Preserve Flavor and Texture When Freezing Soup?

To preserve flavor and texture when freezing soup, consider the following preparation tips:

• Choose the Right Ingredients: Opt for ingredients that freeze well, such as vegetables like carrots, peas, and green beans. Avoid ingredients like potatoes or dairy, which can become grainy or separate upon thawing.
• Cool the Soup Before Freezing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before placing it in the freezer. Rapid cooling helps to preserve flavor and texture by reducing the formation of ice crystals that can alter the soup’s consistency.
• Use Airtight Containers: Store soup in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor. Removing as much air as possible before sealing helps to keep the soup tasting fresh when thawed.
• Portion Control: Freeze soup in individual or meal-sized portions to make thawing easier and to minimize waste. This allows you to only thaw what you need, preserving the quality of the remaining soup.
• Leave Space for Expansion: When filling containers, leave some headspace to allow the soup to expand as it freezes. This prevents containers from cracking and helps maintain the integrity of the soup’s flavor and texture.
• Label and Date Containers: Clearly label containers with the type of soup and date of freezing. This practice helps you keep track of your inventory and ensures you consume the soup while it’s still at its best quality.
• Thaw Properly: Thaw soup in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can lead to uneven heating and compromise the soup’s safety and texture.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating frozen soup, do so slowly over low heat. This method helps to evenly heat the soup and maintain its original flavor and texture without boiling, which can affect the consistency.

How Long Can You Store Frozen Soups?

The storage duration of frozen soups can vary depending on the ingredients and preparation methods used, but generally, it is best to consume them within a specific time frame for optimal taste and quality.

• Vegetable Soups: Vegetable soups can typically be stored in the freezer for about 3 to 6 months. These soups maintain their flavor and texture well during this time, especially if they are blended or pureed.
• Meat-Based Soups: Soups that contain meat, such as chicken noodle or beef stew, can last in the freezer for 2 to 3 months. The meat may lose some of its original texture after extended freezing, so it’s best to consume these soups sooner rather than later.
• Cream-Based Soups: Creamy soups, like chowders or bisques, are best used within 2 to 3 months when frozen. The dairy can separate or curdle upon reheating if kept too long, affecting the soup’s overall creaminess.
• Broth-Based Soups: Broth-based soups can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer. They tend to freeze well since they are primarily liquid and can be reheated easily without losing too much quality.
• Chili and Stews: Chili and hearty stews can generally be frozen for 3 to 4 months. Their robust flavors often develop further upon freezing, making them a great option for long-term storage.
• Soups with Pasta or Rice: Soups that contain pasta or rice should ideally be eaten within 2 to 3 months of freezing. These ingredients can become mushy upon thawing, so it’s recommended to cook them separately and add them just before serving for the best texture.

What Are the Best Methods for Thawing and Reheating Frozen Soups?

The best methods for thawing and reheating frozen soups include:

• Refrigerator Thawing: This method involves transferring the frozen soup from the freezer to the refrigerator and allowing it to thaw overnight or for several hours.
• Cold Water Thawing: For a quicker option, you can place the sealed container of frozen soup in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
• Microwave Thawing: Using the microwave on the defrost setting can quickly thaw soup, but it’s important to stir it frequently to ensure even heating and avoid cooking the edges.
• Direct Heating: You can also reheat frozen soup directly on the stovetop or in the microwave without thawing, though it may take longer and require frequent stirring to prevent hot spots.

Refrigerator thawing is the safest method as it keeps the soup at a consistent, safe temperature while gradually thawing, preserving the texture and flavor. This method works best for soups that contain dairy or meat, as it minimizes the risk of bacterial growth.

Cold water thawing is effective for those in a hurry; however, it requires more attention to ensure that the water remains cold and the soup stays sealed to prevent contamination. This method is suitable for most soups, but you should always ensure the container is watertight.

Microwave thawing can be beneficial when time is limited, but care must be taken to monitor the soup to avoid partially cooking it. It’s best to use microwave-safe containers and stir the soup regularly to distribute the heat evenly.

Direct heating is convenient for those who prefer to skip the thawing step entirely, but it requires patience and consistent stirring, especially if the soup is thick. This method is often used for hearty soups or stews, ensuring they reach an appropriate temperature before serving.

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