21 Early-Fall Soups That Aren’t Too Heavy For September

September sits in that in-between space where summer isn’t gone but fall is already showing up. You’ve still got late summer produce like tomatoes, peppers and corn hanging around while squash and root vegetables start piling up at the market. That overlap makes it the perfect time for lighter soups that pull from both seasons. They’re hearty enough to feel like dinner but not so heavy that you need a nap afterward. These recipes are easy enough for busy weeknights and still special enough for a slower weekend. They strike the balance between fresh and comforting which is exactly what September calls for.

Pumpkin Potato Soup

This pumpkin potato soup blends into a silky base right in your blender. It’s easy to make, filling without being too heavy, and a smart way to use early fall produce. A bowl of this on a September evening feels just right when the air cools down.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Potato Soup

Buttercup Squash Soup

Buttercup squash usually gets overlooked but it shines in this smooth soup. Coconut milk and lime add a brightness that works well when the weather’s still mild. It’s a fresh way to enjoy fall flavor without weighing down dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buttercup Squash Soup

Creamy Coconut Delicata Squash Soup

Delicata squash cooks into a naturally sweet soup and the coconut brings out that flavor even more. It’s creamy and smooth yet still light enough for a September lunch. This is one of those soups that comes together fast and tastes great with a slice of bread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Delicata Squash Soup

Creamy Ginger Kabocha Squash Soup

Kabocha squash paired with ginger and cinnamon makes a bowl that’s both comforting and bold. Topping it with cherry drizzle and pecans adds crunch and contrast. It’s hearty enough to feel like a meal but still not too rich for early fall.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ginger Kabocha Squash Soup

Leek Apple Cheddar Soup

This soup mixes the sweetness of leeks and apples with sharp cheddar for a flavor that fits September perfectly. Walnuts and cranberries on top bring a nice balance of crunch and tartness. It’s the kind of soup that feels just right for lunch or dinner when the air starts to cool.
Get the Recipe: Leek Apple Cheddar Soup

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Let the slow cooker handle this butternut squash soup while you go about your day. It turns into a creamy fall classic with barely any effort. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something seasonal without hovering over the stove.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

This sweet potato soup gets a kick from ginger, garlic and a touch of cayenne. It’s smooth, simple, and the kind of bowl that hits the spot when September evenings start to cool down.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

Instant Pot Potato Leek Soup

The Instant Pot makes this potato leek soup extra easy. Potatoes cook into a silky base and mild leeks add flavor without overpowering. It’s quick, filling, and a solid dinner option that doesn’t feel too heavy for early fall.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Potato Leek Soup

Panera Thai Style Chicken Soup Recipe

This copycat Thai chicken soup simmers tender chicken in a sweet and spicy coconut broth. It’s ready in under an hour and feels fresh enough for September but still warming when you want comfort in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Panera Thai Style Chicken Soup Recipe

Southwestern Chicken Soup

This soup brings bold southwestern flavor with chicken, peppers and spices that keep it hearty without going over the top. It’s simple to make and perfect when you want a quick dinner that tastes bigger than the effort it takes.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Soup

Carrot and Celery Soup

Carrots and celery make this soup light but still full of flavor. It’s loaded with veggies like leeks and sweet carrots, and it’s great with fresh bread for dipping. It’s one of those simple bowls that feels nourishing without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Carrot and Celery Soup

Escarole Soup

Escarole, beans, sausage and pasta simmer in a garlicky broth for a classic Italian-style soup. It’s hearty enough to feed the family but not so heavy that it feels out of place in September. It works just as well for Sunday dinner as it does for a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Escarole Soup

Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Tortellini and tomatoes cook fast in the Instant Pot and the result is a creamy soup packed with cheese and basil. It’s ready in no time and has that comforting flavor that makes it perfect for early fall dinners.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Super Easy Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup

Red lentils break down quickly in the Instant Pot so this soup comes together fast. It’s hearty and packed with protein which makes it a smart pick when you want something filling but still light enough for September.
Get the Recipe: Super Easy Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup

Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

Navy beans, vegetables and broth cook quickly under pressure for a soup that’s rich and satisfying. It’s a family favorite that works well for weeknight dinners and gives you that comfort without being overdone.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

Easy Pumpkin Carrot Soup

Pumpkin and carrots roast together on a sheet tray so there’s very little chopping or cleanup. Herbs bring fresh flavor and the result is a smooth soup that works for lunch or dinner. It’s a clever way to get a fall-forward meal on the table with almost no work.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Carrot Soup

Easy Creamy Taco Soup

This soup takes everything you like about tacos and serves it in a bowl. Ground beef, corn and beans sit in a creamy tomato base that feels hearty and fun without being too heavy. It’s perfect for those cooler September nights when you want something bold.
Get the Recipe: Easy Creamy Taco Soup

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Homemade Pesto Croutons

Roasted tomatoes give this soup a deep flavor and the pesto croutons add crunch and freshness. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but still feels special when you want to slow down with a bowl that tastes like fall.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Homemade Pesto Croutons

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna in soup form means all the classic flavors with way less effort. Pasta, sauce and cheese come together in a bowl that’s hearty but easier than making a pan of the real thing. It’s a great way to get comfort without the work.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash & Bacon Soup

Roasted butternut squash brings natural sweetness while bacon adds a savory edge. The two balance each other for a soup that feels rich but not too heavy. It’s a perfect match for cooler September evenings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash & Bacon Soup

Greek Lemon Rice Soup

This soup gets its creamy texture from rice and its bright flavor from lemon and dill. It’s comforting yet refreshing which makes it a great fit for early fall. It’s the kind of bowl you’ll want when you need something filling but still light.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Rice Soup