When the air turns crisp and sweaters come out of hiding, there’s nothing better than soup season—and what better way to celebrate it than by gathering your people for a cozy Soup Swap?

This laid-back, low-stress event is perfect for a weeknight or lazy weekend evening. Each guest brings a soup to share, you set the stage with warm lighting and a toppings bar, and suddenly your home is filled with the sounds (and smells!) of fall.

Whether your crew is bringing chili in slow cookers or creamy bisques in mason jars, this is one of those events that feels equal parts nourishing and nostalgic.

🥣 Why It Works

  • It’s effortless entertaining: Guests do most of the cooking.
  • Built-in variety: Everyone gets to try something new—and maybe take home a new favorite recipe.
  • It’s budget-friendly: One batch of soup feeds many!
  • Soup is the ultimate comfort food: Enough said.
  • Perfect for all diets: Vegan? Spicy? Creamy? Brothy? Everyone wins.

🧂 How to Host Your Own Soup Swap

Invite guests to bring their favorite soup
Encourage them to bring soups in slow cookers (for easy serving) or large mason jars (for a takeaway option). You can offer a crockpot parking lot on your counter with extension cords or ladle-ready bowls displayed with labels.

Create a toppings bar
A fun and interactive element that makes each bowl feel custom. Stock it with:

  • Croutons (bonus points for flavored ones)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, goat cheese)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Hot sauces and chili oil

Add recipe cards
Ask each guest to print a few copies or provide blank recipe cards for sharing. Here’s a few blank recipe cards for printing::

Send guests home with leftovers
Offer disposable containers or encourage reusable jars. This way, everyone leaves with a fridge full of cozy meals for the week ahead.

🍲 Soup Ideas to Suggest

Not everyone may know what to bring—so help them out with this handy list and a note about apple or fall flavor pairings where applicable:

  • Classic Tomato Basil (serve with mini grilled cheeses)
  • Creamy Potato Leek (top with crispy shallots)
  • White Chicken Chili (great with a squeeze of lime and cilantro)
  • Roasted Butternut Squash (pairs beautifully with toasted pepitas)
  • Broccoli Cheddar (crowd-pleasing and filling)
  • Minestrone (a great vegan option)
  • Beef & Barley or French Onion (serve with crusty bread on the side)

Don’t forget to include a dessert-style soup option like warm apple cider or pumpkin bisque for something unexpected.

✨ Cozy Extras

Atmosphere Tips

  • Add twinkle lights, candles, or even mini pumpkins for a fall-forward vibe.
  • Play a cozy playlist (try “Fall Coffeehouse” or “Acoustic Autumn” on Spotify).

Bonus Favor Idea

Wrap a wooden soup spoon with twine and tag that says: “Thanks for stirring up good times!”

🔗 Keep the Cozy Going

Looking for more fall hosting ideas?