Walk through any grocery store and you’ll find nearly endless options in terms of instant, pre-prepared, and microwave meals. But by far one of the best and most enduring is the humble can of soup. Condensed soups, which were invented in 1897, have been a consistent staple in almost every cupboard in America since. It’s not hard to see why. They’re inexpensive, filling, and they keep for a very long time, making them good to have on hand as emergency supplies. Plus, they take a couple minutes to make, which is why they’re good to have in the ever-busy times in which we live.
Campbell’s, the brand that first introduced canned soup, still makes many of the best options. But these days, their offerings go far beyond the basic tomato and chicken noodle soups you may have spent sick days eating. There are now countless varieties of Campbell’s, including their popular and hearty line of Chunky soups. Many other brands also offer their unique take on the staple. Some brands, like Amy’s, focus on using organic and vegan ingredients. Others experiment with unique flavors, and there are many options that cut down on excessive sodium. Another change from the typical canned soup is that many of them aren’t even canned or condensed anymore. Many newer soups come in microwavable bowls, making them a perfect lunch option for offices that may not have stoves. So, while a canned soup will never quite be able to compete with a home-brewed broth from grandma, they can come pretty darn close.
Buying bulk soups can cut down on the cost, ensuring that you’ll have enough lunch for the next couple of years (or weeks, if you really love soup). We’ve rounded up some of our favorite options, including classics like Campbells and Progreso, as well as some newer soup brands.
1. Campbell’s Chunky Soup
Campbell’s microwavable Chunky soups come in a ton of different flavors, and this listing lets you choose between a few different ones. This option is Chicken & Dumplings. It has 15 grams of protein per bowl, making it a hearty lunch option to power you through the day. All you need to prepare the soup is a microwave, you don’t even need to add water to the bowl to prepare it. Each order ships with eight single-serve meals.
Pros: Easy to prepare, a microwave is the only thing that’s needed. It’s also a protein-rich, with 15 grams per bowl. Available in many flavors, and Campbell’s Chunky soups are richer and heartier than the condensed options.
Cons: The microwave options are considerably more expensive than Campbell’s canned condensed options.
2. Amy’s No Chicken Noodle Soup
Amy’s focuses on making vegan and organic canned soups. This “no-chicken” chicken soup substitutes tofu for chicken. The soup is filled with other vegetables like carrots, onions, celery, and leeks. All of the ingredients are organic and non-GMO. Amy’s also offers a wide variety of soup flavors, which are available from this listing. Each order consists of 12 14.1-ounce cans.
Pros: Good option for those looking for vegan and organic soups. Wide range of flavors are available, and each order consists of 12 cans, making it easy to stock up.
Cons: The average can of Amy’s is more expensive than the average Campbell’s or Progresso soup.
3. Progresso Soup, Traditional, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo Soup
To get really good gumbo, you’ll have to travel to Louisiana. But you can still bring some of that delicious taste into your home or office with Progreso’s Chicken and Sausage Gumbo. Each order consists of 12, 19-ounce cans. Progresso’s soups, in general, are not condensed. This means that you’re not supposed to add additional water. Instead, heat what’s in the can in a pot or a microwave-safe bowl and serve.
Pros: Rich and unique flavors made with natural ingredients. Progresso has multiple flavorful options, including this chicken and sausage gumbo. Some of these flavors are harder to find in grocery stores, which is why these selections from Amazon can be a good option.
Cons: Some may prefer a variety pack.