The Best French Soups to Make Ahead for Busy Weeks

French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and soups are no exception. Making a big pot of soup can be a lifesaver during busy weeks, providing nourishing meals that can be easily reheated. Here are some of the best French soups to make ahead, ensuring you have a taste of France on your table, even on the busiest days.

1. French Onion Soup
French onion soup is a classic filled with caramelized onions, savory broth, and topped with melted cheese. To make this soup ahead of time, cook the onions slowly until they're golden brown, then add beef or vegetable broth and allow it to simmer. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Store the soup and the toasted bread with cheese separately, and assemble when ready to eat.

2. Soupe au Pistou
This Provençal vegetable soup is packed with seasonal vegetables, beans, and the vibrant flavors of pistou (a basil-based sauce similar to pesto). Make a large batch of the soup and freeze it in portions. When you're ready to eat, simply heat and stir in fresh pistou for an aromatic boost. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

3. Vichyssoise
This creamy, chilled potato and leek soup is ideal for hot summer days but can also be enjoyed year-round. Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Serve it garnished with fresh chives for a refreshing meal. The flavor develops beautifully after a day in the refrigerator, making it a delightful option for busy week lunches.

4. Bouillabaisse
Bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew that draws on the bounties of the sea. Although it requires a few more steps, preparing it in advance can make it a perfect weeknight meal. Prepare the broth and let it simmer with various seafood, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it through and enjoy with crusty bread.

5. Potato Leek Soup (Potage Parmentier)
This creamy soup is an excellent comfort food. Simply simmer diced potatoes and leeks until tender, then blend until smooth. It can be made in large batches and frozen. When you need a quick meal, reheat on the stovetop and add a swirl of cream for extra richness.

6. Ratatouille Soup
This soup version of the classic ratatouille is bursting with flavors from eggplants, zucchinis, peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered together. Making this soup ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Freeze it in portions, and heat it up whenever you need a wholesome and satisfying dish.

7. Cream of Tomato Soup (Soupe de Tomates)
For a French twist on the classic tomato soup, create a creamy and flavorful version by roasting tomatoes with garlic, onion, and herbs, then blending it all with cream. This soup freezes well and can be a quick reheat solution for lunches or weeknight dinners. Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.

Making French soups ahead of time not only saves you effort on busy weekdays but also allows you to enjoy the depth of flavors typical of French cuisine. Stock your freezer with these delightful soups, and you’ll always have a comforting bowl ready to serve. Bon appétit!