Beef And Rice Soup
Hearty beef and rice soup combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and fresh vegetables in a comforting broth, perfect for a filling family meal or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef and drain off excess fat.
- Stir in 4 cups of water, the dry onion soup, and remaining ingredients.
- Bring to boiling over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground turkey to lighten the dish. If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can substitute the long grain rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly. This recipe is versatile; feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or peas for a more nutritious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef and rice soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with cornbread, making it a great option for a cozy dinner. For a heartier feast, consider serving it alongside Stuffed Green Pepper for a delicious combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup is too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Rice Soup contains roughly 127 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I use instead of beef bouillon cubes?
If you don’t have beef bouillon cubes, you can use homemade beef broth or stock as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make the soup more filling, consider adding beans such as kidney or black beans, which will enhance the protein content. You can also increase the amount of rice or add potatoes for a heartier texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).