Chopped Meat Soup
A hearty, savory soup featuring ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and vegetables, perfect for comforting meals that appeal to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Pour off excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add tomato sauce, water, beef bouillon cubes, drained chickpeas, drained mixed vegetables, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add raw macaroni to the soup.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Serve hot with grated cheese and Italian bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or other vegetables like carrots or celery. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also experiment with spices; adding a bit of paprika or cayenne can enhance the flavor. This dish can easily be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Chopped meat soup is delicious served hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top. Pair it with crusty Italian bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with a slice of Cowboy Cornbread for a comforting touch. For a more filling option, serve it alongside a side of Pot Pasta for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chopped meat soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot or warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water if the soup has thickened. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chopped Meat Soup contains roughly 831 calories, with 34g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% 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 use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if using a leaner meat to avoid overcooking.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add additional water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to heat through. You can also add more canned vegetables or cooked pasta to help balance the texture.
Is this soup freezable?
Absolutely! Chopped meat soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
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).