Favorite Soup
A hearty and comforting soup with meat, potatoes, macaroni, and corn, perfect for family dinners and cold days, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef or use cubed ham in a large pot.
- Add potatoes, macaroni, and seasonings (salt and pepper).
- Cook until vegetables and pasta are tender.
- Last, add corn and cook for a few more minutes.
- Just before serving, add a little milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or celery along with the onion when browning the meat. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. If you want a creamier texture, try adding a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Favorite Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Picnic Punch, making it perfect for gatherings. To enhance the flavor, top with freshly grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream. You could also serve it with a side of Pickles From Ripe Cucumbers for a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Soup contains roughly 1941 calories, with 127g protein, 293g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (411% of the Daily Value), protein (254% of the Daily Value), and iron (192% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1093mg per serving (48% 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 different types of meat in this soup?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for varied flavors. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey is a great substitute. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as needed to fully cook the meat.
Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead, as the flavors develop further with time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when ready to serve. If you’re planning to freeze it, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy upon reheating.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to spice up their individual bowls. Just be cautious with the amount, as you can always add more but can't take it back!
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).