Frozen Ground Beef Soup
A hearty and comforting soup featuring ground beef and mixed vegetables in a savory tomato base. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers rich flavors with subtle seasoning. Easy to prepare and satisfying, this dish warms the soul on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a heavy container with a lid.
- Cook until the ground beef is done, about 30 minutes.
- Chop the cooked meat into large pieces.
- Put the lid back on and cook for about 20 minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils, which can boost protein and fiber. If you don't have mixed soup vegetables, you can substitute with frozen peas, carrots, and corn. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; adding garlic powder or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor. Using leftover cooked ground beef from a recipe like Bacon Stuffed Burgers can save time too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top can add richness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Quick Skillet Meal for a satisfying dinner. For added freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or croutons.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if the soup thickens. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Ground Beef Soup contains roughly 639 calories, with 10g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1911mg per serving (83% 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 fresh ground beef instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ground beef can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to brown it before adding it to the pot to enhance the flavor. This will also reduce the overall cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sauté fresh jalapeños with the onions for a fresher kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference, keeping in mind that more can always be added later.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be made in large batches. Portion it out into containers to enjoy throughout the week, making it a convenient option for busy days.
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).