Hodgepodge Soup
A hearty, comforting soup blending ground beef, vegetables, and beans with savory herbs, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle with celery seed and simmer for at least 1 hour.
- It's nice to prepare in a crock-pot for convenience.
- May also be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the ground beef with the onions and garlic before adding them to the soup. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian twist. If you like a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the overall taste. This Hodgepodge Soup is versatile and can incorporate whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hodgepodge Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Hot Cheese Loaf for a comforting dinner. For a hearty breakfast option, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs. You could also sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This soup retains its flavor and texture well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hodgepodge Soup contains roughly 804 calories, with 28g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (208% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1290mg per serving (56% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground beef. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try using lentils or beans instead of meat, which will complement the soup's flavors nicely.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for individual heat preferences.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Hodgepodge Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.
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).