Mamaw'S Soup(Healthy And Kids Love It!)
A hearty, kid-friendly soup with ground turkey, creamy tomato sauce, beans, and pasta, offering comforting flavors suitable for family dinners and healthy eating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground turkey in a large pot.
- Add dried or fresh chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add tomato sauce and pureed red kidney beans to the pot.
- Stir in chili powder and cook for a few minutes.
- Add water to fill half the pot, bring to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook on medium heat until pasta is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey instead of beef, which reduces fat content. Fresh onions can be substituted with onion powder if you’re short on time. If you enjoy a kick, add more chili powder or even diced jalapeños. This soup can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or lentils. For a heartier dish, include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup hot with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Turkey Potato Patties for a hearty family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. This soup also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamaw'S Soup(Healthy And Kids Love It!) contains roughly 180 calories, with 19g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. At about 180 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground turkey or beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat you choose.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding more chili powder or incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to add their own spice.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, this soup is designed to be appealing for kids! The mild flavors and fun shape of elbow macaroni make it a hit. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your child's taste, and they may even enjoy helping you add toppings like cheese or croutons.
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).