Paula'S Meat Soup
A hearty, flavorful meat soup with tender ground beef, vegetables, and barley, perfect for comforting family meals and chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Combine all ingredients in a large soup pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer for 2 hours until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade beef broth instead of water and bouillon cubes. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste; try adding thyme or oregano. If you're short on time, precooked barley can be used, reducing the cooking time significantly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is perfect as a standalone meal, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dinner. For a comforting touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with grated cheese. You can also explore other hearty American recipes for more side options.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paula'S Meat Soup contains roughly 514 calories, with 15g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (143% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (55% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen vegetables in this soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a great option and can save you prep time. Just add them towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when you combine the ingredients. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference for a personalized touch.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef first, then transfer it to a slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious and easy meal.
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).