Quick And Hearty Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup combining ground beef, tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers comforting richness with simple ingredients and bold flavors. Suitable for families and busy cooks seeking a satisfying, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef; drain off excess fat.
- Cut up the tomatoes slightly.
- Add the beef, tomatoes, mixed vegetables, water, onion soup mix, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or onions before adding the beef. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Using fresh vegetables instead of frozen can enhance texture and freshness. If you want a creamier soup, stir in some cream or cheese at the end. This soup can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, top each bowl with shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with the Best Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner spread. Consider serving with a side of garlic toast or biscuits for a cozy touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency, as the macaroni may absorb liquid. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Hearty Soup contains roughly 50 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1345mg per serving (58% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little water if needed.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a side of your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy extra spice in their soup.
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).