Quick Homemade Vegetable Soup
A hearty and flavorful vegetable soup featuring ground beef, tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4 or 5-quart pan, brown ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes; drain fat.
- Add stewed tomatoes, beef broth, water, basil, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil; lower heat and simmer, partially covered, for 10 minutes.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables and small pasta shapes.
- Cook, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Stir in minced parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or beans. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped fresh vegetables or frozen mixed vegetables to speed up prep. For a gluten-free option, replace small pasta shapes with quinoa or omit them altogether. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the flavor, making this recipe versatile. Explore other beef recipes for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside a dish like Savory Meat Ball Casserole for a comforting family dinner. For a lighter option, a fresh fruit salad complements the soup nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup's consistency. Heat over medium on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Homemade Vegetable Soup contains roughly 681 calories, with 35g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1313mg per serving (57% 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 soup?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chickpeas instead of meat, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when browning the beef. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a little kick.
What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and add them when you include the frozen mixed vegetables for even cooking.
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).