School Soup
Hearty and comforting, this school-inspired tomato and vegetable soup with ground beef is perfect for a satisfying family meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced tomatoes, Veg-All, tomato sauce, chopped onion, diced potatoes, browned ground beef, water, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about an hour.
- Stir in margarine before serving for added richness.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also swap out the Veg-All for fresh mixed vegetables such as carrots, peas, and corn. Adjust the sugar according to the acidity of the tomatoes. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a cozy dinner, consider serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a slice of cornbread. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days and can be enjoyed as a hearty lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also use a microwave-safe container to reheat individual portions. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of School Soup contains roughly 2433 calories, with 25g protein, 233g carbohydrates, and 160g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (140% of the Daily Value), potassium (89% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the potatoes, as they may become mushy upon thawing.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you want to add more protein without meat, consider incorporating beans like kidney or black beans, which will also add texture and flavor to the soup.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery?
If the soup is too watery, you can thicken it by mashing some of the potatoes directly in the pot or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken. Another option is to add a can of drained beans or lentils, which will absorb some liquid and enhance the heartiness of the dish.
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).