Snowy Day Soup
A hearty, comforting tomato-based soup loaded with vegetables and ground beef, perfect for cold days and family dinners, offering rich flavors and satisfying warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot, then drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the beef and sauté until translucent.
- Pour in the tomato juice and bring to a simmer.
- Add the canned peas, corn, sliced carrots, and peeled, cubed potatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup for 1 to 2 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, try incorporating garlic or herbs like thyme and bay leaves while the soup simmers. If you're short on time, consider using frozen vegetables instead of canned ones for a fresher taste. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add beans for extra protein and fiber. This soup can be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting lunch. For an extra touch, top each bowl with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. It also makes a great starter for a winter gathering or family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowy Day Soup contains roughly 1094 calories, with 30g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (282% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1297mg per serving (56% 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 different vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as green beans, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side so everyone can customize their spice level.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
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).