Thick Tomato-Vegetable-Beef Soup
A hearty, flavorful tomato and vegetable beef soup with pasta and rice, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in 1 cup water in a saucepan until tender and water evaporates, stirring frequently.
- Add vegetable-beef soup and 1 can of water; mix well.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add rice, tomato soup, remaining can of water, and salt; mix well.
- Simmer until rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers while cooking the macaroni. If you want a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can make a great addition. For a healthier twist, substitute whole wheat macaroni and brown rice for the regular versions. This soup is versatile, allowing you to throw in leftover vegetables or even cooked protein, making it similar to the popular Barbecue Hamburger Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Deviled Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, garnish with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of croutons on top adds a delightful crunch and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thick Tomato-Vegetable-Beef Soup contains roughly 247 calories, with 9g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2362mg per serving (103% 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 other types of soup in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different canned soups! For example, swapping the vegetable-beef soup for chicken noodle soup can create a lighter flavor. Just ensure the flavors complement each other. You can also try using homemade versions for a fresher taste.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the vegetable-beef soup and substitute it with vegetable broth or a hearty vegetable soup. You can also add more vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn to enhance the texture and nutrition.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup turns out thinner than desired, you can thicken it by adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until it thickens. Alternatively, you could simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
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).