"Venus De Milo" Minestrone Soup
Hearty minestrone with beef, tomatoes, and pasta for a comforting, protein‑rich meal that satisfies families and casual diners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown 1 lb. lean hamburger over medium heat.
- Add 1 large (46 oz.) can College Inn chicken broth, 1 qt. water, 1 pkg. Lipton onion soup mix, and 2 chopped celery stalks; bring to a boil.
- Boil for 20 minutes.
- Add 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can stewed tomatoes and 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables; continue boiling for 15 minutes.
- Add 1/2 to 1 cup small pasta; boil until pasta is cooked through.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top when served, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding beans such as cannellini or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor. Adjust the amount of pasta based on your preference for thickness; more pasta will make the soup thicker and more like a stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this minestrone soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving alongside American recipes like the 5 Can Chicken Or Turkey Casserole or Kings Ranch Chicken Casserole for a delightful family feast.
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. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Venus De Milo" Minestrone Soup contains roughly 246 calories, with 12g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (78% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1429mg per serving (62% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to lean hamburger and will work well in this recipe. It provides a lighter option with similar flavor. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until browned before adding the other ingredients.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the hamburger and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables or beans to enhance the flavor and texture, ensuring a hearty meal without meat.
What type of small pasta works best in this recipe?
Small pasta varieties like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even orzo work well in minestrone soup. Choose your favorite based on texture preference; just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used, so it doesn't overcook.
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).