Working Man'S Soup
Hearty and flavorful, this working man's soup combines beef, beans, and vegetables for a filling meal perfect for cold days or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Combine the browned onion, ground beef, minestrone soup, Ranch Style beans, tomato paste or sauce, and canned tomatoes in a large pot.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh garlic and bell peppers along with the onion. If you're short on time, you can replace the canned tomatoes with a jar of your favorite salsa. For a healthier version, try using ground turkey instead of beef. This dish can also benefit from a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. A simple side salad can provide freshness and balance the richness of the soup. It pairs beautifully with Roast Venison And Gravy for a robust dinner spread, or you can serve it alongside a light appetizer like a Horseradish Cheese Ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Working Man'S Soup contains roughly 1259 calories, with 53g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (106% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1301mg 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 make Working Man's Soup in advance?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the flavors will meld and intensify, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. This will give you a delicious vegetarian version of the soup while still maintaining its hearty texture.
What are some good toppings for this soup?
Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions as toppings to enhance the flavor. Crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a nice crunch and freshness to 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).