Zesty Vegetable Soup
A hearty, flavorful vegetable soup with ground beef, tomatoes, and noodles, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a large pot.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add beef broth, canned tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and medium egg noodles to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until flavors meld and noodles are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. If you prefer more texture, consider adding diced potatoes or beans. Make sure to season gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Zesty Vegetable Soup is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious touch. For a heartier option, serve alongside a slice of 'Old Hearty' Cottage Supper for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Vegetable Soup contains roughly 629 calories, with 22g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg per serving (76% 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?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you're ready to serve. If making ahead, consider undercooking the noodles slightly, as they will continue to soften when reheated.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
If you want a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It will still provide a rich flavor. For a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium broth varieties or make your own broth from scratch using vegetables and herbs.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
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).