This Busy Day Soup is a lifesaver for hectic evenings, combining hearty ground beef, pasta, and veggies in a flavorful broth. It’s easy, filling, and ready in no time—perfect for busy nights.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 1 lb, browned and drained to add savory flavor and protein
- Onion Soup Mix: 1 packet for quick seasoning and depth
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 1 ¾ cups, adding color and nutrients
- Water: 5 cups, to create the soup base
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can, with juice, for tangy richness
- Macaroni: 1 cup, uncooked, to make the soup heartier
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large soup pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup lighter.
- Step 2:
- Add 5 cups of water to the pot along with the onion soup mix and the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir to combine.
- Step 3:
- Allow the soup to simmer on medium-low heat for about 1 hour. This will help the flavors blend and create a rich broth.
- Step 4:
- After an hour, add the frozen mixed vegetables and uncooked macaroni to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Step 5:
- Cook for an additional 15 minutes on medium heat, or until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Step 6:
- Once ready, serve the soup hot. Enjoy this quick and hearty meal!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency.
- For freezing, let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful Notes
- For a heartier soup, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add your favorite vegetables or swap out the macaroni for other pasta types like rotini or small shells.
- To lower the sodium content, use a reduced-sodium onion soup mix and tomatoes.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends seasoning the ground beef with a little salt and pepper while browning to enhance the flavor.
- For a smoother broth, Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests simmering the soup slowly to bring out the flavors of the beef and vegetables.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for busy days, this soup is quick to prepare and hearty enough for a full meal.
- The combination of pasta, ground beef, and vegetables creates a comforting and filling dish.
- It's easily customizable with different vegetables or seasonings based on what you have on hand.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the soup a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a creamy, cheesy soup.