Busy Day Soup is the epitome of comfort food, designed for those hectic days when time is scarce but the need for a hearty meal is immense. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, combining ground beef, mixed vegetables, and pasta in a savory broth for a meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 ¾ cup mixed frozen vegetables
- 5 cups water
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup uncooked macaroni
Preparation
Step 1: Start by heating a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it's browned, making sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from being too greasy.
Step 3: Pour 5 cups of water into the pot with the browned beef. Add the packet of onion soup mix and the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 hour. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
Step 5: After the soup has simmered for about 45 minutes, add the frozen mixed vegetables and the uncooked macaroni to the pot. Continue simmering for another 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
COOKING Note
The simmering process is crucial for developing the soup’s flavor, so don’t rush it. The longer it simmers, the more developed the flavors will be. Adjust the seasoning if needed, depending on the saltiness of the onion soup mix and tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Busy Day Soup hot, with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. It’s filling enough to serve as a main course and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Tips
- For a healthier version, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey or chicken.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes, depending on what you have on hand.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage, making it a great make-ahead meal option.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour and 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22 grams
- Sodium: 700 mg
Busy Day Soup is a versatile and forgiving recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes and the ingredients you have available. It's a reliable go-to meal for those times when you need something nourishing and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation, providing comfort and warmth on the busiest of days.
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