Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this soup is perfect for busy schedules.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s both convenient and budget-friendly.
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, pasta, and vegetables makes for a filling meal.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Onion soup mix
- Diced tomatoes
- Water or broth
- Frozen mixed vegetables
- Macaroni pasta
Directions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Soup Base Ingredients: Stir in the onion soup mix, diced tomatoes, and water or broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Incorporate Pasta and Vegetables: Add the macaroni and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Continue cooking over medium heat for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked to your liking, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables or beans for a meatless version.
- Pasta Choices: Use other pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne to suit your preference.
- Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Note that pasta may become softer after freezing and reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs
What is Busy Day Soup?
Busy Day Soup is a quick and easy one-pot meal combining ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a savory broth, ideal for busy schedules.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
What other types of pasta can I use?
You can use any small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
Consider adding herbs like basil or oregano, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or using beef broth instead of water.
Is it okay to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used; adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely, this soup reheats well and can be made ahead for convenience.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente and avoid overcooking when reheating.
What can I serve with Busy Day Soup?
Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used as alternatives to ground beef.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Busy Day Soup is a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for hectic days. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it delivers comfort and nourishment in every bowl. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a hearty dish that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Busy Day Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Busy Day Soup is the ultimate comfort food for hectic schedules. This one-pot meal, featuring ground beef, tender pasta, and mixed vegetables in a savory broth, is quick to prepare, hearty, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s a convenient and satisfying dish your whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. - Add Soup Base Ingredients:
Stir in onion soup mix, diced tomatoes, and water or broth. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and let the flavors meld for about 20 minutes. - Incorporate Pasta and Vegetables:
Add macaroni pasta and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and vegetables are heated through. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs like basil or oregano.
- To avoid mushy pasta, add it closer to serving time or cook separately and combine when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
