Busy Day Soup

This Busy Day Soup is the ultimate comfort food for those days when you’re craving something hearty, easy, and quick to make. Packed with veggies, tender meat, and a flavorful broth, it’s a simple yet delicious soup that requires minimal prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for busy nights or as a make-ahead meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Busy Day Soup:

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep time. ✔ Hearty & Filling – A satisfying meal that will keep you full and warm. ✔ Versatile – You can use whatever vegetables or meat you have on hand. ✔ Family-Friendly – Everyone will love this comforting, flavorful soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or sausage) – For a protein-packed base.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the broth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic boost.
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth) – The base of the soup.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds richness and a little tang.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – Convenient and colorful!
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced – Adds heartiness and texture.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For a savory herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a slight smoky kick.
• Salt & pepper to taste – To season the soup.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the meat and vegetables.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife

How to Make Busy Day Soup:

Step 1: Cook the Meat

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef (or turkey/sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Once browned, remove any excess fat from the pot.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Broth

5. Stir in the diced potato and frozen mixed vegetables.
6. Pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth) and add the diced tomatoes with their juices.
7. Season with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

8. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

9. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

10. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping!

What to Serve with Busy Day Soup:

• Crusty bread – A perfect way to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Cheese toast – For an extra cheesy touch alongside the soup.
• Side salad – A light, fresh contrast to the hearty soup.

Tips for the Best Busy Day Soup:

• Use leftover cooked meat – If you have leftover cooked chicken or beef, you can easily use that instead of ground meat for a quicker option.
• Add more veggies – Feel free to throw in any other vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini, corn, or green beans.
• Make it spicy – If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
• Make it vegetarian – Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version.

Storing and Reheating:

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Reheat – Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q2: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh vegetables work just as well. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot with the potatoes.

Q3: Can I make this soup spicier?
A: Definitely! You can add chili powder, hot sauce, or more jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Conclusion:

This Busy Day Soup is perfect for those times when you need a comforting and satisfying meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s full of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re using it to use up leftovers or make a quick meal, this soup will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 5g | Sodium: 650mg

Enjoy this easy, cozy soup whenever you’re short on time but want a delicious homemade meal!

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