Description
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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Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey/sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once browned, remove any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
- 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
- Stir in the diced potato and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth) and add the diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Season with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- 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
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping!
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American