Busy Day Soup is a comforting, one-pot meal that comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for those hectic days when you need something hearty and delicious but don’t have a lot of time to cook. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, this soup is filling, flavorful, and can easily be customized with what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey or chicken)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or any of your choice)
- 1 cup pasta (small shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or shells)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
- Stir in the pasta and continue simmering for another 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
- If the soup becomes too thick as the pasta cooks, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the pasta is tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Cook Notes
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or ditalini work well in this soup. If you prefer, you can cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
- Broth: You can use beef, chicken, or vegetable broth depending on what you have on hand.
- Ground Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.
Variations
- Vegetarian Busy Day Soup: Use vegetable broth and substitute the ground meat with a can of drained and rinsed beans (like kidney beans or chickpeas) for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Busy Day Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Creamy Busy Day Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a creamy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water if the pasta absorbs too much liquid.
Can I freeze Busy Day Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when frozen. Freeze the soup base in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the soup, then cook and add fresh pasta.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, green beans, spinach, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
Can I use canned vegetables?
Yes, if you prefer canned vegetables, simply add them during the last few minutes of cooking, as they are already softened and only need to be warmed through.
What can I serve with Busy Day Soup?
This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a more filling meal.
Busy Day Soup is the perfect solution when you need a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal. Made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, this one-pot soup comes together in no time and is easily customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a meal-prep option, this soup is a comforting choice for any busy day
