Pin it
This filling No-Fuss Soup has been my go-to during crazy weeknights when making fancy dinners just isn't gonna happen. It needs barely any work and uses basic stuff you probably have, giving you tasty comfort food without tying you to the stove all evening.
I came up with this soup during an insanely busy week when my family still needed decent dinners despite my packed calendar. It got its name when my husband couldn't believe I'd thrown together such a tasty soup on such a hectic day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: this forms the backbone of our soup, giving you plenty of protein and rich taste
- 1 packet onion soup mix: your time-saving trick that packs tons of flavor without any chopping
- 1 ¾ cups mixed frozen vegetables: quick nutrition upgrade – just grab whatever mix your family likes
- 5 cups water: makes the perfect soup base – add more if you want it thinner
- 1 can diced tomatoes (28oz): brings a nice tang and chunky texture to your broth
- 1 cup uncooked macaroni: bulks up the soup while soaking up all the yummy flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Get your Dutch oven hot over medium high heat and toss in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Keep going until you don't see any pink, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Pour off the extra fat so your soup won't be greasy.
- Create the Soup Base:
- Put the pot back on the heat and pour in water, onion soup mix, and the whole can of diced tomatoes with all their juice. Give it a good stir, making sure to scrape up any stuck bits from the bottom since they pack tons of flavor. Let it come to a gentle boil, then turn down the heat to medium low and let it bubble away uncovered for 1 hour so all the flavors can get friendly.
- Add Pasta and Vegetables:
- After your base has simmered, turn the heat up to medium and dump in the uncooked macaroni and frozen mixed veggies straight from the bag. Don't bother thawing them first. Stir now and then so the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom. Cook about 15 minutes until the pasta gets soft and the veggies are hot.
Pin it
That onion soup mix really is the secret weapon here. My grandma always told me good cooking sometimes needs shortcuts, and this little packet turns basic ingredients into something that tastes like it's been cooking forever. Whenever I make this soup, my family shows up at the table without me having to call them twice.
Storing Leftovers
This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors get cozier together. Just pop leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta will soak up more liquid making everything thicker. When you warm it up, just add a splash of water or broth to thin it out, then heat it on the stove or in the microwave until it's nice and hot.
Customizing Your Soup
Don't be afraid to switch things up based on what you've got in your kitchen. Ground turkey works great if you want something lighter than beef. Try Italian or ranch seasoning packets instead of onion mix for a totally different taste. Any small pasta shape will do fine, not just macaroni. Toss in a can of beans or a handful of spinach during the last few minutes for extra goodness.
Serving Suggestions
While this soup can totally stand alone as a meal, I often throw in some crusty bread or quick grilled cheese sandwiches for dunking. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or some fresh herbs really makes it look fancy. When I'm feeding a crowd, I keep it warm in a slow cooker and set up a little topping station with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs for everyone to dress up their bowls.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch out the beef?
Sure, go for ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless option like plant-based crumbles.
- → What veggies should I use in this soup?
Pick frozen veggie blends like corn, peas, or carrots. Fresh ones work great too.
- → How do I keep leftovers fresh?
Cool the soup down fully, then pop it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- → Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yep! Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- → What are good macaroni substitutes?
Use small pasta like shells, penne, or even rice to change things up.