Busy Day Soup
Busy Day Soup is the ultimate one-pot, no-fuss meal for hectic weeknights. This hearty and comforting soup combines ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a flavorful broth, making it a quick, budget-friendly option the whole family will love. With pantry staples and minimal prep, this soup comes together effortlessly—perfect for when you're short on time but still want a homemade meal.
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Knife & cutting board (if using fresh vegetables)
- Ladle for serving
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 5 cups water or beef broth
- 1 ¾ cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup elbow macaroni or any short pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- Optional Toppings & Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crackers or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add Broth & Seasoning: Pour in 5 cups of water (or broth). Stir in the onion soup mix and diced tomatoes with juices.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
- Add Vegetables & Pasta: Stir in frozen vegetables and elbow macaroni. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, top with cheese or fresh parsley, and serve with bread or crackers.
Notes
Make it in the Slow Cooker: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except pasta. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Add pasta 30 minutes before serving.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Variations: Try using ground turkey, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken. Swap macaroni for rice, quinoa, or barley for a twist.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Variations: Try using ground turkey, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken. Swap macaroni for rice, quinoa, or barley for a twist.