Quick Busy Day Soup

This hearty Busy Day Soup has been my lifeline during hectic weeknights when cooking elaborate meals seems impossible. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it delivers comforting flavors without demanding your full attention in the kitchen.

I created this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when my family still needed nourishing dinners despite my packed schedule. The name stuck after my husband commented how amazing it was that I could make such a delicious soup on such a busy day.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef: the foundation of this soup providing hearty protein and rich flavor
• 1 packet onion soup mix: your flavor shortcut that adds depth without chopping onions
• 1 ¾ cups mixed frozen vegetables: convenient nutrition boost use whatever blend your family enjoys
• 5 cups water: creates the perfect broth base adjust if you prefer thinner soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes (28oz): adds acidity brightness and body to the broth
• 1 cup uncooked macaroni: makes the soup filling while absorbing flavors from the broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef:

Heat your Dutch oven over medium high heat and add the ground beef breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent greasy soup.

Create the Soup Base:

Return pot to heat and add water onion soup mix and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as these contain concentrated flavor. Bring mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour allowing flavors to meld.

Add Pasta and Vegetables:

After the soup base has simmered increase heat to medium and add the uncooked macaroni and frozen mixed vegetables directly to the pot. No need to thaw vegetables first. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook for 15 minutes or until pasta is tender and vegetables are heated through.

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The onion soup mix is truly the magic ingredient here. My grandmother always said good cooking sometimes requires shortcuts and this humble packet transforms simple ingredients into something that tastes like it simmered all day. Whenever I serve this soup my family gathers around the table without the usual coaxing required on busy evenings.

Storing Leftovers

This soup actually improves overnight as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid making the leftover soup thicker. When reheating add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot.

Customizing Your Soup

Feel free to make this recipe your own by switching up the ingredients based on what you have available. Ground turkey works beautifully as a leaner alternative to beef. Italian seasoning or ranch seasoning packets can replace the onion soup mix for different flavor profiles. Any short pasta shape works well not just macaroni. Try adding a can of beans or a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

While this soup is substantial enough to serve as a complete meal I often pair it with crusty bread or simple grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping. A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley adds a finishing touch that elevates the presentation. For potlucks or family gatherings I serve it in a slow cooker set to warm alongside a toppings bar featuring shredded cheese sour cream and fresh herbs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.

→ What vegetables work well in this soup?

Any frozen mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn work great. Fresh vegetables can also be used.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I use instead of macaroni?

You can substitute macaroni with other small pasta shapes like penne, shell pasta, or even rice.