Busy Day Soup

This Busy Day Soup is the perfect one-pot meal when you need something hearty, quick, and satisfying. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Adds rich, meaty flavor.
• Onion (1 small, diced) – Enhances the savory taste.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth to the broth.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz) – Brings a slightly tangy base.
• Beef Broth (4 cups) – The key to a rich, comforting soup.
• Mixed Frozen Vegetables (2 cups – peas, carrots, corn, green beans) – A quick and easy way to add color and nutrition.
• Russet Potato (1 large, diced) – Makes the soup extra filling.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Thickens and enhances the flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a touch of umami.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Blends classic herb flavors.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board & knife

Let’s Make Busy Day Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Stir in the diced potato and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning.
2. Let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Taste and Serve

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

What to Serve with Busy Day Soup

• A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls.
• A fresh green salad for a lighter pairing.
• Grated Parmesan or shredded cheese on top.

Tips for the Best Soup

• For extra richness, swap beef broth for bone broth.
• Make it heartier by adding cooked pasta or rice.
• For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Of course! Just adjust the cooking time to allow them to soften.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and swap the beef for lentils or beans.

Conclusion

Busy Day Soup is your go-to recipe when time is short but you need something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 600mg

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