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Busy Day Soup

A warm and comforting soup loaded with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta, perfect for busy days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and adding healthy fats; avocado oil makes a great substitute.
  • 1 pound ground beef Provides protein and richness; feel free to swap with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter option.
  • 1 onion, chopped Essential for flavor; shallots or leeks work well for a milder taste.
  • 2 carrots, diced Sweetness and color; use parsnips for a unique twist.
  • 2 celery stalks, diced Adds crunch; you can omit if celery isn’t your favorite.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth; garlic powder can be an alternative.
  • 6 cups beef broth Gives the soup a robust flavor; vegetable broth enhances the dish for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) Provides acidity; fresh tomatoes are an excellent fresh substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs These herbs infuse a lovely fragrance; adjust based on your herb collection.
  • 1 cup pasta (e.g., elbow or shells) Adds heartiness; gluten-free pasta is a viable option.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Offers nutrition and color; kale or Swiss chard can also be used.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for flavor enhancement.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, and add Italian herbs. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente.
  5. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Notes

Serve Busy Day Soup piping hot, garnished with fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze for up to 3 months. Always taste before serving and adjust seasonings as preferred.