Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef, cooked
- 1 can corn (15 oz)
- 1 can green beans (14.5 oz)
- 1 can Hormel chili with beans (15 oz)
- 1 can Hormel chili without beans (15 oz)
- 1 can old-fashioned vegetable soup (15 oz)
- 1 can Veg-All (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can sliced potatoes (15 oz)
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- In a large crockpot, combine all the canned ingredients, including the cooked ground beef.
- Stir the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Set the crockpot to low heat and let the soup simmer for 4-6 hours. Alternatively, you can set it to high heat and cook for 2-3 hours.
- Periodically stir the soup to prevent sticking and ensure that the flavors meld together.
- Once the soup is heated through and the vegetables are tender, it’s ready to serve.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add salt, pepper, or any preferred herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, you can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh parsley for added flavor.
This quick and easy Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich blend of flavors from the vegetables, ground beef, and the various canned ingredients.
Seasoning: While the canned ingredients provide a good base, don’t be afraid to add your favorite seasonings. Common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Fresh Vegetables: If you have the time, consider adding fresh vegetables along with the canned ones. Chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers can enhance both the flavor and texture of the soup.
Broth or Stock: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add beef or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, added towards the end of the cooking time, can provide a burst of fresh flavor. Garnishing with fresh herbs just before serving adds a delightful touch.
Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top of each serving. The warmth of the soup will melt the cheese, adding a delicious richness.
Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Time: While the soup can be ready in a few hours, allowing it to simmer for a longer time can deepen the flavors. This is especially useful if you’re preparing it in a crockpot or slow cooker.
Refrigerate and Reheat: Like many soups, the flavors tend to develop even more when reheated. Consider making this soup a day ahead, refrigerating it, and reheating it before serving.
Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for convenient future meals. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Remember, cooking is an art, and these tips are meant to inspire you to experiment and make the Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup your own!
