Minestrone Vegetable Beef Soup

Introducing Minestrone Vegetable Beef Soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of ground beef with an array of vibrant vegetables and savory broth. This comforting soup begins with browning lean ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper, enhancing its depth of flavor. Sauteed with aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, and carrots, along with a blend of Italian herbs, it develops a robust base.

Simmered gently in low-sodium beef broth and Italian-style diced tomatoes, the soup is further enriched with ditalini pasta, kidney beans, and frozen green beans, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Perfectly balanced in texture and taste, this soup is ideal for warming up on chilly evenings and is sure to become a favorite for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Minestrone Vegetable Beef Soup

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef, 80% lean

1 teaspoon canola oil

2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 small yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, diced

2 teaspoons dried Italian herb blend

1 quart (32-ounces) low-sodium beef broth

2 (14.5-ounce) cans Italian-style diced tomatoes

1 cup ditalini pasta

1 (15-16 ounce) can kidney beans, drained

1 cup frozen cut green beans

Instructions:

Step 1:

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat.

Add ground beef, 1-teaspoon salt and 1/2-teaspoon pepper.

Frequently chop/stir beef while browning, about 5 minutes.

Step 2:

Add onion, garlic, carrot and Italian herb blend; sauté for another 5-8 minutes.

Step 3:

Add beef broth, diced tomatoes and remaining 1-teaspoon salt; bring to a low boil.

Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 minutes.

Add pasta and gently simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Add kidney beans and green beans and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Notes:

Choose the Right Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef that is 80% lean. This ensures a good balance of flavor from the fat content without being overly greasy.

Brown the Beef Well: When browning the ground beef in the Dutch oven, make sure to break it up into small pieces and brown it evenly. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.

Sauté Aromatics Properly: Take your time sautéing the onion, garlic, carrot, and Italian herbs. This allows their flavors to develop and infuse into the soup base.

Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium beef broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup. You can always adjust seasoning later if needed.

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering soup and cook it until al dente. It will continue to cook slightly in the hot soup, so avoid overcooking to prevent mushy pasta.

Add Beans at the Right Time: Add the kidney beans and frozen green beans towards the end of cooking. This ensures they retain their texture and don’t become too soft.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes a splash of acidity like a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.

Simmer for Flavor Development: Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding all ingredients. This helps to meld the flavors together for a delicious final dish.

Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen it up.

Garnish for Serving: Before serving, consider garnishing each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This adds extra flavor and freshness to the soup.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground beef with a lower fat percentage?

You can use leaner ground beef, but it may affect the richness and flavor of the soup.

An 80% lean ground beef adds flavor, but you can opt for leaner meat if you prefer.

Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for canned diced tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes.

You may need about 2-3 medium-sized fresh tomatoes.

Be sure to peel and dice them before adding.

What can I use as a substitute for ditalini pasta?

If you can’t find ditalini pasta, other small pasta shapes like small shells or macaroni work as suitable substitutes.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

You can make a vegetarian or vegan version by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

You can also add extra vegetables or plant-based protein sources.

How can I adjust the salt content?

The recipe includes 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, but you can adjust the salt to your taste.

Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.

Keep in mind that canned ingredients may contain some salt, so taste and adjust accordingly.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to make a lighter version of this soup. Ensure it’s fully cooked before proceeding with the recipe.

Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth.

You can also add plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh if desired.

What are some good substitutions for ditalini pasta?

If you don’t have ditalini pasta, small pasta varieties like small shells, macaroni, or orzo work well as substitutes.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or crockpot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker.

Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I freeze Minestrone Vegetable Beef Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.