Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is the perfect cozy soup thanks to the protein-rich beef and abundance of nutritious vegetables. This soup is an easy weeknight meal because it’s made with just a few pantry staples. But you can also make this soup with those leftover veggies in your fridge. It’s a great way to use them up! Serve with a roll and dig in.

HEARTY VEGETABLE BEEF SOUP

Ingredients
2 cups water
2 cups frozen or 1 can (15 ounces, drained) mixed vegetables
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, do not drain.
1 cup cooked ground meat (beef or turkey), about 1/2 pound
1 1/4 cup pasta, such as spaghetti, macaroni, or rotini, uncooked
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions
■ Wash hands with soap and water.
■ Heat water in a large saucepan over medium heat.
■ Add vegetables and meat.
■ Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
■ Add pasta and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes.
■ Add seasoning as desired.

Note: For more fiber, use whole-grain pasta.

Thanks to Illinois Extension for this recipe!