Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Beef Onion Soup Mix recipe is your answer. Forget the store-bought packets filled with questionable ingredients; this homemade version is bursting with rich beefy goodness and customizable to your taste. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to processed meals, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor base for your soup.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Add Aromatics and Liquids: Stir in the minced garlic, beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer for Flavor: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste will become.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to package directions until tender.
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Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious homemade beef onion soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Onion Soup:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your soup will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh herbs and good quality beef broth.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure you have enough space in the pot for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, cook the vegetables and beef in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You might want to add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or green beans.
- Use different pasta: Try different types of pasta, such as ditalini or small shells.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a single serving will typically provide a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. For precise nutritional information, utilize a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients and serving size.
This homemade Beef Onion Soup Mix recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. It's a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills, and it's easily adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. This hearty soup is perfect for those chilly evenings and a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes.