Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe elevates the classic Campbell's tomato soup to new heights by adding savory ground beef, creating a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. This simple recipe is a testament to how even the most basic ingredients can transform into a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It's one of those best recipes that's surprisingly versatile and adaptable to your own tastes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's condensed tomato soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Pour in the Campbell's tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup (if using), beef broth, and water. Stir in the oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
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Serve: Serve the hearty tomato soup and ground beef mixture over your favorite side dish. Cooked pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes all make excellent accompaniments. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Campbell's Tomato Soup and Ground Beef:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onion.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Slow cooker option: For a hands-off approach, transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Variations:
- Mexican twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, some cumin, and chili powder for a Southwestern flair.
- Italian inspired: Include a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a splash of red wine for a richer, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without optional ingredients):
This recipe provides a good source of protein from the ground beef and various nutrients from the vegetables. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. For detailed nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient measurements.
This easy recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a great example of how homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, a truly healthy meal, and a testament to the power of simple, yet flavorful food recipes.