Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further! This creamy chicken and ground beef soup recipe is the perfect blend of hearty and healthy, making it an ideal quick dinner idea or a satisfying weekend meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe is packed with flavor and will quickly become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (about one cooked chicken breast)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmering the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, add the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream (or milk), thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes.
Step 4: Serving
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a crusty bread roll for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken and Ground Beef Soup:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of paprika or a bay leaf would be delicious additions.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before simmering.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious and healthy vegetarian option.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, peas, or green beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and filling meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Enjoy this healthy meal and don't hesitate to share your culinary creations using this recipe! This food recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying dinner.