Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a bowl of Italian Vegetable Beef Soup with Orzo! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef and fresh vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. With just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a hearty meal that serves six, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Imagine the aroma filling your home as you prepare this comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- Italian seasoning to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This includes 1 lb of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 4 cups of beef broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of orzo pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is browned, add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- After simmering, add the orzo pasta to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed in the soup.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Season the soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Once the orzo is cooked and the flavors are well combined, remove the pot from heat. Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Italian Vegetable Beef Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can enhance the soup's flavor and nutrition.
- Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deeper flavor. This step is crucial for a rich-tasting soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; you want it al dente for the best texture. Stirring occasionally will help prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to suit your palate.
- Garnish for Flavor: Consider garnishing your soup with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
