Hearty Ground Beef Minestrone Chili Soup

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 35–45 minutes

• Total time: 55–60 minutes

• Servings: 8–10

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the soup:

• 2 lb (900 g) lean ground beef

• 3 cans (10.5 oz / 298 g each) condensed minestrone soup

• 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) ranch-style beans

• 2 cans (10 oz / 283 g each) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies

• 2 cans (14.5 oz / 411 g each) diced tomatoes

• 2 cups small pasta shells

• 3 cups beef broth or water

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the ground beef

1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef.

3. Break the meat into small pieces using a wooden spoon.

4. Cook for 8–10 minutes until completely browned.

5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic.

6. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

7. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Season the beef

1. Sprinkle salt over the browned beef.

2. Add black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Add seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.

4. Mix thoroughly so the beef is evenly seasoned.

5. Cook for another minute to develop the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the soup base

1. Place a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat.

2. Add the seasoned ground beef.

3. Pour in all three cans of minestrone soup.

4. Add ranch-style beans.

5. Add Rotel tomatoes with their juices.

6. Add diced tomatoes.

7. Pour in beef broth or water.

8. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the soup

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

2. Reduce heat to medium-low.

3. Cover partially with a lid.

4. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.

5. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Taste the broth and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 5: Add the pasta shells

1. Add the small pasta shells directly to the simmering soup.

2. Stir thoroughly.

3. Cook uncovered for approximately 10–12 minutes.

4. Stir frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

5. Check that the pasta is tender but still holds its shape.

Step 6: Finish the soup

1. Check the consistency of the soup.

2. Add additional beef broth if it is too thick.

3. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.

4. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and chili seasoning.

5. Remove from heat.

6. Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

1. Ladle the hot soup into large serving bowls.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

3. Add shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.

4. Serve with warm cornbread or crusty garlic bread.

Enjoy this delicious, thick, hearty homemade soup!

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.

• Drain and rinse beans if you prefer a less salty soup.

• Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

• For a spicy version, add jalapeños or extra chili powder.

• Cook pasta separately if you plan to freeze leftovers.

• For extra vegetables, add chopped carrots, celery, or green beans.

• Add a little Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

Based on 10 servings.

Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the brands of canned soup, beans, beef, and seasoning used.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergen information: No nuts are intentionally included. This recipe may contain wheat and soy depending on the canned soup and seasoning brands. Always check product labels for allergens and possible cross-contamination.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding broth if needed.

• Meal prep: Store in individual containers for easy lunches and dinners.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Homemade cornbread

• Garlic bread

• Grilled cheese sandwiches

• Fresh garden salad

• Buttered dinner rolls

• Saltine crackers

Final Result: A rich, chunky, delicious beef and bean soup loaded with tender pasta shells, juicy tomatoes, and savory seasonings. Every spoonful is warm, comforting, and satisfying!

Enjoy your homemade Hearty Ground Beef Minestrone Soup!