There’s something special about a warm, hearty bowl of wholesome alphabet vegetable soup. It’s not just a meal—it’s a nostalgic dish that brings back childhood memories, where every spoonful is packed with tender vegetables, savory beef, and fun alphabet pasta. Whether you’re making this for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is a comforting, healthy choice that will leave you satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic & Fun: The alphabet pasta makes it enjoyable for both kids and adults.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with vegetables, lean protein, and hearty broth.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well for leftovers and freezes beautifully.
Ingredients for Wholesome Alphabet Vegetable Soup
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion (finely diced) | ½ cup |
| Carrots (peeled, quartered, and sliced) | 2 |
| Celery (thinly sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Ground beef (90% lean) | 1 pound |
| Minced garlic | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
Broth & Seasoning
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Diced tomatoes (with juice) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (8 oz) |
| Dried Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Beef broth | 6 cups |
Final Additions
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Alphabet noodles | ¾ cup |
| Frozen corn | ½ cup |
| Frozen green beans | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Warm the Olive Oil
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Cook the Aromatics
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
3. Brown the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot and break it apart with a spoon.
- Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Garlic and Seasoning
- Stir in minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Sauce
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and tomato sauce.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning for an added depth of flavor.
6. Simmer with Broth
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Add Noodles and Vegetables
- Stir in the alphabet noodles, frozen corn, and frozen green beans.
- Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta and vegetables are tender.
8. Finish with Fresh Parsley
- Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy it with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for the Best Alphabet Vegetable Soup
1. Choose Quality Beef
Using 90% lean ground beef ensures a rich, hearty texture without excessive grease. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Alphabet noodles cook quickly—add them towards the end to prevent them from becoming mushy.
3. Customize with Your Favorite Vegetables
This soup is incredibly versatile! Try adding:
- Zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Spinach or kale for added greens.
- Potatoes for a heartier texture.
4. Make It Vegetarian
Swap the ground beef for lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious plant-based alternative.
5. Store and Reheat Like a Pro
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm over medium heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if needed.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Swap the Pasta
- Use orzo, ditalini, or elbow macaroni if alphabet noodles aren’t available.
- Try gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
2. Add More Protein
- Stir in white beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Add shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a different texture.
3. Make It Spicy
If you love heat, try adding:
- Red pepper flakes
- A dash of hot sauce
- Chopped jalapeños
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans and corn work great—just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully tender.
3. How do I prevent my pasta from getting mushy?
If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but leave out the noodles if freezing. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating for the best texture.
5. What can I serve with alphabet vegetable soup?
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad
6. How can I make this soup lower in sodium?
- Use low-sodium beef broth.
- Reduce the amount of salt added during cooking.
- Rinse canned tomatoes before using.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Now that you know how to make this wholesome alphabet vegetable soup, it’s time to bring warmth and comfort to your table! This hearty, nutritious dish is perfect for any season and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.