Beefy Minestrone is a hearty and satisfying soup that combines tender beef with an abundance of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich, flavorful broth. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and nourishing. The addition of beef gives this classic Italian soup an extra layer of richness, making it a complete meal in a bowl. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delicious dinner that will leave everyone feeling full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow squash, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth.
- Add the zucchini, yellow squash, kidney beans, and cannellini beans.
- Season and Simmer:
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the pasta to the soup and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Finish the Soup:
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and tender.
- Serve:
- Ladle the beefy minestrone into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Enjoy your Beefy Minestrone, a comforting and filling soup that’s perfect for any day of the week!
