Directions to Follow
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Stir in diced potatoes, beef broth, tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
Add frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
In a separate pot, melt the remaining butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened.
Stir in Italian seasoning, then add chicken broth and potatoes.
Mix flour and milk in a bowl, then stir into the pot.
Gradually mix in cheese and sour cream until melted and smooth.
For the taco soup, combine pinto beans, corn, black beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chicken, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, garlic, onion powder, cumin, and salt in a large pot. Stir and simmer for 15 minutes.
For the crack chicken noodle soup, sauté carrots, celery, and onion in butter. Add water, pasta, cream cheese, heavy cream, and remaining ingredients until pasta is cooked through.
Serve warm, garnished with cilantro, sour cream, tortilla chips, and cheese as desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a cozy dining experience, serve your Cozy Comfort Soup in wide bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, tortilla chips, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to freeze it, don’t add dairy ingredients before freezing, as this may affect the texture. Instead, add cheese and cream when reheating for the best results. For freezing, it’s good for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before warming on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the fat content in your soup.
- Add more vegetables or switch them out according to what you have on hand—sweet potatoes or bell peppers can work wonderfully.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in before serving.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with your Cozy Comfort Soup! You can add spicy elements, like diced jalapeños or chili flakes, for a kick. Swap out the beef for turkey or go vegetarian by using lentils or chickpeas instead. Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs and spices to suit your taste.
FAQs
How long does prep take?
Preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, while cooking can take around 40-50 minutes, depending on your heat levels and chosen ingredients.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make the soup dairy-free, replace the cheese and sour cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cheese substitute. Adjust the quantities to your taste.
With all its layers of flavors and textures, Cozy Comfort Soup in a Container is a fantastic dish for any occasion. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
