Poor Man’s Soup is a hearty and economical dish that embodies simplicity and comfort. Made with basic pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and canned vegetables, it offers a satisfying meal that’s both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. The addition of tomato sauce and a blend of seasonings gives this soup a robust flavor, while the option to cook it in a crockpot enhances its convenience.

Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this recipe provides a nourishing option that feeds a family generously, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or a quick, reheatable lunch the next day.

Poor Man’s Soup

Ingredients:

1 Pound of Ground beef

4-5 potatoes

1 can of corn (or more if you like more corn)

1 can of hot tomato sauce

1 can of regular tomato sauce

Cumin about 1 tbp

Knorr chicken bouillon,salt and pepper (measure by taste)

Add the little pastas in about 10 minutes before it’s done or cook in a separate pan:

Water

Half a can of regular tomato sauce

Garlic salt

Pepper

Knorr chicken bouillon (season to taste with all)

*add a slice of onion and piece of garlic to make it taste

Instructions:

Step 1:

Brown meat on stove top and drain grease.

Combine all ingredients, heat over low for about an hour.

Add salt and pepper to taste and walla- dinner’s served!

Enjoy this low-cost meal, which makes enough to serve a family of four for dinner and leftovers for lunch the next day.

Step 2:

This can also be prepared for the crockpot.

Simply brown the beef or turkey and combine all ingredients in crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 3:

Fresh ingredients can also be used if you have them, and are so delish!

Notes:

Affordability and Simplicity: This recipe is designed to be budget-friendly and easy to prepare, using basic pantry ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, canned corn, and tomato sauce. It’s ideal for families looking to stretch their food budget without sacrificing flavor.

Versatility: You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have available or personal preferences. For example, you can add more corn if you prefer or substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option.

Flavor Profile: The combination of tomato sauces, cumin, Knorr chicken bouillon, garlic salt, pepper, onion, and garlic creates a hearty and savory broth that pairs well with the beef and vegetables. Adjust the seasoning to taste to enhance the flavor.

Cooking Methods: This soup can be cooked on the stove over low heat for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. Alternatively, it can be prepared in a crockpot for added convenience, simmering slowly for 6-8 hours on low heat.

Additional Tips: Adding pasta towards the end of cooking ensures it doesn’t become mushy. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish, though the recipe primarily relies on canned goods for convenience.

Serving: This recipe yields enough to serve a family of four for dinner with leftovers for lunch the next day, making it a practical choice for busy weekdays or when meal prepping.

Enjoyment: Despite its humble origins, Poor Man’s Soup delivers a satisfying meal that is both filling and comforting, perfect for colder days or when craving a hearty, homemade dish.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 400 | Protein: 20 grams | Carbohydrates: 35 grams | Fat: 20 grams | Fiber: 4 grams

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Poor Man’s Soup?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a leaner version of the soup.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for Poor Man’s Soup?

You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon to make a vegetarian version.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?

Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes, diced or pureed, as a flavorful alternative to canned tomato sauce.

How long should I cook Poor Man’s Soup on the stovetop?

Cook the soup on low heat for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld.

Ensure that the potatoes are tender before serving.

Can I freeze Poor Man’s Soup for later use?

Yes, Poor Man’s Soup can be frozen in airtight containers for future meals.

Thaw and reheat before serving.

What are some variations I can add to the soup for extra flavor?

Consider adding chili powder, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices.

How can I make the soup healthier?

Opt for lean ground meat, use low-sodium or homemade broth, and incorporate more vegetables for added nutrition.

Can I prepare Poor Man’s Soup in a crockpot?

Yes, you can. Brown the meat, then combine all ingredients in a crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Are there gluten-free alternatives for the pasta in Poor Man’s Soup?

Substitute gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free version of the soup.

Can I customize the spice level of Poor Man’s Soup?

Absolutely. Adjust the amount of hot tomato sauce, cumin, and pepper according to your spice preferences.