Easy Rainy Day Soup

After weeks of hot July weather, we finally got some much-needed rain.

It was still warm outside, but the rain brought just enough relief to make the evening feel a little different. The gray skies and steady showers made a simple pot of soup sound like the perfect dinner.

This Easy Rainy Day Soup is one of those recipes I love making when life is busy. It comes together with a few pantry and freezer staples, simmers while everyone settles in for the evening, and always seems to bring everyone to the table.

Sometimes the simplest meals become the family favorites.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2 (1-ounce) packets onion soup mix
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, but recommended)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in the onion soup mix until the beef is evenly coated.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended together.
6. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Serve warm with crusty bread, cornbread, or your favorite crackers.

Kitchen Notes

• Frozen mixed vegetables make this recipe quick and convenient, but fresh vegetables can be substituted if you have them on hand.
• Add a diced potato or a cup of cooked pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for an even heartier meal.
• If you prefer a brothier soup, simply add an extra cup or two of beef broth.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.