Campbell’s Vegetable Soup Recipe

When you think of comfort food, there’s something uniquely satisfying about a warm bowl of vegetable soup. It’s not just food; it’s a memory. For many, Campbell’s Vegetable Soup is the epitome of childhood comfort, a timeless staple that has remained a beloved go-to meal for generations. Whether you’re reminiscing about cozy afternoons or introducing it to a new generation, this soup is a simple yet hearty dish that never goes out of style.

Now, let’s dive into how you can recreate Campbell’s Vegetable Soup right at home-because who says comfort food can’t be made fresh with your own two hands?

Campbell’s Vegetable Soup Recipe

Recreating Campbell’s Vegetable Soup is more than just following a recipe; it’s about capturing the essence of that familiar, warm taste that feels like a hug in a bowl. This version brings together a medley of vegetables, tender pieces of potatoes, and savory seasonings, all simmered in a rich broth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a lot of ingredients, but the flavors blend together perfectly to create something truly satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

• Carrots (2 medium): Fresh, sweet, and slightly earthy, carrots provide that perfect bite and color to the soup.
• Potatoes (2 medium): Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe. They become tender when simmered and help thicken the broth slightly.
• Celery (2 stalks): A must-have for the aromatic base. Celery adds crunch and that signature, subtle flavor that defines many vegetable soups.
• Onion (1 medium): Onion serves as the backbone of flavor, giving a rich, sweet undertone that complements the other veggies.
• Frozen Green Beans (1 cup): Green beans add texture and freshness, making every spoonful a little more satisfying.
• Frozen Corn (1/2 cup): Sweet, tender kernels provide a pop of sweetness that balances out the savory broth.
• Vegetable Broth (4 cups): This is the heart of the soup. Use a high-quality vegetable broth to ensure depth of flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Tomatoes add acidity and brightness to the mix, which helps cut through the richness of the broth.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Garlic gives that aromatic boost that takes any vegetable soup from good to great.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that enhances the flavors of the vegetables, adding an earthy note to the broth.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the veggies.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the aromatics, olive oil adds a rich, smooth undertone to the soup.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep The Ingredients

   • Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
   • Dice the onion and garlic. Slice the celery into small pieces. Set all veggies aside.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add The Vegetables

   Toss in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir everything together, letting them cook for another 3-5 minutes. This step helps develop the flavor base of the soup.

4. Add Broth And Seasoning

   Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer The Soup

   Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

6. Add Frozen Veggies

   Once the potatoes and carrots are tender, add in the frozen green beans and corn. Stir, and continue simmering for another 10 minutes. This helps to keep the veggies fresh and vibrant.

7. Taste And Adjust

   Before serving, taste the soup. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. This is your chance to perfect the flavors!

8. Serve And Enjoy

   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy the warmth and comfort that comes with each spoonful.

Ingredient Insights

• Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that gives them their bright orange color. They also provide fiber and vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts the immune system.
• Potatoes: High in potassium, potatoes are filling and help regulate blood pressure. They also provide a good source of vitamin C, contributing to overall health.
• Celery: Celery is low in calories but packed with fiber, and it also provides vitamin K, which is important for bone health. It’s an essential part of the “holy trinity” of aromatics, contributing both flavor and texture.
• Frozen Green Beans & Corn: Using frozen vegetables is not only more convenient but also locks in nutrients. Green beans are rich in fiber, and corn is high in B vitamins, promoting energy production and overall cell health.
• Italian Seasoning: A combination of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, this seasoning mix brings depth and aromatic complexity to your soup, turning basic vegetables into something extraordinary.

Expert Tips

• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Texture Matters: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to purée the soup slightly after it has finished cooking. This will thicken it up while still keeping some chunks for texture.
• Add Protein: For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils, which will not only boost the protein content but also make the soup even more filling.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Variations: To make this soup even more plant-based, use a vegetable-based broth instead of chicken broth and skip any dairy-based toppings (like cheese or cream).
• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Veggie Soup: Add kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and a squeeze of lemon for a Mediterranean twist.
• Hearty Bean Soup: Mix in a can of kidney beans or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
• Sweet Potato Version: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to give the soup a slightly sweet flavor and extra nutrients, including more vitamin A.
• Creamy Vegetable Soup: Add a dollop of cream or plant-based milk towards the end of cooking to create a creamy consistency while still keeping the soup vegetable-forward.

Final Words

Making Campbell’s Vegetable Soup at home doesn’t just mean recreating a childhood favorite-it’s about crafting something that can be shared, enjoyed, and even modified to fit your own tastes. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the richness of the vegetable broth, creates a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and nourishing.