When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, hearty bowl of vegetable soup. The blend of tender vegetables simmered in a savory broth can make even the dreariest days feel better. And if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both simple and delicious, the Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup is an absolute winner. Known for its time-tested recipes, Betty Crocker has long been a trusted name in kitchens across the world. This vegetable soup is one of those classic dishes that brings the heartiness of fresh produce into a bowl of warmth and flavor.
What makes this vegetable soup so special? It’s not just the taste, though that’s certainly important. The recipe is easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and versatile enough to suit different preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, Betty Crocker’s Vegetable Soup is something you’ll want to try.
So, let’s dive into the specifics of what you need to make this soup, how to prepare it, and how to customize it to your tastes.
Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup Recipe
This vegetable soup recipe offers a perfect balance of textures, flavors, and colors. It’s a full meal in a bowl, loaded with vibrant vegetables and a broth that warms you from the inside out. The Betty Crocker version is especially popular because of its simplicity. It’s neither too complex nor too bland-just the right amount of seasoning and fresh ingredients.
Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing a nutritious lunch for the week, this soup doesn’t disappoint. It’s versatile enough for different dietary preferences and can be modified to suit your taste.
Ingredients Needed
To make the Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s the list of what you’ll need:
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Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
Used to sauté the vegetables and create a rich base for the soup.
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Onion (1 medium, chopped)
Adds depth and sweetness to the broth, forming the aromatic foundation.
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Carrots (3 medium, peeled and diced)
Sweet and slightly earthy, carrots are a key vegetable in any vegetable soup.
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Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
Adds a bit of crunch and a subtle fresh flavor to balance the sweetness of the carrots.
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Garlic gives the soup a savory richness and enhances the overall flavor.
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Tomatoes (1 can, diced, 14.5 oz)
Adds acidity and a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the vegetables.
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Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced)
Potatoes help thicken the soup, making it more filling and comforting.
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Frozen Corn (1 cup)
Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
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Vegetable Broth (6 cups)
The base of the soup, adding a savory, rich flavor. You can also use chicken broth if you prefer.
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Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For seasoning, these will bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
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Herbs (such As Thyme, Parsley, Or Bay Leaves)
A mix of herbs adds fragrance and subtle layers of flavor.
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Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, optional)
A touch of acidity at the end can brighten up the entire soup and bring everything together.
Cooking Instructions
Making this Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, nutritious bowl of soup ready in no time.
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Prepare The Vegetables
Start by peeling and chopping the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Mince the garlic and chop the onion as well. If you’re using fresh herbs, have them ready.
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Sauté The Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking them until the onion is translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
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Add The Vegetables
Toss in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables sauté for about 5 minutes. This helps to bring out their natural flavors.
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Pour In The Broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Add The Tomatoes And Corn
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and frozen corn. Continue simmering for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Season The Soup
Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and any herbs you’re using. If you like a more aromatic flavor, you can toss in a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
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Finish And Serve
Just before serving, add a tablespoon of lemon juice (optional). This brightens the soup and balances the richness. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient in this soup plays a key role, adding not only flavor but also texture and nutrition:
- Carrots: These root vegetables are full of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. They’re also high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for digestive health.
- Celery: Known for its low calorie content and high water content, celery is packed with vitamin K, and its mild flavor balances out the bolder vegetables.
- Potatoes: Packed with complex carbohydrates, potassium, and fiber, potatoes give the soup a creamy texture once they soften. You can even puree them into the broth for an extra thick soup.
- Corn: Not only does it add a pop of color, but corn also brings a touch of sweetness and is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and A, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to heart health, tomatoes elevate the soup with their tangy taste.
- Garlic: This flavorful bulb is packed with allicin, a compound known for its health benefits, including supporting immune function and reducing inflammation.
Expert Tips
- Simmer Low and Slow: While it might be tempting to speed up the cooking process, letting the soup simmer slowly allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley elevate the soup’s flavor profile, but make sure to remove them before serving if using whole sprigs.
- Make It a Meal: Add beans (like white beans or kidney beans) or a protein (such as cooked chicken) for a more substantial meal.
- Adjust for Taste: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup after it’s cooked.
Recipe Variations
This Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup is a great starting point for exploring different variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked beans (like chickpeas or lentils) for a vegetarian version, or add shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier option.
- Make It Vegan: Use a vegetable broth and skip any dairy ingredients (if using) to make this soup entirely plant-based.
- Spicy Veggie Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder for a spicy twist that warms you up even more.
- More Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Noodle Version: Add small pasta, like elbow macaroni or farfalle, in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a more filling soup.
Final Words
This Betty Crocker Vegetable Soup is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to enjoy a nourishing meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it on a cool evening or preparing a meal to feed the family, this soup checks all the boxes-tasty, healthy, and comforting.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can make it your own by adjusting the vegetables, seasoning, and even adding protein to make it a heartier meal. If you’re looking for a go-to recipe that you can rely on for any season, this vegetable soup is definitely one worth keeping in your repertoire.