Campbell’s Alphabet Soup Recipe

Ah, Campbell’s Alphabet Soup-it’s a classic, isn’t it? The little pasta shapes floating in that warm, comforting broth, each one representing a different letter of the alphabet. It’s the kind of soup that brings back memories of childhood, cozy kitchen moments, and maybe even a little nostalgia. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this iconic canned soup at home (without opening a can, of course!), you’re in the right place.

The great thing about Campbell’s Alphabet Soup is how simple yet delicious it is. With a rich, flavorful broth and tender little pasta pieces, it’s the perfect comfort food for any time of day. It’s also easy to make, so you can enjoy a homemade version whenever you feel like it. Today, we’re diving into the step-by-step process of crafting this delightful soup, with tips on how to elevate it, variations to make it your own, and insights into each ingredient that makes this dish shine.

Campbell’s Alphabet Soup Recipe

Making homemade alphabet soup is easy, and you don’t need much to get started. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or something to satisfy your inner child, this recipe will deliver. You can get creative with it, too, whether adding vegetables, protein, or herbs for an extra punch of flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need and how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

Before you start cooking, let’s get everything you’ll need in one place:

For The Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer taste)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 ½ cups alphabet pasta (you can also use other small pasta shapes)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the fun part-making the soup. Follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll have a pot of homemade Campbell’s-inspired alphabet soup:

1. Heat the oil: Start by heating the olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots and celery. Cook everything together for 4-5 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften.
4. Stir in the tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and stir everything together.
5. Pour in the broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, followed by the thyme and basil. Stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the pasta: Once the soup is simmering, add the alphabet pasta. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season to taste: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Ingredient Insights

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients that make this soup so satisfying:

• Olive oil or butter: This serves as the base for sautéing the aromatics and vegetables. It adds richness to the soup and enhances the flavor of the ingredients.
• Onion and garlic: These two ingredients are the flavor foundation of almost every savory dish. They work together to create a depth of flavor, offering a savory and slightly sweet backdrop for the other components.
• Carrot and celery: These vegetables, often referred to as the ’holy trinity’ of soup-making (along with onion), add crunch, sweetness, and earthiness to the soup. They balance out the richness of the broth and make the soup feel heartier.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: The broth is the heart of this soup. Using a good-quality, low-sodium option ensures a flavorful base without overwhelming saltiness.
• Alphabet pasta: The fun part! These tiny, letter-shaped pastas are what make the soup iconic. They absorb the flavors of the broth while providing a playful, comforting texture.

Expert Tips

• Broth Choice: For a richer flavor, use bone broth, which adds a more complex, savory taste. For a lighter, vegetarian version, opt for vegetable broth.
• Texture Check: If you’re making the soup ahead of time, keep the pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. Pasta tends to absorb the broth and can get too soft if stored together for long periods.
• Flavor Boost: Try adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end to brighten the flavor and balance the richness of the broth.
• Make it a meal: Want to make the soup more substantial? Add some cooked chicken, beans, or even meatballs. These additions turn your soup into a full meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Recipe Variations

While the classic version is always a hit, there’s no limit to how you can customize your alphabet soup. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and skip the meat. You can add beans (like kidney or white beans) for protein and extra texture.
• Spicy Alphabet Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to give your soup a little heat. You can also sprinkle in some hot sauce right before serving for an added kick.
• Creamy Alphabet Soup: After the soup is done cooking, stir in a half cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety texture and richness.
• Alphabet Soup with Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach, kale, or arugula at the end of cooking. The greens will wilt into the soup and provide extra nutrients and a pop of color.
• Add-ins for protein: Consider adding small diced cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to make the soup more filling and turn it into a more hearty, protein-packed dish.

Final Words

There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of alphabet soup. Whether it’s the nostalgia of childhood or just the simple pleasure of slurping down flavorful broth with cute little pasta letters, this soup is both fun and fulfilling. It’s also incredibly customizable to suit different tastes and dietary needs, whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to spice things up, or craving something creamy and indulgent.

Plus, it’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen! They can help with stirring, adding the pasta, or even having a go at the fun letters. It’s a soup that brings people together, and it’s perfect for all ages.