When it comes to comforting, homestyle meals, there’s something uniquely soothing about a warm bowl of vegetable soup. Marie Callender’s vegetable soup, a beloved dish from the iconic frozen food brand, has become a household staple for many who want a quick, delicious, and nourishing meal. While you can always grab a frozen version from the store, making it at home offers a fresh, customizable take on this classic.
Vegetable soup, in its essence, is versatile, healthy, and satisfying. But when you recreate Marie Callender’s version at home, you’re not only making something delicious-you’re also bringing a piece of nostalgia to the table. This soup is packed with hearty vegetables, savory broth, and the right amount of seasonings to make every bite memorable.
Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack, this vegetable soup will become a go-to recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to love. So, let’s dive into this recipe and give you all the tools to make it perfect every time!
Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Recipe
Recreating Marie Callender’s vegetable soup recipe at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to adjust ingredients based on your preferences. It’s all about fresh veggies, a rich broth, and just the right balance of herbs and spices. Here’s how you can make it from scratch:
Ingredients Needed
- Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh): 2 cups (carrots, corn, peas, green beans, and diced potatoes)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) – use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups – you can substitute with chicken broth for added richness
- Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced into small cubes
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Bay leaves: 2 – adds a subtle, aromatic flavor
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon (dried or fresh)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to taste
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon – for sautéing
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Veggies
- If you’re using fresh vegetables, chop everything into bite-sized pieces.
- If you’re using frozen veggies, make sure they’re thawed and drained if necessary.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in your vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Add The Vegetables
- Toss in your mixed veggies, diced potatoes, and tomatoes. Stir everything to combine.
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Season The Soup
- Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar to mellow out the acidity from the tomatoes, if preferred.
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Simmer The Soup
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as necessary-add more salt, pepper, or thyme if you like it more flavorful.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with crusty bread or crackers for an added touch.
Ingredient Insights
- Mixed Vegetables: The beauty of using mixed vegetables is that you can incorporate a variety of textures and flavors. Common mixes include carrots, peas, corn, and green beans. The great thing about vegetable soup is that you can switch out or add veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. You could try adding zucchini, kale, or spinach for added nutrients and variety.
- Diced Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes give the soup its slightly tangy flavor, balancing out the richness of the broth. Fire-roasted tomatoes, which have been charred before canning, can elevate the soup with a smoky, deep flavor.
- Potatoes: These starchy vegetables help to thicken the soup and make it feel more filling. Depending on your preference, you can use russet potatoes for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite.
- Vegetable Broth: The broth serves as the base, giving the soup depth and richness. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness. If you want a heartier flavor, you can mix in a bit of bouillon paste or even some tomato paste.
Expert Tips
- Make it Ahead of Time: Like many soups, vegetable soup tastes even better the next day! Allow the flavors to meld by letting it sit in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to reheat it gently, as the potatoes can break down if overcooked.
- Thicken It: For a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup. This will give the broth a creamy consistency while still keeping some of the chunky textures intact.
- Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Add a Protein: While vegetable soup is hearty on its own, you can add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to make it more filling if you’re looking for some extra protein.
- Crispy Garnishes: Consider adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a handful of crispy croutons on top for extra texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to play around with different variations:
- Vegan Version: Make it vegan by ensuring you use vegetable broth, and avoid adding any animal-based products like butter or cheese.
- Italian Vegetable Soup: Add in a cup of small pasta (like ditalini) and some Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, and rosemary) for a Mediterranean twist.
- Chunky vs. Smooth: If you prefer a smoother texture, use a blender or immersion blender to puree some of the soup. Alternatively, leave it chunky if you love a hearty, rustic feel.
- Spicy Southwest Version: Add in some diced green chilies, corn, black beans, and a squeeze of lime for a more southwestern take on vegetable soup.
Final Words
When you make Marie Callender’s vegetable soup at home, you’re not just cooking a meal; you’re creating a sense of comfort. It’s easy, filling, and flavorful, yet it’s light enough to enjoy on a weeknight or serve as a starter for a larger meal. The flexibility of the ingredients also means you can tweak it to your heart’s content, whether you want a heartier soup or something more refreshing. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or pantry staples you have.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Marie Callender’s vegetable soup recipe typically includes a variety of vegetables such as carrots, celery, potatoes, peas, and tomatoes, along with herbs and seasonings like garlic, onions, thyme, and bay leaves. It also includes vegetable broth or water as the base liquid.
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead Of Frozen For Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen. Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes will work well in the recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the differences in texture and moisture content.
Is Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Recipe Vegetarian Or Vegan?
The basic version of Marie Callender’s vegetable soup is vegetarian, as it uses vegetable broth. However, it may not be vegan if any dairy products or non-vegan additives are included. For a vegan version, make sure to use plant-based broth and ensure that there are no animal-derived ingredients.
How Do I Make Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, incorporating chili powder or cayenne pepper into the seasoning can also boost the spice level.
Can I Make Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, Marie Callender’s vegetable soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, like many soups, it often tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.
How Long Does Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Last In The Fridge?
Marie Callender’s vegetable soup can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve With Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup?
Marie Callender’s vegetable soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crackers or a slice of cornbread for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Thicken Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Alternatively, you can add a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with water, or even mashed potatoes, to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I Add Meat To Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can add meat to the vegetable soup for added protein and flavor. Ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be added, or you can include cooked sausage or bacon for a more savory taste. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is There A Gluten-free Version Of Marie Callender’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Yes, to make Marie Callender’s vegetable soup gluten-free, ensure that the broth you use is certified gluten-free. Also, avoid adding any wheat-based pasta or flour in the recipe. Cornstarch or gluten-free flour can be used as thickening agents.