Introduction
Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this hearty Instant Pot soup is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. Combining lean ground beef with a medley of vegetables and spices, this dish offers both nutrition and satisfaction. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 small onion, diced
3 cups beef broth or stock
1 cup tomato sauce or tomato soup
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced yellow or orange bell pepper
2 cups chopped carrots
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup Ditalini pasta
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
This Instant Pot soup is not only quick to make but also delivers a wholesome, satisfying flavor that the entire family will enjoy. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or your favorite toppings for an extra touch. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1 small diced onion. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, approximately 2 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, stirring regularly. Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pot.
Step 3: Add Tomato and Broth
Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce (or tomato soup) and 3 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables
Add 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of diced red bell pepper, and 1 cup of diced yellow or orange bell pepper, along with 2 cups of chopped carrots to the pot.
Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta
Incorporate 1 can (15 ounces) of rinsed and drained kidney beans and 1 cup of Ditalini pasta into the mixture.
Step 6: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 7: Prepare for Pressure Cooking
Press the “Cancel” button to turn off the sauté mode. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the steam release knob is set to the “Sealing” position.
Step 8: Set Cooking Time
Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and adjust the cook time to 15 minutes.
Step 9: Release Pressure
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. After the natural release, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 10: Serve the Soup
Carefully remove the lid. Serve the soup hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese or your preferred toppings.
Notes
Usage of Vegetable Variations
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding or substituting different vegetables according to your preference.
Storage Recommendations
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing Suggestions
The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. In this recipe, it helps to develop flavors by browning the garlic and onion.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking uses steam to cook food quickly under high pressure. This technique helps to soften the pasta and vegetables, ensuring they blend well with the flavors of the soup.
Natural Pressure Release
Natural pressure release allows the Instant Pot to cool down gradually after cooking. This step ensures that the flavors continue to meld while preventing splatter during the quick release.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution of flavors and nutrients throughout the dish. It’s essential for creating a harmonious and balanced soup.
Cooking Pasta in Soups
Adding pasta directly to soup during pressure cooking allows it to absorb flavors and become tender. Ditalini pasta is a great choice for soups due to its small size and shape.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
What can I use instead of Ditalini pasta?
You can use other small pasta shapes like orzo, mini shells, or even broken spaghetti if Ditalini is not available.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative, omit the beef broth and use vegetable broth instead, and keep all the vegetables.
How long can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
Conclusion
This hearty Instant Pot soup, enriched with lean ground beef and a medley of colorful vegetables, offers a nutritious and comforting meal perfect for any time of the year. The combination of spices and broth creates a flavorful base that brings all the ingredients together beautifully, making it a filling option that can easily be customized to suit your taste.
Chili Variation
Swap the Ditalini pasta for pinto beans and increase the amount of kidney beans. Add a tablespoon of chili powder for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add more beans such as black beans and chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter version.
Asian-Inspired Soup
Incorporate ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and swap the Ditalini pasta for rice noodles. Add bok choy and mushrooms for an Asian twist.
Mexican Twist
Add corn, black beans, and diced jalapeños to the mix. Season with cumin, cilantro, and serve with tortilla chips for a delicious Mexican-inspired soup.
Classic Minestrone
Incorporate zucchini, green beans, and diced potatoes. Use larger pasta such as shells or bow ties, and enhance the flavor with fresh basil and oregano.
Extra Creamy Option
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving to create a creamy, rich texture that’s comforting and delicious.
