I put together this cozy and nostalgic alphabet soup in just about 25 minutes. It’s packed with tender ABC pasta, a savory tomato-based broth, and a mix of colorful vegetables. It reminds me of childhood but feels a lot fresher and more wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy this soup is to make—it’s all done in one pot with pantry-friendly ingredients. The little pasta letters keep it fun, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to pack up for lunch. It’s comforting, kid-friendly, and budget-conscious, and I can customize it however I want.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
7 cups water
2 low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes
1 pound frozen mixed vegetables
2 cups alphabet pasta
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. I add the diced onion and sauté until it’s softened and just beginning to brown.
Then I stir in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning for a few seconds to bloom the flavor.
I pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the water, bouillon cubes, and frozen vegetables. I bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
After that, I stir in the alphabet pasta, salt, and pepper. I let it cook for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and cover the pot. I let it sit for another 5 minutes to finish cooking the pasta.
Once done, I give it a final stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings. It takes around 5 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in about 25 minutes total.
Variations
I sometimes add a spoonful of tomato paste to deepen the flavor.
When I want a salty umami boost, I splash in some soy sauce or tamari.
If I’m in the mood for heat, I add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce.
Stirring in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast gives it a savory, slightly cheesy note.
I like to bulk it up with diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier version.
For added protein, I toss in a can of chickpeas or white beans.
I finish it with fresh parsley, green onions, or even a sprinkle of vegan cheese.
Storage/Reheating
Fridge: I store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. If possible, I keep the pasta separate from the broth to prevent it from getting mushy.
Freezer: I freeze the soup without the pasta in individual portions. It lasts for 3–4 months.
Reheating: I reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. I add a little extra water or broth if it’s too thick.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, I just swap the alphabet pasta for a gluten-free option, or even something like quinoa or rice.
What if I don’t have alphabet pasta?
I can use any small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or even broken-up spaghetti.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
I add the pasta at the end and let it finish cooking with the heat off. If I’m storing leftovers, I keep the pasta separate.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Definitely. I just dice whatever veggies I have on hand and simmer them until tender.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes! I find it perfect for prepping in advance. I store the soup and pasta separately and just combine them when I’m ready to eat.
Conclusion
This alphabet soup is one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s quick, flexible, and has just the right mix of nostalgia and nutrition. I like how I can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in my fridge, and it always hits the spot. Whether I’m feeding my family or prepping lunches for the week, this soup always delivers.
This cozy and nostalgic alphabet soup is made in just 25 minutes with tender ABC pasta, a savory tomato broth, and colorful veggies—perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
7 cups water
2 low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes
1 pound frozen mixed vegetables
2 cups alphabet pasta
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened and beginning to brown.
Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning to bloom the flavors.
Add diced tomatoes with juices, water, bouillon cubes, and frozen vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in alphabet pasta, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and cover the pot. Let sit for another 5 minutes.
Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
Notes
Add tomato paste for a deeper flavor.
Soy sauce or tamari gives a salty umami boost.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Stir in nutritional yeast for a cheesy note.
Include diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to make it heartier.
Chickpeas or white beans can add protein.
Top with parsley, green onions, or vegan cheese for extra flavor.
