Beefy Harvest Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Beef (93% or leaner)
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian-style stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 1-1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked large elbow macaroni
• 4 ounces smoked Beef Sausage, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add Ground Beef; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon. Remove drippings.

   Cook's Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed Ground Beef. Ground Beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of Ground Beef doneness.

2. Meanwhile, combine water, tomatoes, vegetables and broth in large saucepan; bring to a boil. Stir in macaroni and beef; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in sausage; continue simmering 2 to 4 minutes or until macaroni is tender and beef sausage is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, as desired.

   Cook's Tip: Other pasta shapes, such as rotini, bow ties, medium shells or ditalini, may be substituted for large elbow macaroni; adjust cooking time as needed.