This minestrone soup is healthy, hearty and tasty.  The classic flavors of onion, garlic and bacon form the starting base of the soup and is combined with a stash of vegetables, small pasta, beans, ground beef and a light tomato broth.  Served with a warm roll and this soup makes for a fantastic meal perfect for the cooler weather.

Ingredients

• 3 slices bacon
• 1 med. onion
• 1/2 – 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 2-3 large carrots or 1c. baby carrots, diced
• 1 c. chopped celery
• 1 small jar spaghetti sauce (I use the traditional Prego)
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can white beans
• 1-2 bouillon cubes (chicken or beef)
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1-2 cans chicken broth
• shell macaroni (about half a package)

Directions

Brown ground beef.  While the beef is browning put all the other ingredients into a pot except for the pasta.  Add ground beef to the pot.  Cook pasta according to directions.  When the vegetables are almost done add the cooked pasta to the soup.  Cook an additional 5-10 mins.  Serve

Recipe from Jennifer Thompson