Mama Mia’s Minestrone Soup

I was first exposed to Minestrone soup when I tried it on a whim at Olive Garden a couple of years ago. I really enjoyed it. I came across this recipe about a year ago and fell in love with it!  The bacon really adds a delicious flavor. 

I adapted this recipe from Real Mom Kitchen.  I just use a good Italian seasoning instead of the different amounts of each herb. Make sure that it contains thyme, oregano and basil in it.  I got a good one from Costco.

Mama Mia’s Minestrone Soup



1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 large onion, chopped

1 cup celery chopped

Saute the onion and celery in bacon grease until tender.

2 cans Petite Diced Tomatoes

2 cans beef broth

2 small cans tomato juice

1 can northern white beans, drained and rinsed

1 can green beans, UNDRAINED

3 carrots, cut into chunks

2 cups shredded cabbage (not the pre-cut coleslaw mix, it’s too stringy when cooked)

2 cups of water

2 tsp Italian seasoning (make it a good one)

Bring the above ingredients to a boil, then reduce to simmer.  Simmer until vegetables are tender.  Then add:

1 cup of macaroni (rotini or shells work well)

Cook until macaroni is tender.  Top each bowl with Parmesan cheese to serve.