🍲 Simple Soups That Stretch: Filling Meals from Pantry Ingredients

Soup is one of the most comforting, budget-friendly meals you can make—and it’s a great way to stretch what you have in your pantry. At PC Food Pantry, we love sharing soup recipes that are easy to make, warm the soul, and fill up the whole family.

Here are some go-to soup ideas using common pantry ingredients—plus tips to make them your own.


🥣 1. Classic Bean & Veggie Soup

You’ll need:

  • 1–2 cans of beans (any kind)
  • 1 can of mixed vegetables or frozen veggies
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • Water or broth
  • Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. Serve with bread, crackers, or rice.

Bonus: Add pasta or rice to make it even more filling.


🍅 2. Tomato Rice Soup

You’ll need:

  • 1 can of tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup rice
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • Seasonings: basil, oregano, garlic

Instructions:

  1. Combine everything in a pot.
  2. Cook until rice is tender (about 20 minutes).
  3. Add frozen or canned corn for texture and sweetness.

🥔 3. Hearty Potato Soup

You’ll need:

  • 2–3 potatoes (or canned)
  • 1 can of corn
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • Seasonings: salt, pepper, parsley

Optional: Add a splash of milk or a little shredded cheese if available.

Instructions:

  1. Boil potatoes until soft, mash a few for creaminess.
  2. Add corn and seasonings, simmer until heated through.

🍜 4. Noodle & Bean Soup

You’ll need:

  • 1–2 cups of noodles (any kind)
  • 1 can of beans
  • 1 can of veggies or frozen mixed veggies
  • 3 cups water or broth
  • Seasonings: thyme, garlic, or chicken seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Boil noodles in water or broth with seasonings.
  2. Add beans and veggies, simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Pro tip: Add a spoonful of salsa or hot sauce for a kick.


🧡 5. “Everything But the Kitchen Sink” Soup

This one’s all about using up what you have:

  • Leftover veggies
  • Rice or pasta
  • Any canned beans or meats
  • Seasoned water or broth base

No rules—just flavor, love, and creativity!


đź’› Stretching Meals, Feeding Hearts

Soup is more than just food—it’s warmth, comfort, and community in a bowl. At PC Food Pantry, we’re proud to help families turn simple ingredients into something special.

Whether it’s bean soup or potato chowder, know that every bowl brings health and hope to your home.