Easy Alphabet Soup is a fun, nostalgic, and wholesome meal that both kids and adults will love. Packed with tender alphabet pasta, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth, this one-pot soup is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or introducing little ones to homemade meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Kid-friendly and fun to eat
- Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
- One-pot cleanup makes it weeknight friendly
- Loaded with veggies for a nutritious meal
- Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
- Great for meal prep or freezing
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Alphabet pasta
- Olive oil
- Carrots, diced
- Celery, diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions

- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in alphabet pasta and cook until tender, about 7–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, and total cook time is around 20 minutes, making it a perfect 30-minute meal.
Variations
- Add ground beef or turkey for a heartier soup
- Stir in spinach, peas, or corn for more vegetables
- Use tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes for a smoother broth
- Add a splash of cream for a richer texture
- Use gluten-free alphabet pasta if needed
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add extra when reheating. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring in broth or water as needed. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make Alphabet Soup ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid over-softening.
Is this soup good for toddlers?
Absolutely — the small pasta and soft veggies make it ideal for young eaters.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, just chop and sauté them slightly longer before adding broth.
What’s a good substitute for alphabet pasta?
Small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or stelline work well.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just add them directly to the soup without thawing.
How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid or mash some of the vegetables into the broth.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, add all ingredients except pasta and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in pasta 30 minutes before serving.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well, though it’s best to freeze without the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.
What herbs go well in this soup?
Oregano, basil, thyme, and parsley are all excellent choices.
Conclusion
Easy Alphabet Soup is a comforting, wholesome meal that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. With its vibrant vegetables, flavorful broth, and playful pasta shapes, it’s a hit for all ages and a great go-to for quick, nourishing dinners. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
PrintEasy Alphabet Soup Recipe
A fun and comforting alphabet soup made with tender pasta letters, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth — perfect for kids and nostalgic adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup dry alphabet pasta
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Add alphabet pasta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta and vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Substitute or add any veggies you have on hand like peas or corn.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free alphabet pasta for dietary preferences.
- Soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg