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Texas Two Step Soup Mix in a Jar: A Hearty Gift from the Kitchen

My grandmother, bless her heart, had a knack for making everyone feel loved and fed, even when time was short. She used to say, “A little something is better than nothing, especially when it warms the soul.” This Texas Two Step Soup Mix in a Jar reminds me of her. It’s a simple, thoughtful gift, a promise of comfort in a jar, ready to be transformed into a flavorful, hearty soup that truly tastes like you spent hours simmering it on the stove – even when you haven’t. This recipe is inspired by her ability to create something special from everyday ingredients.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yields: 1 pint mix
Serves: 8
Dietary Type: Adaptable (See Variations)

Ingredients

1 5/8 ounces brown gravy mix
2 tablespoons mild red chili powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
10-12 tortilla chips, coarsely crushed
1 cup pasta, small to medium sized, uncooked (such as elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells)

Equipment Needed

Wide-mouth pint jar
Small bowl
Measuring spoons and cups
Large saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Begin by pouring the brown gravy mix into the bottom of a clean, wide-mouth pint jar. This creates the first flavor layer and acts as a base for the soup.
In a small bowl, meticulously combine the chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, dried onion flakes, and garlic salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor throughout the soup.
Carefully pour the spice mixture into the jar, creating the second layer on top of the brown gravy mix. Try to keep it as level as possible for visual appeal.
Now, layer in the coarsely crushed tortilla chips. They add a delightful texture and a hint of corn flavor to the finished soup. Gently press them down to create a more compact layer.
Finally, top the jar off with the uncooked pasta. Ensure the jar is filled to the top, but not so tightly packed that it’s difficult to empty later.
Secure the lid tightly on the jar. The mix is now ready to be stored or gifted!
To prepare the soup, attach a gift tag (or write on a label) with the following instructions for the recipient:

TEXAS TWO STEP SOUP

a. Brown 1/2 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or vegetarian crumbles) in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat.

b. Add the contents of the jar to the saucepan with the browned meat.

c. Pour in 7 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

d. Once boiling, stir in 1 (15 oz) can of corn with red and green bell peppers (drained) and 1 (16 oz) can of chopped tomatoes (undrained).

e. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

f. Serve hot, garnished with crushed tortilla chips, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream, if desired.

g. Enjoy! This recipe makes 8 servings.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Meat Choice: While the recipe calls for ground beef, feel free to substitute ground turkey or vegetarian crumbles for a lighter or plant-based option.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat. For a milder soup, use less chili powder; for a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a hotter chili powder.
Pasta Variety: Experiment with different types of small pasta. Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells all work well.
Jar Presentation: For gifting, tie a ribbon around the jar and attach a decorative gift tag with the soup instructions.
Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced carrots, celery, or zucchini, for extra nutrition and flavor. Add them when you add the canned corn and tomatoes.
Salt: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt if necessary. The brown gravy mix and garlic salt may provide enough salt, but personal preference varies.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Texas Two Step Soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings. Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch, while shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream provide richness and creaminess.

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little water if the soup has thickened during storage.

Freezing is not recommended due to the pasta and tortilla chips changing texture. It is best to only make the soup as needed.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	10g	15%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	30mg	10%
Sodium	800mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	10%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	5g	–
Protein	10g	20%

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ground beef and use vegetarian crumbles or lentils instead. Ensure the brown gravy mix is vegetarian/vegan friendly.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free tortilla chips. Also, ensure the brown gravy mix is gluten-free.
Spicier Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or use a spicier chili powder.
Smoked Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice mix for a smoky flavor.
Bean Addition: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different size jar?
A: While a wide-mouth pint jar is ideal, you can use a larger jar. Just adjust the amount of water added when making the soup accordingly.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the ground beef, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender.

Q: How long will the soup mix last in the jar?
A: If stored in a cool, dry place, the soup mix should last for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I add fresh vegetables to the soup?
A: Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, onions, or bell peppers can be added when you add the canned corn and tomatoes.

Q: Can I use different types of beans?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Add them when you add the canned corn and tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Texas Two Step Soup Mix in a Jar is more than just a recipe; it’s a gesture of warmth and care. It’s perfect for gifting to friends, family, or neighbors who could use a comforting meal without the fuss. I encourage you to try this recipe, personalize it with your favorite spices and ingredients, and share it with someone you care about. I’m confident this flavorful soup will become a cherished favorite, just like the memories it evokes for me. Enjoy!

Texas Two Step Soup Mix in a Jar Recipe