Quick Sheet Pan Pork Soup

Sheet pan dinners are a weeknight savior, offering ease and minimal cleanup. But have you ever considered a sheet pan soup? This Quick Sheet Pan Pork Soup recipe combines the simplicity of sheet pan roasting with the comforting warmth of a flavorful soup. By roasting the key ingredients first, you unlock a depth of flavor that simmering alone simply can’t achieve. This recipe delivers a hearty, satisfying meal with vibrant flavors and minimal effort.

Why Sheet Pan Soup?

The magic of this recipe lies in the pre-roasting of the vegetables and pork. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the ingredients, concentrating their flavors and adding a delightful smoky note. This method not only enhances the taste but also reduces the cooking time needed for the soup, making it a truly quick and convenient option. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Enhanced Flavor: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and savory notes of the vegetables and pork.
• Quick Cooking: Pre-roasting cuts down on the simmering time required for the soup.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks on one sheet pan, minimizing dishes.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the vegetables and spices to your liking.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with nutrients and protein, this soup is a complete meal.

Crafting Your Quick Sheet Pan Pork Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and adaptable. Follow these steps to create your own flavorful sheet pan pork soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Toss the Vegetables and Pork: In a large bowl, combine the pork, onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss again to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.

3. Roast the Ingredients: Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

4. Simmer the Soup: Transfer the roasted pork and vegetables to a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

5. Add the Beans: Stir in the cannellini beans and simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup:

• Pork Selection: Pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time. You can also use pork loin, but be sure to cut it into smaller cubes.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms. Adjust roasting time accordingly.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spice. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works well.
• Broth Options: Chicken broth provides a classic flavor, but vegetable or pork broth can also be used.
• Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for customizing your Quick Sheet Pan Pork Soup:

• Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning and use Italian sausage instead of pork tenderloin. Consider adding escarole or spinach towards the end of cooking.
• Spicy Southwestern: Incorporate chili powder, cumin, and a can of black beans. Top with avocado and cilantro.
• Mediterranean Delight: Use oregano, rosemary, and lemon zest. Add chickpeas instead of cannellini beans. Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or feta cheese.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
• Add Noodles: Cook egg noodles or ditalini pasta separately and add them to the soup just before serving. This will prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few suggestions for pairing and serving:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. Sourdough or French bread are excellent choices.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese: Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is a delicious accompaniment, especially for the spicy Southwestern variation.
• Garnishes: Get creative with your garnishes. Besides fresh parsley, consider adding a swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.

The Benefits of Pork in Soup

Pork is an excellent addition to soup, providing not only delicious flavor but also significant nutritional benefits. Here’s why pork is a great choice for your soup:

• Rich in Protein: Pork is a high-quality source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Provides Essential Nutrients: Pork contains essential vitamins and minerals, including thiamin, niacin, vitamin B12, and zinc. These nutrients play vital roles in energy metabolism, nerve function, and immune support.
• Adds Flavor and Depth: Pork’s savory flavor enhances the overall taste of the soup, adding depth and complexity.
• Versatile: Pork can be used in various soup recipes, from hearty stews to light and refreshing broths.
• Provides Healthy Fats: While often perceived as fatty, pork can be a source of healthy monounsaturated fats. Lean cuts like pork tenderloin are lower in saturated fat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just be sure to thaw them slightly and pat them dry before roasting to prevent them from steaming.

• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After roasting the vegetables and pork, transfer them to a slow cooker along with the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the beans during the last hour of cooking.

• How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

This soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

• Can I add rice or pasta to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked rice or pasta to this soup. Cook the rice or pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving. This will prevent the rice or pasta from becoming mushy.

• What can I substitute for cannellini beans?

You can substitute cannellini beans with other white beans, such as Great Northern beans or navy beans. You can also use chickpeas or even kidney beans for a different flavor profile.