Sometimes you need one of those super easy meals that just tastes great. Or maybe you’re on a budget and just need some cheap bachelor chow. Whatever the case my be a cheap and easy meal is just what this busy time of year calls for. So with a little canned tomato product, a dash of spice and some hearty homemade meatballs you can achieve just that. Plus it tastes so rich, warm, and hearty. What more could you ask for as the weather grows cooler?

Hearty Bacon Meatballs

7 strips thick cut bacon

1 egg, beaten

1 lb ground beef

1 cup breadcrumbs

1 tsp oregano

Salt and pepper

Chop the bacon very fine and combine your ingredients in a chilled metal bowl. Mix well until everything is combined making sure not to over mix. Reserve for soup.

JFL’s Shelf Stew

1 recipe Hearty Bacon Meatballs

1 tbsp butter

1 26 oz can garlic and herb tomato sauce

1 can Rotel tomatoes and chili

1 cup tomato juice

2 tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 small package macaroni noodles

½ onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 dashes Tabasco

½ tbsp red pepper

salt and pepper to taste

Sliced sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

In a stew pot begin to brown the meatballs on all sides. Slowly add in the onions, butter and garlic until they begin to become translucent. Add tomato sauce, juice, Rotel, vinegar and Tabasco. Stir and bring to a boil before adding macaroni and other spices to the pot. Cover and cook on medium to medium low heat for 15 minutes or until the noodles are al dente. Should you desire top each bowl with a slice of cheese and wait about a minute for it to cool and melt.

You’d be surprised how this simple soup made of mostly household items can really please a crowd. I love fresh tomatoes and the lively sweet and tart soups they can make. There is something however to be said for the savory twang canned tomatoes have. Their flavor just seems to naturally warm and comfort in cold weather soups. So break into that pantry and cook up this bachelor bonanza regardless of your marital status.