CLEVELAND, Ohio – Sometimes, you just want comfort food. There are so many options: Grilled cheese. Meat loaf. Chicken pot pie. It’s an endless list, really. One item that gets criminally overlooked on that list is vegetable soup.
Your “Best of Cleveland” team of Yadi Rodriguez and Peter Chakerian is back with another ranking and this time, we hit a bowl of vegetable soup… 55 times. We did the heavy lifting and spoon work so you don’t have to!
A great bowl of vegetable soup has a lot of things to live up to: plenty of veg (of course), but also a savory and satisfying broth base, the perfect level of seasoning and (in some cases) pasta, barley and meat.
We were looking for a winning combination of flavor, texture, ingredients and (quite frankly) if the soup lived up to what it promised on the label. Our selections ranged in price from $1.19 – $6.69 and we followed the microwaveable cooking suggestions.
Do our rankings agree with yours? Where did your go-to favorite vegetable soup rank on our list? Without further ado, let’s find out, shall we?
No. 55: Food Club (Hearty) – Classic Vegetable
Food Club (Hearty) – Classic Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $2.69
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 100 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 770mg | Carbs 20g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No certified synthetic colors
Our Thoughts: More carrots than anything else. Potatoes were mushy. The base was very watery, with a not-so-subtle tin-can/metallic aftertaste. Not good, not a repeat. Back to the test kitchen with you!
No. 54: Dr. McDougall’s – Garden Vegetable
Dr. McDougall’s – Garden Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $4.59
Ounces per can: 17.9
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 180 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 590mg | Carbs 57g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: Vegan. Low fat. Lower Sodium. We love sharing our favorite soups with you. Our lower sodium garden vegetable soup is a delicious blend of herbs and vegetables.
Our Thoughts: Bland, boring and watery. Lots of vegetables. Pete ended up re-seasoning it because it was that day’s lunch. It’s like no one over there knows that bay leaf exists.
No. 53: Kettle & Fire – Lentil & Vegetable
Kettle & Fire – Lentil & Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $5.99
Ounces per can: 16
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 250 | Fat 4.5g | Cholesterol 5mg | Sodium 1310mg | Carbs 40g | Protein 15g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Hearty chicken bone broth soup. Made with organic lentils. No artificial flavors. Legume means love. Every bowl of this slow-cooked, aromatic soup is beautifully balanced with tender lentils, sweet carrots and peppery bites of herbs. Go ahead, do something special for YOU today. GF
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Another awful looking and tasting soup. Tin taste even though it wasn’t even in a can. Bowl of mush. Not worth the price or the calories.” Pete: “What she said. Meh.”
No. 52: Dr. McDougall’s (Organic) – Lentil Vegetable with Kale
Dr. McDougall’s (Organic) – Lentil Vegetable with Kale
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $4.59
Ounces per can: 18
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 300 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 990mg | Carbs 55g | Protein 17g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: Vegan. Our organic lentil vegetable with kale soup makes a hearty meal.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Not a lot of vegetables or kale. Tasteless bean soup.” Pete: “I loves me some lentil soup and if you’re promising that and working kale into the equation, you’re going to have to work pretty hard. Not working for me.”
No. 51: Food Club (condensed) – Vegetable with beef stock
Food Club (condensed) – Vegetable with beef stock
– photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $1.25
Ounces per can: 10.75
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 80 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 830mg | Carbs 15g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Beef stock
Description: Add flavor to life.
Our Thoughts: Very little alphabet noodles and most were broken… why bother? We’d be bummed if we were kids. Carrots and potatoes were cubed and plentiful. Green beans, corn and peas were an afterthought. Metallic, tinny taste and smell.
No. 50: Amy’s Organic (low fat) – Vegetable Barley
Amy’s Organic (low fat) – Vegetable Barley
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $6.19
Ounces per can: 14.1
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 120 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1230mg | Carbs 14g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: No GMOs. This delightful blend of organic garden vegetables and barley cooked in a flavorful broth will make you feel warm and satisfied. It’s low fat and dairy free.
Our Thoughts: Pete: “Maybe I’m missing something, but don’t all canned goods come with non-BPA liners these days? If they don’t they should.” Yadi: “Tin can smell and taste. Light in color, just gross! I couldn’t take more than one bite of this one. Good veggie ratio if you can get past the ‘taste’.”
No. 49: Giant Eagle (Condensed) – Vegetarian Vegetable
Giant Eagle (Condensed) – Vegetarian Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Giant Eagle
Price: $1.19
Ounces per can: 10.75
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 650mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 2g
First ingredient: Water
Description: N/A
Our Thoughts: Carrot and potato soup???? Only a dozen or so alphabet shaped noodles, don’t bother if you are putting this few in a can. The little bit of corn that was in this soup was on the larger side. Just a bland and boring soup. Pass. Good price but not worth it.
No. 48: Kettle & Fire – Vegetable & Quinoa
Kettle & Fire – Vegetable & Quinoa
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $5.99
Ounces per can: 16
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 130 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1310mg | Carbs 22g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Hearty Soup made with chicken bone broth. Made with organic quinoa. No artificial flavors. Time to veg out. Cozy up to spoonsful of satisfaction. This well-seasoned soup gives you homemade comfort, with hearty, colorful veggies and savory bites of quinoa that’ll make you want seconds! (or thirds) GF
Our Thoughts: Lots of quinoa and chickpeas. Broth was just ok. Salt does not equal flavor. “Well seasoned,” but not the boxes we got. Yadi: “Did not have me wanting to go back for more as claimed.”
No. 47: Amy’s Organic Soups (Light in Sodium) – Lentil Vegetable
Amy’s Organic Soups (Light in Sodium) – Lentil Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveleland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Walmart
Price: $3.68
Ounces per can: 14.5
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 270 | Fat 7g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 540mg | Carbs 14g | Protein 11g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: At least 50% less sodium than our regular soup. GF. No GMOs. This delicious soup is full of vegetables, including organic green beans, tomatoes and spinach in a hearty, flavorful lentil base. This light in sodium soup has all the flavor but contains at least 50% less sodium than our regular soup.
Our Thoughts: Hard to get it all out of the can… too thick. Very dense and packed full of ingredient. But awful taste. Just bland and doesn’t smell good either. If you can get past that, you might enjoy this one but we wouldn’t recommend it.
No. 46: Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetable
Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $1.25
Ounces per can: 10.5
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 890mg | Carbs 19g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Beef stock
Description: Made with beef stock
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “It calls for one can of water… too much in our opinion. Fun alpha pasta. Lots of veggies but mushy. Sweet and a little salty.” Pete: “Childhood memories here, but also thinking maybe it wasn’t as good as nostalgia would have me believe. Go half-can on water.”
No. 45: dr. Kellyann – Chicken & Veggies
dr. Kellyann – Chicken & Veggies
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $6.49
Ounces per can: 14.5
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 160 | Fat 6g | Cholesterol 20mg | Sodium 850mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 11g
First ingredient: Chicken bone broth
Description: Made with dark chicken meat and vegetables. Savory bone broth soup. Milk free.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Very pale soup. It looked unappealing and it was. It was hard to find any chicken and veggies. Way too much broth. Terrible, watery and would not recommend. For the price I expected much more.”
No. 44: Food Club (Condensed) – Vegetable Beef
Food Club (Condensed) – Vegetable Beef
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $1.25
Ounces per can: 10.75
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 80 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 5mg | Sodium 850mg | Carbs 13g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Add flavor to life.
Our Thoughts: Jam packed in the can but very unappealing visually. Was it “beef”? Whatever it was, it was inedible. Smoky flavor but like bubble gum. Even after it was heated it was clumpy. Tin can taste. Decent size and amount of potatoes and carrots. Very few green beans and peas. Thicker but salty. Salt does not equal seasoning.
No. 43: Gardein – Plant-Based be’f & vegetable
Gardein – Plant-Based be’f & vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $5.99
Ounces per can: 15
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 230 | Fat 6g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1130mg | Carbs 27g | Protein 15g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Made with plant-based be’f & country vegetables. Always vegan. Be’f & Vegetable – It sounds like one delicious duo, but it’s actually a triple-threat of tender plant-based be’f, hearty homestyle broth, and a country blend of carrots, potatoes and peas.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Huge pieces of “be’f” but not enough veggies. Gravy brown sauce for the broth. OK flavor wise, but not great. Missing the veggies. Pass.” Pete: “Faux meat just doesn’t belong in soup. Tofu in pho is about as far as that metaphor should ever go.”
No. 42: Plantstrong – Split Pea & Vegetable
Plantstrong – Split Pea & Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $6.69
Ounces per can: 16.9
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 270 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 700mg | Carbs 52g | Protein 14g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: Organic stew. Plant-based. Plantstrong foods are always plant-based and free from processed oils, refined sugar, and excessive sodium.
Our Thoughts: Looked and smelled unappealing. Didn’t heat up well and very hard to distinguish ingredients. Hard pass. We agreed: “Not for me.”
No. 41: Annie’s (Gluten Free) – Vegetable soup with pasta
Annie’s (Gluten Free) – Vegetable soup with pasta
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 14
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 120 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 850mg | Carbs 26g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Made with goodness. Made with organic celery, corn and carrots. No preservatives or synthetic colors or artificial flavors. No high-fructose corn syrup.
Our Thoughts: Noodles were rubbery. Very few vegetables. A little thicker broth but not much flavor at all. We don’t agree with the “made with goodness,” at least not this can. Didn’t do anything for either of us.
No. 40: Pacific Foods (Organic) – Hearty Vegetable
Pacific Foods (Organic) – Hearty Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 16.3
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 140 | Fat 0 g | Cholesterol n/a | Sodium 1210mg | Carbs 30g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Plant-based. Gluten Free.
Our Thoughts: Salty! Good variety of veggies including corn, kale, peppers, carrots and little tomatoes. It was watery with a tin can taste. Nothing hearty in this can.
No. 39: Campbell’s (Condensed) – Beef with Vegetables & Barley
Campbell’s (Condensed) – Beef with Vegetables & Barley
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $1.89
Ounces per can: 10.5
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 100 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 5mg | Sodium 890mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Beef stock
Description: N/A
Our Thoughts: Salty! Very little vegetables. Some carrots, potatoes and a few peas. Beef was an afterthought. Tin can taste.
No. 38: Food Club (Hearty) – Vegetable Beef (reduced sodium)
Food Club (Hearty) – Vegetable Beef (reduced sodium)
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $2.69
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 120 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 410mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 9g
First ingredient: Water
Description: 97% fat free. Reduced sodium, 53% less sodium per serving than our regular chunky vegetable beef soup. No artificial flavors, or certified synthetic colors.
Our Thoughts: Another lighter in color veggie soup. Runny, but it did have lots of big vegetables. Very few tomatoes. The “beef” ratio was way off. Peppery taste but not enough seasoning overall. Pete: “This was 97% less enjoyable than it could have been.”
No. 37: Health Valley (Organic) – Vegetable (no salt added)
Health Valley (Organic) – Vegetable (no salt added)
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Heinen’s
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 15
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 45mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 2g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Gluten-Free. USDA Organic.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Yuck! Terrible. Give me unhealthy over this can. It was watery and tasted like it was made with well water. Skip this one.”
No. 36: Healthy Choice – Vegetable Beef
Healthy Choice – Vegetable Beef
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Marc’s
Price: $1.89
Ounces per can: 15
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 210 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 20mg | Sodium 670mg | Carbs 34g | Protein 13g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No artificial colors. No artificial flavors. 1 1/4 cups of vegetables per can.
Our Thoughts: You needed a can opener to get into this soup. Not ideal if you want to take it for lunch. The broth was lighter and very thin. The meat was the size of the corn. Big chunks of celery. But this soup lacked any flavor. Do you have to sacrifice flavor for “healthy” It seems so here?
No. 35: Mike’s Mighty Good (Vegetarian) – Vegetable Ramen
Mike’s Mighty Good (Vegetarian) – Vegetable Ramen
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $2.79
Ounces per can: 1.9
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 210 | Fat 4g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 810mg | Carbs 37g | Protein 8g
First ingredient: Organic non-bleached wheat flour
Description: Made with organic noodles. Insanely rich broth. At Mike’s Mighty Good we believe in good food. We’re about making Craft Ramen for a new generation. That’s why we make our own organic noodles from scratch and bring you insanely rich broths with simple ingredients. Taste the difference and savor the good.
Our Thoughts: No vegetables to be found except a few slices of mushroom. Lots of noodles that were good in a sweet broth. Fell short on the “mighty good.” Pete: “I might have liked this better if it had more veg.”
No. 34: Specially Selected Gourmet Soup – Hearty Vegetable
Specially Selected Gourmet Soup – Hearty Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Aldi
Price: $3.69
Ounces per can: 24
Servings per can: 3
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 160 | Fat 3g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1040mg | Carbs 31g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Water
Description: N/A
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Another glass soup container. Slight garlicky smell. Thick but sweet. Packed full of veggies and beans but too sweet for a soup.” Pete: “I didn’t dislike it entirely, but it was confusing on the palate. Also, props to the folks putting soup in glass. It’s a noble effort after all the metallic soup we’ve had to this point.”
No. 33: Food Club (Hearty) – Beef with homestyle vegetables
Food Club (Hearty) – Beef with homestyle vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $2.69
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 120 | Fat 3g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 860mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No artificial flavors or certified synthetic colors.
Our Thoughts: Not at all appetizing when you open the can. Clumpy and cloggy, congealed. Be sure you stir this one up well. Lots of veggies but not much meat. Don’t put meat first in the title if there isn’t much of it. Bland but the veggies were cooked well.
No. 32: Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetarian Vegetable
Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetarian Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Walmart
Price: $2.38
Ounces per can: 10.5
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 80 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 650mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Tomato puree
Description: 1 serving of veggies.
Our Thoughts: Lots of vegetables, carrots, peas, corn and potatoes. Alphabet pasta which was fun but sparse. A few green beans. Bland, ketchup-y broth. Only used half a can of water and we felt like even that was too much.
No. 31: Campbell’s (Condensed) – Veggie Safari
Campbell’s (Condensed) – Veggie Safari
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, clevelan.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $1.89
Ounces per can: 10.5
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 470mg | Carbs 15g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Shaped pasta & vegetables in vegetable broth. 1 serving of veggies. High fructose corn syrup.
Our Thoughts: Fun pasta shapes, but not enough veggies. Some corn and carrots and a few peas. Lost in all of the liquid and we didn’t use the whole can of water as recommended. Tomato ketchup-y taste.
No. 30: Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetable Beef
Campbell’s (Condensed) – Vegetable Beef
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Sav a Lot
Price: $2.00
Ounces per can: 10.5
Servings per can: 2.5
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 5mg | Sodium 840mg | Carbs 15g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Beef stock
Description: Low in cholesterol
Our Thoughts: Was it really beef? Glad they didn’t put very much in the can. Gummy and smoky flavor. You did get a decent amount of peas and barley. At least we both thought the beef-flavored broth was tolerable.
No. 29: Great Value (Hearty) – Beef with Vegetables
Great Value (Hearty) – Beef with Vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Walmart
Price: $1.50
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 130 | Fat 3.5g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 850mg | Carbs 20g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Heat and eat.
Our Thoughts: Thick. They didn’t skimp on the ingredients. The veggies were cooked well. Would warm you up on a cold day. A little salt would have helped this one score higher.
No. 28: Pacific Foods (Organic) – Vegetable Lentil
Pacific Foods (Organic) – Vegetable Lentil
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 16.3
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 260 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1200mg | Carbs 47g | Protein 14g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Plant-based
Our Thoughts: Very heavy on the beans with little veggies. Reminiscent of a watery chili without the meat. More bean veggie than “veggie with lentil” as described.
No. 27: Rao’s (Made for Home Slow Simmered Soup) – Tortellini & Vegetable
Rao’s (Made for Home Slow Simmered Soup) – Tortellini & Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $6.59
Ounces per can: 16
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 230 | Fat 7g | Cholesterol <5mg | Sodium 1140mg | Carbs 34g | Protein 8g
First ingredient: Chicken broth
Description: No artificial colors or flavors. No preservatives
Our Thoughts: There were a measly 9 tortellini in the entire jar. The celery and carrots were watery. The tortellini were on the bigger side, but this was a boring soup. Salt was all I could taste but it wasn’t salty. Nor fragrant at all. Pete: “I didn’t hate it, but more seasoning, less salt and more tortellini would have made it 1,000% better.”
No. 26: Rao’s Made for Home Slow Simmered Soup – Vegetable Minestrone
Rao’s Made for Home Slow Simmered Soup – Vegetable Minestrone
-= Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Walmart
Price: $3.98
Ounces per can: 16
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 170 | Fat 1g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1220mg | Carbs 34g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No artificial colors or flavors. No preservatives. Slow simmered Italian style soup.
Our Thoughts: Disappointing. Although it had big veggies (green beans, carrots, celery, peas…) there were only 5 kidney beans in the entire jar. It was watery and had little flavor. We both wanted to love this one. Sad.
No. 25: Amy’s Organic Soups – Southwestern Vegetable Fire Roasted
Amy’s Organic Soups – Southwestern Vegetable Fire Roasted
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 14.3
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 200 | Fat 8g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1130mg | Carbs 29g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: Gluten Free. No GMO’s. Plant based. Organic fire roasted corn, onions and bell peppers are combined with vegetables and black beans. This soup is mildly seasoned with organic green chiles and spices, giving it an especially delicious Southwest-style flavor.
Our Thoughts: They were accurate in “mildly seasoned,” as in not enough. You got a hint of fire roasted flavor. Lots of veggies and on the thick side. It just didn’t deliver on promise. Pete: “Don’t tell me chiles and then do this.”
No. 24: Great Value (Traditional) – Vegetable
Great Value (Traditional) – Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Walmart
Price: $1.50
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 650mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Chicken broth
Description: Heat and eat.
Our Thoughts: This one had actual carrot slices instead of the little cubes. Big pieces of potatoes and lots of peas. The noodles were on the watery side (way overcooked). The potatoes were cooked well and it had a decent flavor for a store brand.
No. 23: Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Lentil with Roasted Vegetables
Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Lentil with Roasted Vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Heinen’s
Price: $3.29
Ounces per can: 19
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 690mg | Carbs 20g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Gluten Free. Vegetarian. No colors from artificial sources. No artificial flavors.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Very small and few vegetables. Dark broth which was a bit watery. Rich barley flavor, but not a veggie soup in my opinion.” Pete: “Needed more veggies for sure. This is a lentil soup.”
No. 22: Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Vegetarian Vegetable with Barley
Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Vegetarian Vegetable with Barley
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Giant Eagle
Price: $2.99
Ounces per can: 19
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 670mg | Carbs 19g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No colors from artificial sources. No artificial flavors.
Our Thoughts: Orang-y in color. Very tomato forward. Almost too tomato pasty taste. A tad salty. And surprisingly not many tomatoes to be seen. Lots of barley and corn. Small potatoes and a decent amount of beans.
No. 21: ZOUP! – Garden Vegetable
ZOUP! – Garden Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $5.39
Ounces per can: 16
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 200 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1300mg | Carbs 41g | Protein 8g
First ingredient: Savory veggie broth
Description: Good, really good. Made with ZOUP! Good, really good savory veggie broth. No artificial ingredients. No preservatives. Vegan. Gluten Free
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “This soup comes in a glass jar. It has big chunks of veggies. Aromatic tomato saucy with not much flavor. It is on the thicker side. Plenty of carrots and green beans but light on the chickpeas. I was expecting ‘really good’ and this fell short.” Pete: “Bums me out because their jarred broths are mind-blowingly good in all cooking applications.”
No. 20: Annie’s (Organic) – Vegetable with Farm-shaped pasta
Annie’s (Organic) – Vegetable with Farm-shaped pasta
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Whole Foods
Price: $3.99
Ounces per can: 14
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 140 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 920mg | Carbs 29g | Protein 5g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Made with goodness. No artificial flavors, synthetic colors or preservatives. No high fructose corn syrup. Vegetarian soup
Our Thoughts: The pasta shapes were super fun and cute. Wish there was more. Medium thickness but not full of flavor. A bit boring and bland. Pete: “Annie’s is always lacking in the flavor department. I’m forever re-seasoning my servings of whatever they offer.”
No. 19: Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Vegetable
Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Heinen’s
Price: $3.29
Ounces per can: 19
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 80 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 600mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No calories from artificial sources. No artificial flavors.
Our Thoughts: Huge slices of carrots. Very little corn, green beans and tomatoes. There were big chunks of potatoes but there were only four. Tomato based. Pete: “C’mon, Progresso. You’re better than this!”
No. 18: Trader Joe’s – Garden Vegetable
Trader Joe’s – Garden Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Trader Joe’s
Price: $3.99
Ounces per can: 25.75
Servings per can: 3
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 100 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 790mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 2g
First ingredient: Vegetable broth
Description: N/A
Our Thoughts: Slightly sweet and peppery. Lots of tomatoes and veggies, but they were on the smaller side. Not watery but also not too thick, decent texture. Nice in between. We both agreed this a tomato soup taste.
No. 17: Amy’s (Organic) – Chunky Vegetable
Amy’s (Organic) – Chunky Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 114.38.8
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 130 | Fat 2.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1200mg | Carbs 22g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: GF, no GMOs. Low fat. Chunks of tender organic vegetables in a flavorful broth give this soup a satisfying homemade taste. It contains no dairy or gluten.
Our Thoughts: Quality control didn’t miss this can. Lots of ALL the veggies promised. They were small and finely chopped but all there. Easy to get some of everything in every spoonful. A bit too tomato-y pasty for my taste but a good warm your belly veg soup.
No. 16: Progresso – Hearty grain vegetable
Progresso – Hearty grain vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $1.98
Ounces per can: 19
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 130 | Fat 2.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 680mg | Carbs 20g | Protein 8g
First ingredient: Water
Description: No colors from artificial sources. No Artificial flavors.
Our Thoughts: Looked like a bisque but wasn’t that thick. Lots of chickpeas with very few other veggies. Is it vegetable or chickpea soup? Needed more barley, not hearty but nice thick broth.
No. 15: Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Garden Vegetable
Progresso (Vegetable classics) – Garden Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Heinen’s
Price: $3.29
Ounces per can: 18.5
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 90 | Fat 0g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 650mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Gluten Free. No colors from artificial sources. No artificial flavors
Our Thoughts: Big kidney beans; big potatoes; lots of carrots, celery, tomatoes and corn. Broth was on the lighter side, but not in a distracting way. Decent veggie soup with good flavor and texture.
No. 14: Trader Joe’s (Organic) – lentil vegetable
Trader Joe’s – Organic lentil vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Trader Joe’s
Price: $2.49
Ounces per can: 15
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 360 | Fat 4.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1210mg | Carbs 62g | Protein 21g
First ingredient: Organic lentils
Description: Vegan. Gluten-Free
Our Thoughts: Smaller veggies, but since the beans are small it makes sense from a texture perspective. Medium thickness and a tad peppery. Good flavor, not your typical veggie soup.
No. 13: Amy’s (Hearty Organic) – Hearty Minestrone with vegetables
Amy’s (Hearty Organic) – Hearty Minestrone with vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Acme
Price: $6.19
Ounces per can: 14.1
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 130 | Fat 2.5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1200mg | Carbs 22g | Protein 4g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: Our chef’s brother, who runs an international cooking school near Tours, France, developed this Minestrone rich with organic vegetables, grains and lentils. An unexpected hint of pesto adds flavor you’re sure to enjoy.
Our Thoughts: Nice appealing smell. Packed full of ingredients. Nice and thick but not too much. Everything was cut to the same size, so you get it all in one bite. Carrots, tomatoes, lentils… a lot of ingredients in this compact can. Smells and taste good. Pete: “Now we’re getting somewhere!”
No. 12: Campbell’s (Chunky) – Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef
Campbell’s (Chunky) – Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $4.78
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 870mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Conquer life’s hungry moments with Chunky. Soup that eats like a meal.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “There were only six cubes of meat in my can…wish there was more since it was actually good. At two servings per can, I would want more than three pieces. A bit on the runny side but it had good flavor. Now, if only they would step up the meat game.” Pete: “I had more meat in my can. I do love Chunky soup.”
No. 11: Campbell’s (Chunky – Healthy request) – Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef
Campbell’s (Chunky – Healthy request) – Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $4.78
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 410mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Heart healthy. 15g protein per can. Soup that eats like a meal.
Our Thoughts: Lighter but still on the “hearty” side. Lots of beef and veggies. Good flavor, not too thick. Filling.
No. 10: Meijer – Sirloin burger with vegetables
Meijer – Sirloin burger with vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $1.99
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 140 | Fat 5g | Cholesterol 20mg | Sodium 810mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Ready-to-serve soup. Low cholesterol. No certified synthetic colors.
Our Thoughts: Super-sized carrots and potatoes. Little circular grilled patties. The veggies and potatoes maintained a good texture. The meat was dry. The broth was like a gravy but it was seasoned well. And spot on with the ingredients. A filling soup. Pete: “Almost like beef stew. Very filling.”
No. 9: Progresso (Simple favorites) – Beef Vegetable
Progresso (Simple favorites) – Beef Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $2.55
Ounces per can: 14
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 150 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 1040mg | Carbs 25g | Protein 9g
First ingredient: Beef broth
Description: N/A
Our Thoughts: Seven little cubes of beef to be found in this can. Lots of tomatoes, carrots, green beans and potatoes. Flavored well. Not runny and the vegetables maintained good texture. A filling soup.
No. 8: Progresso (Traditional) – Beef & Vegetable
Progresso (Traditional) – Beef & Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Heinen’s
Price: $3.29
Ounces per can: 18.5
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 100 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 670mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Beef broth
Description: No artificial flavors. Gluten Free.
Our Thoughts: Huge potato chunks, good broth that was on the lighter side. Good ratio of veggies. We would both buy this one again. Definitely more upsides than downsides here.
No. 7: Amy’s Organic (Hearty) – Fresh country vegetables
Amy’s Organic (Hearty) – Fresh country vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Fresh Thyme
Price: $4.49
Ounces per can: 14.4
Servings per can: 1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 360 | Fat 15g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 1200mg | Carbs 46g | Protein 10g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Description: GF, No GMOs. Our chef’s brother, who runs an international cooking school near Tours, France, created this Hearty French Country Vegetable Soup with organic long-grain red rice, vegetables and traditional herbs.
Our Thoughts: Very thick soup that plopped out of the can. Stayed thick while it warmed up. Packed full of beans and veggies, it even had mushrooms. Eats like a chili, no crackers needed. Nice smoky flavor. Very rustic.
No. 6: Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Steak & Vegetables
Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Steak & Vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $2.55
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 100 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 670mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 5g
First ingredient: Beef broth
Description: Gluten Free
Our Thoughts: Beefy flavor and smell as soon as you opened up the microwave. Big potatoes and carrots but little peas and tomatoes. A little more meat than found in some other varieties, but in small pieces. A thicker beef broth which was flavorful and lived up to the aroma.
No. 5: Campbell’s (Chunky – Healthy request) – Beef with country vegetables
Campbell’s (Chunky – Healthy request) – Beef with country vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $4.78
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 15mg | Sodium 410mg | Carbs 17g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Eat your meat and feel better about it. Soup that eats like a meal. Heart healthy.
Our Thoughts: There was more beef in this can than any of the others from this brand. Thank you. The broth was thick, lots of big veggies and good flavor. Pete: “Never surprising! This one is on repeat. Perfect quick meal.”
No. 4: Campbell’s (Chunky) – Sirloin Burger with County Vegetables
Campbell’s (Chunky) – Sirloin Burger with County Vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Giant Eagle
Price: $2.99
Ounces per can: 18.8
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 140 | Fat 4g | Cholesterol 15mg | Sodium 790mg | Carbs 18g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Beef stock
Description: Chunky soup, it’s all about the burger.
Our Thoughts: Yadi: “Six must be this brand’s lucky number, as that was how many pieces of meat there were to be found in this can. I wouldn’t share them. Nice smoky flavor and packed with big veggies. Since it’s ‘all about the burger’ give us a little more.” Pete: “Agreed. This one is a childhood throwback. Weren’t there grill marks on the burgers when this came out?”
No. 3: Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Beef Pot Roast with Country Vegetables
Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Beef Pot Roast with Country Vegetables
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Sav a Lot
Price: $2.29
Ounces per can: 18.5
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 1.5g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 690mg | Carbs 19g | Protein 7g
First ingredient: Beef broth
Description: Gluten Free. For over 100 years, our kitchens have crafted honest, soul-satisfying recipes with real ingredients you’re proud to serve.
Our Thoughts: Nice pearl onions…. wish there had been more. Good balance of carrots, green beans and potatoes. Thicker, sweeter broth. There was a good amount of meat, but it was cut very small. Pete: “Pearl onions FTW!”
No. 2: Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Savory Beef Barley Vegetable
Progresso (Rich & Hearty) – Savory Beef Barley Vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Meijer
Price: $2.55
Ounces per can: 18.6
Servings per can: 2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 110 | Fat 2g | Cholesterol 10mg | Sodium 670mg | Carbs 16g | Protein 6g
First ingredient: Beef broth
Description: No artificial flavors.
Our Thoughts: Big, beefy broth flavor. Smaller cut on the carrots. Yadi and Pete had some discrepancies in their servings. Yadi complained about there “not being enough veggies or beef,” but Pete had more of both and plenty of barley” so he ranked this one much higher. Take note: your results may vary. Could be a quality control issue.
No. 1: Deutsche Kuche – Fall harvest vegetable
Deutsche Kuche – Fall harvest vegetable
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.comYadi Rodriguez
Where we bought it: Aldi
Price: $2.65
Ounces per can: 28
Servings per can: 3
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat .5g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 780mg | Carbs 14g | Protein 3g
First ingredient: Water
Description: Authentic German food. A zesty blend of spaghetti and garden vegetables.
Our Thoughts: Light in color, like a chicken soup. Good aroma when heated up. You wanted to take a bite. Lots of spaghetti and veggies. Although the light color broth wasn’t too thick, the number of veggies and ingredients helped to thicken it up. This soup had good flavor, so it lived up to the smell. I would definitely recommend this on when you are sick or just hankering for a good, canned soup. Keep a few of these in the pantry.
More of the “Best of Cleveland” team’s food rankings:
Ranking 25 varieties of frozen waffles from worst to best
Ranking 24 varieties of buttered microwave popcorn from worst to best
Ranking 38 varieties of Little Debbie treats from worst to best
Ranking 13 fast-food spicy chicken sandwiches
Ranking 19 fast-food crispy chicken sandwiches
Ranking 9 varieties of Jimmy Dean Breakfast Bowls from worst to best
Ranking 21 varieties of Pop-Tarts from worst to best
Ranking 20 frozen potato tots from worst to best
Ranking 29 Lean Cuisine Protein Kicks meals from worst to best
Ranking 32 grocery-store ranch dips from worst to best, just in time for the Super Bowl
