Hoover Stew

A budget-friendly pasta stew made with canned ingredients and hot dogs.

Here’s a classic Hoover Stew recipe, a Depression-era meal that was affordable, filling, and easy to make with whatever ingredients were on hand.

2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)

4 hot dogs, sliced into rounds

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

1 can (14.5 oz) mixed vegetables (drained)

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 cups water or broth

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

 

Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

In a large pot, add the sliced hot dogs and cook over medium heat for a few minutes until lightly browned.

Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, tomato sauce, and water/broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve warm and enjoy!

This meal was commonly served in soup kitchens and households trying to stretch their food supply.