Basic Pasta Beef or Chicken Soup

I read a similar recipe to this on Cooks.com. When I would watch my 2 DGDs after school, in the winter, they would want something warm. I experimented a little and came up with this recipe they seem to like. I got to be looking forward to a steaming bowl of this soup with a handful of croutons floating in it,too. I used this soup to test various croutons too. A real quick, simple meal. Any of these ingredients may be omitted or others added. I am still experimenting, too. I started using small soup mugs for the children when I discovered their smaller hands could control the mug, because of the handle,better, plus they think it is cool.

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 4-6
• Yields: 4-6 Mugs, or small bowls

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup small shell pasta, any style.
• 1⁄4 cup dry lentils
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped dried mushroom
• 2  tablespoons parmesan cheese
• 1  tablespoon  minced  dried onion
• 2  tablespoons chicken bouillon granules or 2  tablespoons beef bouillon granules
• 1  tablespoon parsley flakes
• 1  teaspoon oregano
• 1  teaspoon garlic powder
• 3  cups water

Directions

1. Place dry ingredients, except macaroni, in saucepan, and add water.
2. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.
3. Add macaroni and cook for 10 more minutes.
4. Remove from heat for a few minutes to cool and ladle into soup mugs and serve, with small size croutons or oyster crackers.