Shepherd's Pie Soup

1 pound ground beef
5 cups water
2 ( 10 1/2 ounce) cans condensed beef broth
1 (16 ounce) package frozen diced potatoes
1 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups instant mashed potato flakes

In a soup pot, brown ground beef over medium-high heat; drain. Add water, beef broth, potatoes, vegetables, onion powder, salt and black pepper; mix well. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 12 to 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Stir in potato flakes and cook 5 to 7 minutes, or until thickened. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.