Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Combines tender beef with a medley of vegetables for a filling meal.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your choice of fresh or frozen vegetables.

• Flavorful: Slow simmering melds the flavors beautifully, creating a rich broth.

• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it convenient to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or stew meat

• Olive oil

• Onion

• Garlic

• Carrots

• Potatoes

• Green beans

• Peas

• Corn

• Diced tomatoes

• Beef broth

• Water

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dried thyme

• Dried oregano

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Bay leaf

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or stew meat and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, green beans, peas, corn, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.

5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings.

• Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.

• Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour.

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with stew meat, ground turkey, or chicken for a different flavor profile.

• Vegetable Choices: Use your preferred fresh or frozen vegetables to customize the soup to your liking.

• Grain Addition: Add cooked barley or rice for extra heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

• Freezer: Freeze in portioned airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely, frozen vegetables work well and can be added directly to the pot without thawing.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free, this soup is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes, adding small pasta shapes like macaroni or ditalini can make the soup even heartier. Add cooked pasta towards the end of cooking.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

How do I adjust the seasoning?

Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.

Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

While beef broth adds a rich flavor, you can use chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored, the soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its hearty combination of tender beef and colorful vegetables in a flavorful broth makes it a family favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy this delicious soup with your favorite sides and savor the warmth it brings to your table.