There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup to warm you up on a chilly day. Packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, this comforting soup is a meal in itself.
I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter evening, searching for something wholesome yet simple to prepare. It quickly became a family favorite, gracing our dinner table throughout the season. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special.
Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Beef Soup
Get ready to embrace your new go-to recipe for a satisfying dinner. This Vegetable Beef Soup is a true classic that checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and nutrition.
First, this soup is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, the straightforward steps ensure success every time. With a bit of prep and simmering, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
It’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Loaded with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and green beans, this soup provides a medley of vitamins and minerals in every spoonful. Plus, the tender beef adds protein to keep you full and energized.
One of the best things about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is. Using affordable ingredients like beef chuck and pantry staples, you can whip up a hearty dish without breaking the bank.
Finally, the versatility of this soup makes it a star. Whether you want to use up leftover veggies or swap in your favorites, it’s easy to customize to your taste.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this Vegetable Beef Soup lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
The base of the soup is beef chuck, which becomes incredibly tender as it simmers. I recommend cutting it into bite-sized pieces and browning it beforehand to enhance the flavor. If you prefer leaner cuts, you can substitute sirloin or even ground beef, but keep in mind the texture will differ.
For the vegetables, carrots, celery, and potatoes are a must for their hearty and comforting qualities. Green beans and corn add pops of color and sweetness, making every bite a treat. Feel free to add or swap veggies depending on what you have on hand.
The soup’s base is a flavorful mix of beef broth and tomato paste. The broth creates a savory depth, while the tomato paste adds a subtle tang that ties the flavors together. If you like a spicier kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Herbs like thyme and bay leaves are the unsung heroes here, infusing the broth with an earthy aroma. If you prefer fresh herbs, a handful of chopped parsley right before serving is a lovely touch.
For special equipment, a large Dutch oven or stockpot is ideal. It ensures even cooking and plenty of room to stir all the ingredients.
How to Make This Vegetable Beef Soup
Making this hearty soup is as easy as it is rewarding. Follow these steps for a foolproof bowl of deliciousness.
Start by prepping your beef. Cut it into bite-sized cubes, pat them dry, and season with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of oil in your pot over medium-high heat, then sear the beef in batches until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. These aromatics lay the foundation for the soup’s rich flavor.
Next, deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth or water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add your tomato paste, stirring until it’s evenly combined. This step deepens the soup’s savory notes.
Return the beef to the pot, along with the remaining broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, and thyme. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while tenderizing the beef.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the green beans and corn. These vegetables don’t require as much cooking time and will retain their texture and color.
Your soup is ready when the vegetables are tender and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth soft. Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or a dash of vinegar for brightness.
Storage Options
This Vegetable Beef Soup is a meal prep dream. It stores beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeks.
To refrigerate, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing. Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label them with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating is a breeze. Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Variations and Substitutions
The flexibility of this soup is one of its greatest assets. Here are some ideas to make it your own.
For a lighter version, swap the beef for chicken thighs or use a vegetarian protein like lentils or chickpeas.
If you want a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. This addition transforms the dish into something truly indulgent.
Experiment with grains by adding barley, quinoa, or rice to the pot. These options make the soup even more filling and hearty.
Switch up the herbs by trying rosemary, oregano, or a mix of Italian seasoning. Each one offers a unique twist on the classic flavor.
Don’t be afraid to play with heat. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can add an exciting kick for spice lovers.
With endless possibilities, this recipe invites you to experiment and discover your perfect version. Enjoy exploring new flavors while staying cozy with a timeless favorite.
PrintVegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vegetable beef soup recipe is a delicious, wholesome, and easy-to-make dish filled with tender beef chunks, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, this hearty soup is a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the potatoes, green beans, corn, and tomatoes.
- Pour in the beef broth and season with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or peas for variety.
- Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over salt levels.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
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