Vegetable Beef Soup is the perfect to warm your heart and fill your belly! It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and loaded with vegetables that make it a comforting meal for any day of the week. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something cozy, this soup will hit the spot.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s also a great way to use up those veggies in your fridge. The combination of beef and vegetables makes for a filling meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for busy days when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Your family will thank you!
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned. If there’s too much fat, drain it off.
- Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are softened and smell delicious.
- Next, toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, zucchini, green beans, and diced potatoes. Stir everything together.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in the oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
- Bring the pot to a boil, and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
- Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and serve hot!
How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup
Serve your Vegetable Beef Soup in warm bowls. You can add some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese on top can also make it extra special!
How to Store Vegetable Beef Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
- For added flavor, try using beef broth made from scratch or a store-bought high-quality broth.
- Feel free to mix in or substitute other vegetables like corn or peas based on what you like or have on hand.
- If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot as you stir.
Variation
You can turn this soup into a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you like a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken! Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using chicken breast or thighs.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the beef with beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more veggies for flavor.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef in a pan first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Enjoy!