Nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of hearty vegetable beef soup. This classic comfort food combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth to create a meal that is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly night or looking for a nutritious one-pot meal, this soup is easy to make and perfect for the whole family.
With savory chunks of beef, soft potatoes, sweet carrots, and a medley of colorful veggies, this recipe is a delicious and wholesome dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the best homemade vegetable beef soup recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
- Rich and Flavorful – A slow-simmered broth with juicy beef and aromatic seasonings.
- Loaded with Nutritious Vegetables – Packed with carrots, potatoes, peas, and green beans.
- Filling and Satisfying – A high-protein, fiber-rich meal that keeps you full.
- One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup and minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
Ingredients for Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
Here’s everything you need to create this delicious homemade beef soup:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Beef stew meat, diced into small chunks | 2 lbs |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Yellow onion, chopped | ½ cup |
| Carrots, peeled and sliced | 3 medium |
| Celery, sliced | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 2 tsp |
| Diced tomatoes (with juice) | 1 can (28 oz) |
| Italian seasoning | 1½ tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Beef broth | 7 cups |
| Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed | 2 large |
| Frozen corn | ½ cup |
| Frozen peas | ½ cup |
| Frozen green beans, chopped | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tsp |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
1. Sear the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef stew meat with salt and black pepper.
- Add the beef to the pot and sear on all sides until browned.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Return the seared beef to the pot.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
5. Add the Potatoes and Frozen Vegetables
- Stir in the chopped potatoes and cook for 20 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the frozen corn, peas, and green beans, cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
6. Finish and Serve
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Serve Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
- With Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, buttered bread pairs perfectly with this soup.
- Over Rice or Noodles – Add cooked rice or egg noodles to make it even heartier.
- With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Topped with Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds extra depth.
Health Benefits of Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
1. High in Protein and Iron
- Beef provides essential protein and iron, which are important for muscle growth and energy.
2. Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants
- Carrots, tomatoes, and parsley are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function.
3. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
- Celery and potatoes provide fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
4. Great for Heart Health
- Olive oil and vegetables contain heart-healthy nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties.
Expert Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup
1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
- Chuck roast or stew meat is best for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful.
2. Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor
- Browning the meat locks in juices and creates a deeper flavor.
3. Let the Soup Simmer for Better Taste
- A longer cooking time enhances the broth and tenderizes the beef.
4. Make It Ahead for a More Flavorful Soup
- Soups taste better the next day as the flavors have time to develop.
5. Use Fresh Herbs for a Flavor Boost
- Fresh parsley, thyme, or basil can elevate the soup’s taste.
Delicious Variations of Vegetable Beef Soup
1. Spicy Southwest Beef Soup 🌶️
- Add cumin, chili powder, and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.
2. Low-Carb Beef Soup 🥦
- Swap potatoes for cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
3. Italian-Style Beef Soup 🇮🇹
- Stir in cannellini beans, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup 🍲
- Cook on low for 8 hours for a tender, rich soup.
5. Mediterranean Beef Soup 🌿
- Add olives, lemon juice, and oregano for a Greek-inspired version.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing for Later
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
3. Best Ways to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes! Brown ground beef before adding vegetables.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
4. How do I thicken the broth?
Mash a few potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
5. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This hearty vegetable beef soup is a timeless, comforting dish that’s packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this soup will always be a satisfying choice.
