Best homemade vegetable beef soup recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and nostalgia of a hearty vegetable beef soup. This vegetable beef soup recipe embodies the essence of home-cooked meals, bringing together tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic seasonings to create a symphony of flavors in a single bowl. 

With just about 45 minutes to prepare, this recipe can deliver all the heartwarming comfort that families have cherished for generations. Growing up, my mother was the queen of soups, and her slow cooked vegetable beef soup was always a dish worth waiting for on chilly days. 

However, time constraints often make those cherished recipes challenging to whip up. That’s why this simplified version is a game-changer. It not only blends the rich flavors reminiscent of Mom's classic recipe but also cuts down on prep time. Key highlights of this easy recipe include:

• Speed: Ready in just 45 minutes, excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: like ground beef, potatoes, and mixed vegetables .
• Customizability: add your favorite veggies or switch the protein. 

Get ready to experience a bowl of deliciousness that brings a smile with every spoonful!

Ingredients for Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

When crafting a flavorful vegetable beef soup recipe, the choice of vegetables is paramount. This recipe calls for a delightful mix of colorful veggies that not only enhance the taste but also make the dish visually appealing. Here’s what you will need

•  1/2 beef stew meat Cut into ½-inch cubes (1,27 cm)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (4 cloves)
•  3/4 cups chopped yellow onion (1 large)
• 8 cups low-sodium beef broth or chicken broth

• 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
•  1/4 cups peeled and chopped carrots (3 medium)

• 1 cup chopped celery (3 medium)
• 2 (14 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 lb red or yellow potatoes, chopped into 3/4-inch cubes
•  1/2 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 cups (5 oz.) chopped green beans (trim ends first)
• 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley

As I grew up, my mom would often add fresh produce from her vegetable garden to her soups, giving each bowl a unique, personal flavor. Feel free to experiment and customize based on your own tastes!

How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup recipe

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Pat the beef dry with paper towels, season with salt and pepper, then add half of the beef to the pot and brown for about 4 minutes, turning halfway through. Transfer to a plate, add another 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the pot, and repeat with the remaining beef.

Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the now-empty pot, then sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in the broth and tomatoes, then add the browned beef, basil, oregano, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. 

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add potatoes and continue to simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. (If you prefer soft green beans, you can add them with the potatoes.) 

Stir in green beans and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until all the vegetables and beef are tender. Add corn and peas and simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir in parsley and serve warm.

Ideas for Serving the recipe

Once your quick and easy vegetable beef soup recipe is ready, it’s time to serve up a delightful meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. Here are some delicious ideas for serving: 

Fresh Bread: Nothing pairs better with a hearty soup than homemade cornbread or a warm baguette. It’s perfect for dipping into the delicious broth.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! The gooey, melted cheese alongside the savory soup creates a comforting meal that reminds you of cozy kitchen dinners from childhood.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a vibrant touch and enhances the flavors. It’s both visually appealing and delicious. or  A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.

I still recall the laughter and warmth shared during dinner with my family, all gathered around our kitchen table enjoying this wholesome soup.

How Do You Prepare Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup ?

You can make this in the slow cooker, but it's best to begin by browning the beef and sautéing the carrots, onions, celery, and garlic first. 

Once done, transfer both mixtures into a large slow cooker along with all the other ingredients, except for the frozen vegetables. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the beef and potatoes are tender. Then, add the frozen peas and corn and cook until heated through.

How to Substitute with Ground Beef recipe?

This recipe is highly versatile. You can easily swap in ground beef for the beef stew meat. However, if you choose ground beef, you won’t need to simmer as long, so skip the initial 30-minute simmering step and go straight to adding the potatoes. Alternatively, you can use a chuck roast instead of beef stew meat, especially if it's 

on sale—just cut it into pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What should I do if my vegetable beef soup recipe lacks flavor? To enhance the taste of your recipe, make sure to brown the beef and onions at the beginning. If the soup still feels bland after cooking, increase the amount of spices and herbs, and let the soup simmer a bit longer so the flavors can blend together.

Can I swap out the vegetables? Yes, feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have available. For more variety, you can add ingredients like fresh garlic, canned corn, frozen peas, or asparagus. Just remember to add softer vegetables toward the end, around the same time you would add green beans.

Can I freeze vegetable beef soup ? Yes, this recipe can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to three months. Keep in mind that due to the potatoes, the texture may become softer and less firm once thawed .