Vegetable beef soup is a hearty and warming dish packed with flavor and nutrients. This comforting recipe serves as the perfect one-pot meal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. With its rich beef broth and an array of colorful vegetables, this soup celebrates wholesome ingredients while being incredibly satisfying. As the flavors meld together during simmering, your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table.
Why We Love This Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
This vegetable beef soup recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it combines the richness of ground beef with a melody of vegetables that not only adds flavor but also enhances health benefits. The tomatoes lend a natural sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory notes beautifully. Furthermore, it comes together easily, allowing you to create a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a dish to warm you up or a delicious way to sneak in more veggies, this soup truly is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients about Vegetable Beef Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed tomato soup
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup Directions
Making vegetable beef soup is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Start by taking a large pot or Dutch oven and placing it over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula or spoon. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s evenly browned. As the beef cooks, ensure to drain any excess grease if necessary.
Once the beef is browned, add a small diced onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic into the pot. Cook this mixture for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the onion to become translucent and aromatic. At this point, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, which will enhance the overall flavor profile of your soup.
Next, pour in 3 1/2 cups of rich beef broth for a foundational flavor, followed by adding one 15-ounce can of petite diced tomatoes including the juice to keep all the flavors intact. For added creaminess and depth, stir in a 10.5-ounce can of condensed tomato soup. To elevate the taste further, you’ll want to mix in 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning for a herby kick.
Now it’s time for the vegetables. Stir in a 16-ounce bag of frozen mixed vegetables and add 2 medium diced potatoes to the pot. Ensure everything is well combined. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully while softening the potatoes.
After half an hour, taste your soup and feel free to adjust the seasoning if necessary. If everything tastes fantastic, it’s ready to serve.
How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup
Serving your vegetable beef soup is as delightful as making it. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a good amount of beef and veggies. This soup is filling enough to stand alone, but you can enhance your meal even more. Consider serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the savory broth, or for a touch of sweetness, fresh cornbread pairs wonderfully too.
If you’re gathering friends or family, consider garnishing each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This simple touch elevates the presentation, making your homemade soup an inviting centerpiece at the dining table.
Expert Tips: Vegetable Beef Soup
Creating the perfect vegetable beef soup is not only about following the recipe but also about the little tips that can enhance your dish further:
- Quality of Ingredients: Use good-quality ground beef for better flavor. Aim for lean beef to keep the soup healthier without excess fat.
- Veggies Variations: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites. Fresh or even canned vegetables can add different textures and flavors. Carrots or green beans work wonderfully too.
- Cooking Techniques: For a deeper flavor, consider browning the beef with the onion and garlic. This caramelization process adds a lovely richness to your soup.
- Seasoning: Remember to taste your soup as it cooks. Adjust the seasoning gradually to achieve your perfect flavor balance.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes once they are tender. This natural starch thickens the soup without any additional steps.
How to Store Vegetable Beef Soup
Storing your leftover vegetable beef soup is easy and efficient. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a little extra broth if the soup has thickened too much during freezing.
Variation of Vegetable Beef Soup
One of the greatest things about vegetable beef soup is its versatility. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your soup for a warm kick.
- Herb Flavor: Instead of Italian seasoning, experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Herbes de Provence for a different flavor profile.
- Different Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for other proteins such as ground turkey or chicken, if you’re looking for a lighter version.
- Beans for Protein: Add a can of beans, like kidney or black beans, to increase the protein and fiber content while making it even more filling.
- Root Vegetables: Experiment with adding parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips for interesting textures and flavors.
FAQ
What is vegetable beef soup?
Vegetable beef soup is a comforting dish made from ground beef and a blend of colorful vegetables simmered in a rich broth, making it a hearty one-pot meal.
How can I enhance the flavor of vegetable beef soup?
You can enhance the flavor by using quality ingredients, adjusting the seasoning to taste, and incorporating additional herbs and spices.
Can I make vegetable beef soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can brown the beef first, then throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook it on low for 6-8 hours for a convenient and flavorful dish.
Can I freeze vegetable beef soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months.
What can I serve with vegetable beef soup?
Vegetable beef soup is great on its own but pairs well with fresh bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients
Meat & Broth
- 1 lb ground beef Use good-quality lean beef for better flavor.
- 3.5 cups beef broth Rich beef broth for foundational flavor.
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced Adds a sweet and aromatic base.
- 1 tsp garlic, minced Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 can (15 oz) petite diced tomatoes Includes juice to retain flavors.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup For added creaminess and depth.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced Provides richness and heartiness.
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables Easy addition of various veggies.
Seasonings
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce Adds umami depth.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning For herby flavor.
- Salt & pepper to taste salt and pepper Enhances flavor overall.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes until evenly browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking
- Pour in the beef broth, followed by the petite diced tomatoes (including juice).
- Stir in the condensed tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes. Mix well.
- Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Serving
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!