Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This comforting classic is packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth that’s both nourishing and delicious.

I first learned to make this soup from my grandmother, who always had a pot simmering on the stove when we visited her farmhouse. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or make-ahead lunches. Let me show you why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Beef Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this timeless recipe. Vegetable Beef Soup has all the hallmarks of comfort food: it's hearty, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying.

First and foremost, it’s a complete meal in one pot. Packed with protein-rich beef, wholesome vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup offers balanced nutrition in every bite. No need for elaborate sides – just pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re good to go!

Another reason to adore this soup? It’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an excellent way to use up those odds and ends in the fridge.

Best of all, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious. It freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy easy, stress-free meals later in the week

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Vegetable Beef Soup lies in its hearty, nourishing ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe so special.

Beef: For the best results, choose stew beef or a well-marbled cut like chuck roast. These cuts become melt-in-your-mouth tender after simmering in the soup. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut stew meat for convenience.

Vegetables: Classic choices like carrots, celery, and potatoes form the foundation of this soup. Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on your preferences – green beans, corn, or even zucchini work wonderfully here.

Broth: A combination of beef broth and tomato sauce creates a rich, savory base. For extra depth, you can add a splash of red wine or a spoonful of tomato paste.

Seasonings: A mix of garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce elevates the flavor of the broth. Don’t forget a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

Optional Equipment: A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for this recipe, as it ensures even cooking and helps lock in flavors.

How to Make This Vegetable Beef Soup

Creating this delicious Vegetable Beef Soup is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps for a pot of soup that’ll rival any restaurant!

1. Brown the Beef: Start by heating a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the stew beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Sear the meat on all sides until it develops a golden crust. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Broth: Return the beef to the pot, along with beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings like thyme and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
4. Add Potatoes and Simmer: After about 30 minutes, add cubed potatoes and any quick-cooking vegetables like green beans or peas. Continue simmering until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaves, taste the broth, and adjust the seasonings with salt, pepper, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

This entire process takes about 90 minutes, but most of the time is hands-off. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing, and the result is well worth the wait!

Storage Options

One of the best things about Vegetable Beef Soup is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store your leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it taste even better the next day.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving room for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Here are some fun variations:

1. Swap the Protein: Replace the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a different twist.
2. Add Grains: Stir in cooked barley, quinoa, or rice for an extra hearty soup.
3. Go Low-Carb: Skip the potatoes and substitute with diced turnips or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
4. Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for an unexpected depth of flavor.
5. Make it Spicy: Toss in a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – the possibilities are endless!

This Vegetable Beef Soup recipe is a true classic, perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. With its rich, hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the recipe or add your own twist, I hope you enjoy every comforting bite!

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