introduction

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This soup combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth, making it a fulfilling meal in one bowl. It’s a great way to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand while enjoying the robust flavors of seasoned meat and aromatic herbs.

why make this recipe

This recipe for Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. It’s a wonderful way to feed your family and friends while providing them with a nutritious meal. The rich flavors and hearty goodness will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the fridge and even gets better the next day!

how to make Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Ingredients:

1¾ pounds beef stew meat (well-marbled pieces cut into bite-size chunks)
3 tablespoons olive oil (divided, used for browning beef and sautéing vegetables)
Salt (to season beef and soup throughout cooking)
Freshly ground black pepper (added gradually for balanced seasoning)
2 cups chopped yellow onion (about 1 large onion, diced evenly)
1½ cups peeled and chopped carrots (cut into uniform pieces for even cooking)
1¼ cups chopped celery (adds savory depth and texture)
1¾ tablespoons minced garlic (fresh garlic preferred for best flavor)
10 cups low-sodium beef broth or chicken broth (forms the soup base)
2 cans (14 ounces each) diced tomatoes (with juices for added acidity)
1¾ teaspoons dried basil (adds mild herbal flavor)
1¼ teaspoons dried oregano (brings earthy warmth)
¾ teaspoon dried thyme (adds subtle savory notes)
1¼ pounds red or yellow potatoes (cut into ¾-inch cubes for tenderness)
1¾ cups chopped green beans (trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces)
1¾ cups frozen corn (adds sweetness and color)
1¼ cups frozen peas (for texture and freshness)
½ cup chopped fresh parsley (stirred in at the end for brightness)

Directions:

Heat part of the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
Pat the beef dry, season with salt and pepper, then brown half of the beef until well-seared before transferring to a plate.
Add more oil and repeat the browning process with the remaining beef, then set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the pot and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until slightly softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly.
Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, browned beef, dried herbs, and additional salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer gently while stirring occasionally.
Add the potatoes to the pot and continue simmering until they begin to soften.
Stir in the green beans and cook until the vegetables and beef are tender.
Add the corn and peas and simmer just until heated through.
Remove from heat, stir in the fresh parsley, and serve warm.

how to serve Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Serve the Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs well with some crusty bread or a simple green salad. This soup is a great main dish that can satisfy everyone at your table.

how to store Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

To store the soup, let it cool down completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in smaller portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the containers with the date.

tips to make Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of red wine to the broth.
Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have available or your family’s preferences.
To thicken the soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.

variation

You can create a lighter version of this soup by using lean beef or substituting with ground turkey or chicken. To make it vegetarian, simply replace the meat with more vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh. Just add them towards the end of cooking so they don’t overcook.

How can I make this soup spicier?
If you prefer a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.

Is it possible to make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.