Beef Vegetable Soup

There’s something about a warm bowl of Beef Vegetable Soup that feels like a hug on a cold day. The rich, savory beef broth mingles with hearty vegetables in a symphony of comforting flavors that just make you feel at home. It’s the kind of dish that you can curl up with and enjoy after a long day, and it always seems to hit the spot. Plus, the best part? It’s so easy to make, and it only gets better the longer it sits! So grab a spoon, get cozy, and trust me—you’re going to love every bite of this soul-warming soup.

Why You’ll Love Beef Vegetable Soup

This soup is more than just a simple meal; it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Hearty and Satisfying: With chunks of tender beef and a medley of fresh veggies, this soup is filling enough to stand on its own. It’s perfect for when you need something comforting that’ll keep you satisfied all day long.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll spend more time enjoying your meal than scrubbing dishes!
• Customizable: If you love a particular vegetable, throw it in! Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne. You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your tastes.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal on a busy night. It’s perfect for meal prepping or for those days when you don’t feel like cooking.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean beef, this soup is a great way to sneak in some extra servings of veggies while enjoying a rich, flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Making this Beef Vegetable Soup is a breeze, and it’s all about those cozy, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beef Chuck or Stew Meat: Tender and flavorful beef is the star of the show. It becomes perfectly soft and juicy as it simmers in the broth.
• Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, carrots add both flavor and color to the soup.
• Celery: Adds a nice crunch and subtle earthy flavor that rounds out the vegetable medley.
• Potatoes: Creamy and hearty, potatoes make the soup extra filling and satisfying.
• Onion: Adds a savory base to the soup, enhancing all the other flavors.
• Garlic: A must for that warm, aromatic flavor that gives the soup its depth.
• Tomatoes (diced or crushed): The tomatoes create a slightly tangy base that balances the richness of the beef.
• Beef Broth: This is the heart of the soup’s flavor. It’s rich, savory, and comforting.
• Bay Leaves: For that herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor.
• Thyme and Rosemary: Classic herbs that pair perfectly with beef and add a wonderful aroma as they cook.
• Salt and Pepper: To season everything to perfection.
• Frozen Peas (optional): For a pop of color and sweetness, and a great way to add some extra vegetables to the mix.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get this soup simmering? Let’s go through the simple steps to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

Brown the Beef

Start by heating a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef in batches and brown it on all sides until it’s deeply caramelized. This step adds so much flavor to the soup, so don’t rush it! Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant. This will create a savory base that’ll infuse the soup with flavor.

Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. The spices and herbs will begin to release their aroma, making your kitchen smell amazing.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced or crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot—they’re packed with flavor! Bring everything to a simmer.

Simmer the Soup

Return the beef to the pot and add the potatoes. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the savory smells filling your kitchen.

Add Frozen Peas

Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are ready, stir in the frozen peas (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes, just until they’re heated through.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaves, and you’re ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 300
Total Fat: 10g
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 hours
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

How to Serve Beef Vegetable Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, try these serving ideas:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth. Garlic bread is a particularly irresistible choice.
• Green Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad to add some freshness and balance out the richness of the soup.
• Cheese on Top: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra savory touch.
• Herb Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme to add a little extra color and freshness.

Additional Tips

• Use Leftover Beef: If you have leftover roast beef or steak, you can easily toss it into the soup instead of stewing fresh beef.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off version of this soup.
• Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in extra vegetables like zucchini, corn, or green beans to make the soup even heartier.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
A2: Absolutely! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q3: What can I serve with this soup?
A3: Try pairing it with crusty bread, a light green salad, or a cheese plate for a full meal experience.

Q4: Can I use a different type of meat?
A4: Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave.

Q6: Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
A6: Yes, if you prefer a lighter version of the soup or need to make it vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute.

Q7: How do I thicken the soup?
A7: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.

Q8: Can I add pasta to this soup?
A8: Yes! You can add small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini. Just cook the pasta separately and stir it in toward the end so it doesn’t get too soggy.

Q9: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
A9: Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to thin it out.

Q10: Can I make this soup spicy?
A10: Yes! You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Beef Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a big, satisfying bowl of this flavorful soup today!

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