When the temperatures drop outside, nothing warms you up quite like a hearty bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup. This comforting dish is packed with flavor, nutrients, and all the goodness that comes from a homemade meal. With tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why We Love This Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
There’s something undeniably special about Vegetable Beef Soup. It combines all the elements of a well-rounded meal into one pot, making it both convenient and satisfying. The rich flavors blend together beautifully, offering a delightful experience with each spoonful. It’s a fantastic way to warm yourself up on a chilly day, and the combination of ingredients ensures that every bite is filled with various textures and tastes. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy families. You can also customize it to include whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it both versatile and resourceful.
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 (any variety, such as russet)
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup Directions
Creating your Vegetable Beef Soup is as easy as following these simple steps.
- Start by browning the beef. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place your ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want the beef to brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add aromatics. Once the beef has browned, incorporate the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot. Continue to cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want the onion to become translucent and soft, which helps to build the flavor of your soup.
- Season it up. After the onions are cooked, add salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the seasonings blend thoroughly with the beef and onions.
- Pour in your liquids. Now it’s time to add depth to the soup. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (including the juice), and condensed tomato soup. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Incorporate the vegetables. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes. Stir again to combine all the ingredients, making sure the potatoes are submerged in the broth.
- Bring to a boil. Increase the heat until the soup reaches a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer for 30 minutes. This is where all the flavors meld together, and the potatoes become tender.
- Adjust seasoning. After the time is up, take a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even some spices to suit your preferences.
- Serve warm. Your Vegetable Beef Soup is now ready to be enjoyed. Ladle it into bowls and serve it warm.
How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup
Serving Vegetable Beef Soup is simple and allows for a bit of creativity. Start by ladling the soup into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a hearty amount of beef and vegetables. You can offer crusty bread or warm cornbread on the side to make the meal even more filling. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider providing hot sauce as a condiment. If you have leftover soup, you can save it for lunch the next day. Vegetable Beef Soup is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with some grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Expert Tips: Vegetable Beef Soup
To ensure your Vegetable Beef Soup turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use quality ingredients. The flavor of your soup is only as good as the ingredients you use. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth to enhance the taste.
- Customize your veggies. Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for fresh ones you have at home. Carrots, green beans, or peas are excellent additions. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
- Don’t rush it. Allowing the soup to simmer for the specified time is crucial for building flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
- Make it ahead. Vegetable Beef Soup tastes even better the next day! Consider making a big pot over the weekend and enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
- Store leftovers properly. If you plan to store your soup, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
How to Store Vegetable Beef Soup
Storing your Vegetable Beef Soup is easy and ensures you can enjoy it for days to come. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variation of Vegetable Beef Soup
There are countless ways to adapt Vegetable Beef Soup to suit your tastes or what you have available. Here are some delightful variations:
- Add some beans. Incorporate canned beans like kidney, black, or garbanzo for extra protein and fiber.
- Spicy spin. For a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This will bring a nice heat to the soup.
- Herb boost. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can be added in place of or alongside Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Different meats. While ground beef is classic, you can experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Thicker soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before serving or stir in some instant mashed potato flakes.
FAQ
What can I serve with Vegetable Beef Soup?
You can pair Vegetable Beef Soup with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the soup perfectly.
How long does Vegetable Beef Soup last?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, Vegetable Beef Soup can last for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used, just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they become tender.
Is it possible to make Vegetable Beef Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can easily prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Can I omit the beef and make it vegetarian?
Yes! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the beef and using vegetable broth instead. It will still be hearty and flavorful.
Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use high-quality beef for better flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- to taste Salt & pepper
- 3.5 cups beef broth Opt for high-quality broth for best flavor.
- 1 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes Include juice for added flavor.
- 1 10.5 oz can condensed tomato soup
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning Feel free to use fresh herbs.
- 1 16 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables Or substitute with fresh vegetables.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced Any variety works, such as russet.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to blend with the beef and onion.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, and condensed tomato soup. Add Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning.
- Stir to combine all components thoroughly.
- Incorporate the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth.
- Increase heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes until flavors meld and potatoes are tender.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, optionally with crusty bread or cornbread.
- Enhance with chopped fresh herbs or hot sauce as desired.
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