Ground beef vegetable soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and table. Packed with tender vegetables and seasoned ground beef, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly nourishing. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or for meal prepping during busy weeks. The aroma of spices and slow-simmered goodness will fill your home, making it a dish everyone looks forward to.
Why We Love This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
This ground beef vegetable soup has a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, making it an excellent choice for busy nights. The combination of ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a hearty and filling experience, while the herbs and seasonings enhance the overall taste. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to your preferences. You can easily add or substitute vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any season. The ease of preparation also makes this recipe a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Ingredients about Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Directions
To begin, gather all your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of goodness. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and no longer pink. As you’re cooking, break up the meat with a spoon to ensure it cooks evenly. After you achieve that beautiful brown color, carefully remove any excess fat from the pot.
Next, toss in a chopped medium onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. You’ll appreciate the aromatic combination of beef, onion, and garlic filling your kitchen.
Now it’s time to introduce your vegetables! Add in three sliced medium carrots, two diced medium potatoes, and one cup of chopped celery. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to mingle with the flavorful beef mixture. This part is essential as it builds a solid base for your soup.
After the veggies are well incorporated, pour in 4 cups of beef broth, raising the temperature to high until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become tender, and the flavors will develop beautifully.
Once you notice the vegetables softening, stir in a can of diced tomatoes, along with spices to taste: 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Mix them well into the pot. Now, it’s time to add some additional color and nutrition with 1 cup of chopped green beans and 1 cup of corn kernels. Stir everything again to incorporate all the delicious ingredients.
Keep the pot uncovered and allow it to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. This ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Take a moment to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a bit more salt or pepper, now’s your chance to add it for that perfect flavor balance.
Once everything is thoroughly cooked and the aroma is irresistible, remove the pot from the heat. Your ground beef vegetable soup is now ready to be served. You can garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor or enjoy it alongside your favorite bread.
How to Serve Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Serving your ground beef vegetable soup can elevate the dining experience. Start by ladling the hot soup into bowls, ensuring everyone gets a healthy mix of beef and veggies. You might consider garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese to enhance the presentation and flavor.
For a complete meal, serve the soup with a side of hearty bread—whether it’s crusty baguette slices, warm dinner rolls, or buttered toast, it will complement the soup wonderfully. A fresh garden salad makes a perfect pairing as well, adding a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of the soup. If you want to take it up a notch, consider preparing a side of homemade cornbread for a comforting touch that pairs beautifully with the soup’s richness.
Expert Tips: Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
To ensure your ground beef vegetable soup turns out perfect every time, try following these expert tips. First, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables will provide a vibrant flavor and texture. Don’t rush the browning of the beef; this step enhances the taste significantly.
Consider customizing your soup based on what you have on hand. You can easily substitute different vegetables or adjust the seasonings to fit your taste preferences. Additional spices like thyme or a dash of hot sauce can add extra depth if you enjoy more robust flavors.
Lastly, for an extra hearty soup, you might opt to add a handful of pasta or rice into the mix during the simmering stage. Just ensure to adjust the liquid levels accordingly.
How to Store Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Storing your ground beef vegetable soup is straightforward. If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any unwanted bacteria growth.
For short-term storage in the fridge, the soup will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. When properly stored, your ground beef vegetable soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container to allow for expansion while freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop for the best quality.
Variation of Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
The beauty of ground beef vegetable soup lies in its versatility. Once you master the base recipe, feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients. For instance, you might consider adding leafy greens such as spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
If you prefer a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot. You can also switch up the proteins by using turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter version. Another delicious twist involves incorporating beans for extra fiber and protein. Black beans or kidney beans can add texture and flavor.
For a different flavor profile, switch out the beef broth for vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version of the soup. You can also experiment with adding different herbs and spices based on your preferences. From Italian herbs to smoky paprika, each variation brings something unique to the table.
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef in vegetable soup?
If you’re looking to swap out ground beef in your vegetable soup, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lean protein alternative. You can even experiment with plant-based options like lentils, tempeh, or mushroom for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make my ground beef vegetable soup spicier?
To increase the spice level in your ground beef vegetable soup, you can add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce to the pot while cooking. Spice preferences vary, so add gradually and taste as you go!
Can I make ground beef vegetable soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. After browning the beef and sautéing the onion and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use frozen vegetables in my ground beef vegetable soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenient addition to your soup. Just add them in towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they don’t become overcooked and mushy.
How do I thicken my ground beef vegetable soup?
If you’d like to thicken your soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Another method is to mash some of the potatoes or vegetables in the pot for a heartier texture.
Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use fresh, high-quality beef for best flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Provides flavor and aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the soup's flavor.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced Makes the soup hearty.
- 1 cup celery, chopped Adds crunch and flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes Adds acidity and flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Provides aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Enhances the taste of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika Adds a hint of smoky flavor.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped For color and additional nutrients.
- 1 cup corn kernels Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Remove excess fat as needed.
- Stir in a chopped medium onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add 3 sliced medium carrots, 2 diced medium potatoes, and 1 cup of chopped celery. Stir well.
Cooking
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
- Add 1 cup of chopped green beans and 1 cup of corn kernels. Stir well.
- Keep the pot uncovered and simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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