There’s just something about a warm bowl of beef & vegetable soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, isn’t there? The rich, hearty flavors mingling together create a comforting dish that feels like home. I can still remember the first time I made this soup; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that would warm both my body and soul. As the beef browned and the vegetables softened, my kitchen filled with the most mouthwatering aromas. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like it!
This beef & vegetable soup is not just about filling your belly; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and flavors that dance together beautifully. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a fragrant broth, every spoonful is a delight. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for some leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is a winner. I promise, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty beef & vegetable soup. I always find that having everything prepped and ready to go makes cooking so much smoother. So, let’s get started!
- 1 lb beef stew meat – Look for good quality, well-marbled beef for the best flavor.
- 4 cups beef broth – Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine too!
- 2 cups carrots, chopped – Fresh and vibrant, they add a lovely sweetness.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced – I like using Yukon Gold for their creaminess, but any kind will do.
- 1 cup celery, chopped – Adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed – Fresh or frozen, they’re a great addition.
- 1 onion, chopped – A must for that aromatic base!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because who doesn’t love garlic?
- 1 teaspoon thyme – A classic herb that brings warmth to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary – This adds such a lovely earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season as you go for the best results!
Gather all these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
How to Prepare Beef & Vegetable Soup
Making this beef & vegetable soup is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through every step! It’s all about layering those flavors and letting them come together in perfect harmony. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by browning the beef. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the beef stew meat. Cook until it’s nicely browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing flavor, so don’t rush it!
- Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally, about 3–4 minutes. Oh, the smell of garlic and onion is heavenly!
- Now it’s time for the veggies! Stir in the chopped carrots, diced potatoes, chopped celery, and trimmed green beans. Let them cook together for a couple of minutes, just to get everything mingling. You’ll see those colors pop!
- Pour in the beef broth, and don’t forget to add the thyme and rosemary. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 hour. This is when all those wonderful flavors will blend together beautifully!
- After an hour, check the soup. The beef should be tender, and the veggies perfectly cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your palate. Remember, it’s all about making it just right for you!
- Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You might want to have some crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me, it’s the perfect companion!
And there you have it! A warm, hearty beef & vegetable soup that’s ready to bring comfort to your table. Enjoy every spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal simmering on the stove in no time!
- Hearty Flavor: The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying taste that warms you from the inside out.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins, this soup is a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the vibrant veggies and tender beef, making it a hit for the whole family.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs, so it can be tailored to whatever you have on hand!
- Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches!
Trust me, once you try this beef & vegetable soup, you’ll be coming back to it time and again! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Tips for Success
To make your beef & vegetable soup the best it can be, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I always keep in mind when I whip up this comforting dish. These little tricks will help you elevate the flavors and ensure a delightful experience every time you make it!
- Choose Quality Beef: Look for well-marbled beef stew meat. The marbling adds flavor and tenderness, which is essential for a rich soup.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best taste. They not only add more flavor but also vibrant colors that make the soup visually appealing!
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Make sure to take your time browning the beef. This step creates a deep, savory flavor that makes all the difference in your soup!
- Layer Your Flavors: I like to season gradually. Add a bit of salt and pepper while cooking, then adjust at the end. This way, you’ll get the seasoning just right!
- Experiment with Herbs: If you have other herbs on hand, feel free to experiment! Parsley, bay leaves, or even a pinch of oregano can add a lovely twist.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Letting the soup simmer gently allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s worth the wait—trust me!
- Cool and Store Properly: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days!
With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating a beef & vegetable soup that’s not just good, but truly spectacular! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the things I love most about this beef & vegetable soup is how versatile it is! You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in any of your favorite vegetables! Peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes can add a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’ll give your soup a delightful kick!
- Herb Swap: Instead of thyme and rosemary, try using Italian seasoning or fresh basil for a different herbal note. Fresh herbs added at the end can brighten up the flavors beautifully!
- Beans for Protein: Toss in a can of kidney beans or black beans to amp up the protein and fiber. It’s a great way to make the soup heartier!
- Different Broth: For a lighter flavor, use chicken broth instead of beef broth. It’ll give the soup a different twist while still being delicious!
- Make It a Stew: If you want a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth or add a cornstarch slurry (mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water) to thicken it up!
- Herb Garnish: Top your soup with freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving. It adds a lovely color and a fresh taste!
These variations can turn a classic beef & vegetable soup into something uniquely yours! Don’t be afraid to experiment—after all, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious beef & vegetable soup, and now you’ve got some leftovers. Lucky you! This soup not only tastes fantastic the first time around, but it also gets even better as the flavors deepen. Here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy that comforting goodness later!
First things first, let your soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. This is really important because putting hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside, and we don’t want that! Once it’s cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they don’t retain odors and are super easy to clean.
In the fridge, your beef & vegetable soup will stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it around longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container since the soup will expand as it freezes. You can also portion it out into smaller containers for quick reheating—perfect for busy weeknights!
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating it is a breeze. I recommend warming it on the stovetop over medium heat. Just pour the soup into a pot and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the flavor and texture of the veggies and beef. If the soup seems a little thick after being in the fridge or freezer, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just make sure to transfer the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. Just be careful not to overheat it, as microwave heating can sometimes lead to uneven temperatures!
And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating tips to keep your beef & vegetable soup tasting just as delicious as the first time you made it. Enjoy every last drop!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This beef & vegetable soup not only warms your soul but also brings along some great nutrients. Here’s a typical breakdown of what you can expect in each serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
This hearty soup is not just delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Perfect for a wholesome meal any day of the week!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this delicious beef & vegetable soup? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with answers to help you out. Let’s dive in!
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken, just swap out the beef stew meat for diced chicken breast or thighs. You’ll still get a hearty soup, but with a lighter flavor.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries at all! You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth instead. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious!
How long can I store leftovers?
Your beef & vegetable soup will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months!
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! This soup is super versatile. Feel free to toss in veggies like peas, corn, or even bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for any new additions.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, mash a few of the potatoes to thicken it naturally!
What’s the best way to serve this soup?
I love serving this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy it however you like!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Just brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’ll be just as delicious!
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is perfectly cooked when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. If it’s still tough, just let it simmer for a bit longer!
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask! I’m here to help you create the best beef & vegetable soup experience possible. Happy cooking!
Print
Beef & Vegetable Soup: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Comforting Dish
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty beef and vegetable soup packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans.
- Pour in beef broth, add thyme and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for better taste.
- Adjust seasoning as per your preference.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Beef & Vegetable Soup