Vegetable Beef Soup - A Comforting Classic for Every Season
Prep time: 1h 30mins | 6 Servings
When you crave something warm, flavorful, and nourishing, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of vegetable beef soup. This timeless dish brings together tender beef, garden-fresh vegetables, and rich broth to create a meal that’s both wholesome and deeply satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a breezy spring day, this hearty soup makes for a perfect family dinner.
What Is Vegetable Beef Soup?
Vegetable beef soup is a classic comfort food featuring chunks of beef simmered with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, celery, peas, and tomatoes in a flavorful broth. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main meal and versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies or spices you have on hand.
Traditionally, tougher cuts of beef like chuck roast or stew meat are used. When cooked low and slow, these cuts become incredibly tender, giving the soup its signature richness and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
For the base:
1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-size cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables:
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Broth & seasonings:
6 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
1 bay leaf
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Directions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. This step helps build flavor don’t skip it!
2. Add Aromatics
Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Build the Soup Base
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir well and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer Slowly
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef becomes tender.
5. Add the Vegetables
Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Continue simmering for another 20 minutes, then add green beans, corn, and peas. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until all vegetables are soft but not mushy.
6. Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Variations to Try
Low-carb version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Mediterranean flair: Stir in oregano, basil, and a splash of lemon juice.
Slow cooker method: Combine all ingredients in a crockpot and cook on low for 7–8 hours.
Instant Pot version: Pressure cook for 25 minutes, then quick release.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup
Choose the right beef: Use well-marbled cuts like chuck for tenderness and flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes fork-tender and the flavors develop fully.
Use homemade broth if possible: It adds depth that store-bought versions can’t match.
Add greens for color: Spinach or kale stirred in at the end boosts nutrition and vibrancy.
Freeze leftovers in portions: This soup reheats beautifully for quick, healthy meals.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 bowl)
- Calories320 kcal
- Protein25 g
- Carbohydrates28 g
- Fat10 g
- Saturated Fat3 g
- Cholesterol55 mg
- Sodium780 mg
- Fiber5 g
- Sugar6 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes! Ground beef makes a faster version of vegetable beef soup. Simply brown it first, drain any excess fat, then proceed with the recipe.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze vegetable beef soup?
Absolutely. Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What goes well with vegetable beef soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Vegetable beef soup isn’t just a meal it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether you make it for Sunday dinner or meal prep for the week, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth makes it the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
So next time you’re looking for something hearty yet wholesome, skip the takeout grab your pot and make this easy vegetable beef soup recipe at home.
