Slow Cooker Steak Soup

This hearty Slow Cooker Steak Soup is the perfect comfort food to enjoy on a chilly evening. Packed with tender chunks of beef, savory vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate one-pot meal that requires little prep but delivers big on taste. Whether you choose to add peas and corn for extra texture or keep it simple, this soup is a satisfying, no-fuss dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Steak Soup! First and foremost, it’s a hands-off recipe that lets the slow cooker do all the work, giving you more time to relax while it fills your home with mouth-watering aromas. The beef becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables soak up the rich broth, making each spoonful deliciously comforting. It’s also versatile, so you can tailor it to your taste preferences, adding extra veggies or seasonings as desired. Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly meal that feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat or steak (cubed)

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 cups water

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 2 large carrots, sliced

• 1 cup celery, chopped

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)

• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Steak:

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Brown the cubed beef stew meat or steak until all sides are seared (about 3-4 minutes). This step is optional but enhances the flavor. Once browned, transfer the meat to the slow cooker.

Add the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.

Prepare the Broth:

Pour in the beef broth and water. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Worcestershire sauce (if using), thyme, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook:

Stir everything to combine. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Add Optional Ingredients:

About 30 minutes before serving, you can add frozen peas and corn if you like, giving them time to cook through.

Finish and Serve:

Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)

• Total Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)

• Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

This Slow Cooker Steak Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. To store, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, warm the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just let it cool, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, try mashing some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher once it’s done cooking. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the broth.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like chuck roast or round steak. Just make sure to cut it into cubes. The slow cooking process will tenderize any cut you choose.

Can I skip browning the meat?

Browning the meat adds extra flavor, but if you’re in a rush, you can skip this step and just add the raw meat directly to the slow cooker.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as the beef broth you use is gluten-free. Check the label to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are included.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or green beans to customize the soup to your liking.

Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor to the soup, but it’s optional. If you prefer, you can leave it out or substitute with soy sauce for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the other ingredients.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Use the sauté function to brown the meat, then add all the ingredients. Cook on the soup setting for about 30 minutes or high pressure for 25 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.

Can I use fresh thyme and basil instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh thyme and basil. For every teaspoon of dried herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the beef for mushrooms or another meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Steak Soup is the perfect meal for busy days when you want a hearty, comforting dish with minimal effort. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to your taste. Whether served as a simple weeknight dinner or part of a weekend gathering, this soup will warm you up and leave everyone coming back for seconds.