If you are craving something cozy, nourishing, and packed full of flavor, this Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chunks of beef with a vibrant mix of wholesome vegetables, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Every spoonful is loaded with rich, savory broth and a perfect balance of textures, making it a go-to comfort food for chilly evenings or when you just want a satisfying meal that fills you up and lifts your spirits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled table holds many bowls and plates arranged carefully. There are two large red plates in front, lined with paper towels and filled with raw chunks of red meat. Behind them, from left to right, three white bowls each hold chopped white onions, bright orange carrot cubes, and light yellow potato cubes. Next to these bowls, another white bowl contains peeled round pieces of pale beige root vegetables. To the right side, a larger white bowl filled with long, pale yellow pieces of another vegetable in water is present. A small white dish holds green dried bay leaves, while another white bowl contains a fine greenish powder. Nearby, a dark glass bottle with a red label and a black jar with a yellow label are placed beside a dark gray stone mortar and pestle. All items are arranged neatly on a bright white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: the beef provides a deep, satisfying flavor and tender texture, while fresh vegetables contribute brightness and nutrients that make every bite delightful. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll gather before you start creating this classic dish.

1 lb stew beef, diced: Choose well-marbled beef for the juiciest, most tender results.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for browning the beef and bringing out rich flavors.
1 onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth once sautéed.
3 carrots, chopped: Brings both color and a subtle earthiness to the soup.
3 celery stalks, chopped: Infuses a light, aromatic crunch that balances the meatiness.
2 potatoes, diced: Give the soup heartiness and a creamy bite once cooked.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness, brightening up the broth.
6 cups beef broth: The flavorful base that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
1 teaspoon thyme: Provides an earthy, herbal note that complements beef perfectly.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance every element’s natural taste.
Optional: green beans, peas: For added texture and vibrant pops of green.

How to Make Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced stew beef, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Let the pieces brown evenly on all sides without stirring too frequently—this creates deep caramelized flavors that will form the delicious backbone of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Once your beef has a beautiful golden crust, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Stir these together and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and reveals layers of savory depth.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth into the pot. Sprinkle in thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the broth evenly coats all ingredients. This is when all those flavors begin mingling and developing into something truly special.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 to 60 minutes. Patience here is key—the low, steady heat helps tenderize the beef thoroughly and lets the veggies absorb all those rich flavors, resulting in a comforting and hearty bowl of goodness.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Before dishing out, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt or pepper if needed. This final step ensures each spoonful bursts with balanced flavor. Serve it warm and watch as everyone digs into this fulfilling classic with pure delight.

How to Serve Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with rich, brown stew with visible chunks of orange carrots, yellow potatoes, and brown meat pieces. A spoon lifts a scoop of the stew, showing the thick texture and all the ingredients mixed together. The bowl rests on a surface with a white marbled texture and the whole scene looks warm and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few grinds of black pepper can elevate your soup visually and bring out fresh herbal highlights. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil can also add a subtle richness that makes the experience feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping, turning it into a full-bodied meal. A crisp green salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the soup’s richness with a burst of cool crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, serve the soup in bread bowls or individual ceramic mugs for a rustic presentation that’s fun and inviting. You can also top it with a spoonful of sour cream or shredded cheese, depending on your mood, to give it an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe is fantastic as leftovers. Simply transfer any remaining soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld more deeply overnight, making each reheated portion taste even better.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the soup in well-sealed containers or freezer bags. This hearty dish freezes beautifully and keeps for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container to accommodate expansion during freezing.

Reheating

Spoon your refrigerated or thawed soup into a pot and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling to maintain the tenderness of the beef.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of stew beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute stew beef with boneless chuck roast or even lamb for a slightly different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust cooking time to ensure tenderness.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can create a vegetarian version by skipping the beef and using vegetable broth instead. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for protein and texture.

What can I add to make this soup even heartier?

Great additions include barley, pasta, or beans. Each brings extra texture and makes the soup more filling, perfect for colder days or bigger appetites.

How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming mushy?

Adding potatoes last and monitoring simmer time helps keep vegetables tender but not overcooked. Also, avoid boiling vigorously once the potatoes are in to maintain good texture.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender, flavorful soup without much fuss.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, combining simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly night or need a nutritious, satisfying meal, this recipe is a winner every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!