If you’ve been searching for a warm and satisfying homemade meal that comes together quickly, you’re going to fall in love with this Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe. It’s packed with tender chunks of beef and a vibrant mix of garden-fresh vegetables simmered in a savory broth that feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup checks every box for simplicity, taste, and wholesome goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is both simple and key to its deliciousness. Each element plays its part, from the rich beef that builds depth to the colorful vegetables that add texture, freshness, and nutrition.
- 1 lb ground beef or stew beef: Choose whichever you prefer; stew beef offers tender chunks, while ground beef cooks faster and breaks up nicely in soup.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory base that enhances every bite.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Provides crunch and a subtle herbal note to balance the soup.
- 2 cups potatoes or turnips, diced: Potatoes give creaminess and heartiness, while turnips offer a low-carb twist with a slightly peppery flavor.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Introduces acidity and richness that lifts the entire dish.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that melds everything into a cohesive, savory soup.
- 1 cup green beans: Adds color contrast and a fresh snap in every spoonful.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Offers gentle heat without overpowering.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant, aromatic punch that makes the soup irresistible.
How to Make Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning your beef until it’s nicely caramelized. This step builds rich flavor right from the start. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it off to keep the soup from feeling greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes. This softens the vegetables and lets their flavors mingle, creating a fragrant base that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Now it’s time to add your diced potatoes or turnips, canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and green beans. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning too. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking tenderizes the vegetables perfectly and infuses the broth with all those hearty flavors you’re dreaming of.
How to Serve Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten your bowl, top each serving with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like a cheesy twist. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a fun little kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This soup is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crusty bread or warm dinner rolls makes the meal even more comforting. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also balances out the warmth and heartiness of the soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your soup in mini bread bowls at your next gathering or ladle it over cooked rice or pasta for extra substance. You can even use soup as a filling for savory crepes or as a sauce base for shepherd’s pie variations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more over time.
Freezing
This Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some room at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when it freezes.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help refresh the texture if the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of stew beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef cooks faster and breaks apart in the soup, which some people prefer for texture. Stew beef gives you more tender meat chunks but takes a little longer to cook, so both options work great depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef first as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Can I substitute other vegetables in the soup?
Definitely! Corn, peas, zucchini, or even butternut squash are lovely additions or substitutions. Just add vegetables that hold up well to simmering and match the overall hearty vibe of the soup.
What can I do to make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker broth, try mashing some of the cooked potatoes or vegetables directly in the pot to add natural body. Alternatively, stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last few minutes of simmering works well too.
Is this soup gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, this Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for those with sensitivities or dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend trying this Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe enough. It’s a stunning balance of flavors and textures that comes together effortlessly, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Give it a go, and soon it might just become your go-to comfort food that you’ll want to share with friends and family again and again.
Print
Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty, nourishing soup loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth—simple to prepare, comforting, and perfect for any season or occasion.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 1 lb ground beef or stew beef
- 4 cups beef broth
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes or turnips, diced
- 1 cup green beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. If using stew beef, brown on all sides. Drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid greasy soup.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced potatoes or turnips, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, green beans, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, substitute potatoes with turnips.
- Add corn or peas to include more classic vegetable textures and sweetness.
- This soup freezes very well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
