In my kitchen, this Vegetable Beef Soup is a beloved staple that brings warmth and comfort to chilly evenings. It’s the kind of dish that fills the house with a rich, savory aroma, making it impossible to resist. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this hearty soup combines tender beef with a bounty of vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are so many great reasons to whip up a pot of this Vegetable Beef Soup! It’s not only incredibly satisfying, but it’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies from your fridge. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making my mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a breeze. We start by cooking a flavorful beef base, then add a variety of colorful vegetables that contribute both taste and nutrition. Finally, we simmer everything together to create a soup that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to get started!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Items:
- 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
- 2 russet potatoes, chopped
- 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions)
- 1 bag frozen peas
- 1 bag frozen green beans
- 1 bag frozen corn
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
- 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
- 1 can filled with water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you enjoy or what’s in your pantry!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by seasoning the roast with salt and pepper. Place it into your slow cooker and add half a can of beef broth. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until it’s tender enough to shred with two forks.
- In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped carrots and the frozen seasoning mix until they’re tender and fragrant.
- Once ready, add the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, the remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and the can of water to the pot.
- Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover your pot and simmer the soup for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Feel free to add a splash of water if it’s looking too thick.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This soup is fantastic on its own or served with crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a green salad or perhaps a side of garlic bread. A warm slice of cornbread also makes an excellent accompaniment!
How to Store & Freeze
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, it freezes beautifully! Just ensure you leave some space in the container for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove adding a bit of water if needed.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- To save time, prep your vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick throw-together meal during the week.
- Using a slow cooker works wonders for this recipe just set it in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme during the simmering phase.
- If you have extra veggies, toss them in! This soup is all about what you love and have available.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment with this soup! Swap in sweet potatoes instead of russets for a sweeter taste, or toss in some greens like spinach or kale right before serving for an added boost of nutrition. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 300 | 25g | 40g | 10g | 6g | 5g |
Whether it’s a cold winter day or a casual family gathering, this Vegetable Beef Soup is sure to satisfy and warm hearts. Get cooking and enjoy the love in every spoonful!