As the first whiffs of autumn dance through the air, my mind drifts to the heartwarming taste of Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. This easy soup recipe not only fills bowls but warms souls, with every spoonful delivering tender beef, vibrant veggies, and a comforting tomato broth. The beauty of this homemade dish lies not just in its rich flavors but also in the generous batch it yields—perfect for cozy evenings in or for stashing away in the freezer for those busy weekdays when cooking feels like a chore. The delicious comfort of this soup makes it a beloved family favorite and an effortless way to nourish loved ones. So, why settle for fast food when you can whip up a classic that brings everyone together? Are you ready to rediscover the joy of homemade soup?

Why is Homemade Soup So Special?

Simplicity in every bowl: This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just easy to make, it’s a recipe that anyone can master.

Heartwarming flavors: With tender beef, fresh veggies, and a savory tomato broth, each spoonful is a taste of nostalgia that will transport you back to comforting family meals.

Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and store it for those busy nights when you crave something soul-soothing without the hassle.

Versatile ingredient options: Feel free to mix in your choice of seasonal vegetables or even try ground beef for a quicker meal! Check out these ideas for other hearty options, like Beef Barley Soup or Cabbage Soup.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this soup will delight everyone at the table. Rediscover the joy of homemade soup, and say goodbye to fast food!

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Pot Roast – Provides the main protein and rich flavor in the soup. Use a beef roast of similar cut for substitution.
Beef Broth – Serves as the soup base with rich beef flavor; can be homemade or low-sodium canned.
Tomato Soup – Adds acidity and depth; can be replaced with crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste.
Water – Adjusts the consistency; use more broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to personal taste.

For the Vegetables

Russet Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture; substitute with red or Yukon gold potatoes for different flavors.
Frozen Seasoning Blend – Offers a mix of vegetables primarily onions and peppers for depth of flavor; fresh onions can be used instead, although may require more prep.
Frozen Peas – Contributes sweetness and color to the soup; fresh peas can be substituted if available.
Frozen Green Beans – Gives a crunchy texture; fresh green beans may also be used, chopped.
Frozen Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; substitutable with fresh corn if in season.
Carrots – Provides sweetness and color; fresh or frozen work well.

These wholesome ingredients come together to create a delightful Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup that reminds us all of the comfort of home-cooked meals. So gather your ingredients and let the magic begin!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare Roast
Begin by seasoning the pot roast generously with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker and add half a can of beef broth, making sure the meat is partially submerged. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours or until the beef is tender enough to shred easily. This slow cooking method will infuse the roast with rich flavor for your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add in the carrots along with the frozen seasoning blend, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavors that will complement the heartiness of the beef in your soup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the vegetables are sautéed, remove the cooked pot roast from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces. In the large pot, add the shredded beef, diced russet potatoes, and frozen peas, green beans, and corn. Then, pour in the remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and an additional cup of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Cook
Bring the soup mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally until all the vegetables are cooked through and tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more broth or water as needed.

Step 5: Season and Serve
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Your family will love this comforting Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, perfect for sharing on cozy evenings!

How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain flavor and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in a safe dish, adding a touch of water if the soup is thick.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this comforting soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will remind you of home-cooked goodness.

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this comforting soup truly your own with these delightful variations!

Ground Beef: Swap the pot roast for ground beef for a quicker, lighter option. Just brown the beef before adding it to the pot.
Lentil Delight: For a vegetarian twist, substitute lentils for meat. Lentils add protein and stay hearty while soaking up the soup’s flavors.
Extra Greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant boost of nutrition and color.
Seasonal Veggies: Mix in seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or zucchini to switch up the flavors and textures throughout the year.
Spice It Up: If you love a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a vibrant heat that complements the richness of the soup.
Creamy Goodness: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end for a luxuriously creamy tomato broth that feels extra indulgent.
Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor with fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Add a few sprigs during cooking and remove before serving for fresh aroma without the hassle.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make double the batch and store half in the freezer. It tastes even better after flavors meld overnight, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Consider pairing it with Zucchini Soup Comforting for an inviting meal spread.

Embrace these variations to savor the warmth and love in every bowl of your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup!

Make Ahead Options

This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pot roast by seasoning and cooking it in advance, allowing you to shred and refrigerate the beef for up to 3 days. Additionally, chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the shredded beef, and combine the remaining ingredients as the recipe instructs. This method not only saves you valuable time on busy weeknights but also ensures that your soup is just as delicious as when made fresh! Enjoy the comforting flavors without the fuss!

What to Serve with Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Nothing complements a warm bowl of hearty soup quite like a thoughtfully chosen side or accompaniment that enhances the experience.

Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked, crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
Mixed Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
Garlic Toast: Crunchy, buttery garlic toast offers a delicious, savory bite that pairs wonderfully with the comforting flavors of the soup.
Cheesy Biscuits: Warm, cheesy biscuits create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making your soup experience even more satisfying.
Pickles or Relish: A zesty dill pickle or tangy relish adds a crisp, tangy twist, cutting through the heartiness of the soup for a perfect balance.
Wine Pairing: A glass of light red wine, like Pinot Noir, complements the beefy depth without overpowering the palate, enhancing your cozy dinner.

Embrace the comforting joy of this homemade soup and let these delightful pairings create a memorable meal that warms both your heart and your home.

Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled pot roast for tender, flavorful beef. Avoid lean cuts as they can become dry in the cooking process.
Layering Flavors: Sauté the vegetables first to build a rich base for your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. Skipping this step can lead to a flat taste.
Freezing Tips: Cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. This prevents freezer burn and preserves flavor for later enjoyment.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick after cooking, simply add a little more broth or water to reach your desired texture.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Add salt and pepper incrementally, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned to your liking.

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of pot roast should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a well-marbled pot roast that will break down beautifully during the slow cooking process. Cuts like chuck roast are perfect, as they become tender and flavorful. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they can end up dry rather than melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
You can safely store leftover Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to keep the flavors at their best.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
No worries at all! If you find your soup is too thick, simply add a little more beef broth or water, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will help achieve that nice, comforting texture that makes this soup so beloved.

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Very! This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is quite versatile, making it easy to customize for dietary needs. You can substitute the beef with lentils or beans to create a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of any allergies to specific vegetables or broth types if you’re serving this to friends or family with dietary restrictions.

What can I do with leftovers?
I often suggest repurposing leftovers by blending them into a delicious casserole topped with cheese or using them as a scrumptious filling for stuffed peppers. You can also enjoy the soup as is, paired with crusty bread for a hearty meal!