As the sun dips below the horizon and a chill creeps into the air, there’s nothing quite like the warm comfort of a steaming bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that transforms chilly evenings into cozy gatherings. With tender bites of beef and a vibrant array of vegetables nestled in a savory broth, this hearty creation offers the best of comfort food—it’s quick to prepare and easily customizable to suit your taste. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the inviting aromas of this classic favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is Vegetable Beef Soup So Comforting? Warmth in Every Bite: This Vegetable Beef Soup envelops you with its rich flavors and savory ingredients, making it the perfect dish for cold days. Customizable Goodness: With flexible ingredient options, you can mix and match veggies or add spices to make this soup uniquely yours. Family Favorite: It brings everyone together for cozy family dinners, creating memories over warm bowls and crusty bread. Quick & Easy: Prep takes minimal time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Nutritious Delight: Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s comforting food that’s also good for you. So, whether you’re looking for a delicious dish similar to our Cabbage Soup Comforting or hearty like our Beef Noodles Cozy, this soup hits the spot! Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients • Get ready to savor a comforting classic! For the Meat • Beef Stew Meat – Choose cuts like chuck for rich flavor and tenderness; chuck roast is a great lean alternative. For the Base • Olive Oil – Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables; feel free to use vegetable oil instead. • Onion (diced) – Essential for adding a layer of sweetness; shallots can be swapped for a milder taste. • Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best, but powdered works in a pinch. For the Broth • Beef Broth – The soup’s flavor foundation; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option. • Water – Balances flavors and adds necessary volume. • Canned Diced Tomatoes – Offers acidity and a touch of sweetness; use fresh tomatoes if preferred. For the Vegetables • Carrots (diced) – They bring natural sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips add a unique twist if swapped. • Celery (diced) – Adds crunch and earthiness; omit if celery isn’t your favorite. • Potatoes (diced) – Contributes heartiness; sweet potatoes are a flavorful alternative. • Green Beans (trimmed and chopped) – Provides freshness and texture; frozen green beans work well too. • Corn (fresh or frozen) – Adds sweetness and eye-catching color; feel free to omit if unavailable. • Peas (fresh or frozen) – Brings sweetness and bites of texture; frozen peas are a convenient choice. For the Seasonings • Fresh Thyme – A must-have for savory depth; dried thyme can be substituted. • Fresh Basil – Brightens flavor; Italian seasoning can step in if you’re out of basil. • Bay Leaf – Adds complexity; remember to remove it before serving. • Salt & Black Pepper – Key seasonings to taste; adjust according to your palate. Optional Garnish • Fresh Parsley – A lovely touch for freshness and color before serving. Now, gather these ingredients and prepare to warm your soul with this deliciously hearty Vegetable Beef Soup! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegetable Beef Soup Step 1: Brown the Beef In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add 1 pound of beef stew meat and brown it for 5-7 minutes until golden on all sides. This process locks in flavors, so be patient as it develops a savory crust. Once browned, carefully remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This will enhance the base of your Vegetable Beef Soup, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 6 cups of beef broth and 2 cups of water. Then, add a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 2 diced potatoes, and 1 cup of trimmed and chopped green beans. Toss in fresh thyme, fresh basil, a bay leaf, and season with salt and black pepper to taste, mixing everything well. Step 4: Bring to a Boil Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 5-8 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let your Vegetable Beef Soup simmer gently for 45-60 minutes. As it cooks, the beef will become tender, and the vegetables will retain their vibrant colors while softening. Step 5: Add Final Ingredients After simmering, incorporate 1 cup of corn and 1 cup of peas into the soup, stirring to combine. Keep the pot on low heat and let it heat through for another 5-10 minutes. This final addition adds sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall appeal of your Vegetable Beef Soup. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once everything is well heated, carefully remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the flavorful Vegetable Beef Soup into bowls and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an inviting touch. Serve with crusty bread or biscuits for a comforting meal that everyone will love. Vegetable Beef Soup Variations Feel free to sprinkle your own magic into this comforting Vegetable Beef Soup and make it truly yours! Extra Veggies: Add fresh seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an exciting twist that enhances flavor and nutrition. Spicy Kick: Introducing diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce can ramp up the heat, giving your soup a delightful kick. Hearty Addition: Toss in some small pasta shells or rice during the last few minutes for a satisfying and filling meal. Gluten-Free Grains: Quinoa or brown rice can be a lovely alternative to traditional pasta, adding a nutty flavor and bonus nutrients. Herb Swap: If you’re low on fresh herbs, mix in Italian seasoning instead of thyme and basil for a unique flavor profile. Creamy Touch: A bit of heavy cream or coconut milk stirred in at the end can turn this soup into a rich and luxurious delight. Umami Boost: A splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory depth and complexity, making every sip a decadent experience. Vegetarian Twist: Swap the beef with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying. For even more comfort food ideas, consider exploring our Cabbage Soup Comforting or delve into the warmth of our cozy Beef Noodles Cozy. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings new joy to your table! Expert Tips for Vegetable Beef Soup Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure beef is nicely browned before adding other ingredients; this enhances the soup’s overall flavor and richness. Veggie Timing: Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain firm yet tender for the best texture in your Vegetable Beef Soup. Flavor Development: Let the soup sit overnight in the fridge—this allows flavors to meld and often results in a tastier dish the next day. Slow Cooker Magic: For a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté onions/garlic first, then add all ingredients except peas and corn. Herb Alternatives: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried herbs to maintain robust flavor in your Vegetable Beef Soup; just adjust the amounts as dried herbs are more concentrated. What to Serve with Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup Warm up your dinner table with delicious pairings that elevate this comforting classic into a wholesome feast. Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing the soup’s flavors while adding a satisfying crunch. Cheesy Garlic Bread: A cheesy twist on classic garlic bread brings an irresistible blend of flavors that complements the hearty soup beautifully. Side Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the savory elements of the soup. Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits provide a delightful texture that’s perfect for sopping up the delicious broth, making each bite more indulgent. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies introduce a caramelized sweetness and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the robust soup. Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with cinnamon brings a sweet finish, contrasting perfectly with the savory nature of the soup. Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink like sparkling water with a slice of lemon balances the richness and cleanses the palate between bites. Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine, such as Merlot, enhances the beefy flavors, while its acidity brightens the overall taste experience. Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for a salty finish that adds depth, making each bowl a little extra special. How to Store and Freeze Vegetable Beef Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Freezer: Vegetable Beef Soup freezes beautifully! Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain the flavors and textures of the vegetables and beef. Reheating: When ready to serve, heat the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave until it’s steaming hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Make Ahead Options Vegetable Beef Soup is a fantastic option for those looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and even brown the beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then allow them to cool before combining with the prepped ingredients in an airtight container and refrigerating. The soup can also be made completely, cooled, and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving to keep it just as delicious as when first made. For even longer storage, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy its heartwarming flavors any day of the week! Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe vegetables for my Vegetable Beef Soup? Absolutely! Look for vibrant colors and firm textures: fresh carrots should be smooth without dark spots, and potatoes should feel heavy for their size. For tomatoes, select ones without bruises or cracks, opting for ripe ones that yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor in your soup. What is the best way to store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For optimal freshness, let the soup cool completely before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup? If so, how? Very! To freeze your Vegetable Beef Soup, let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove until steaming hot. What if my soup is too thick or too thin? If your Vegetable Beef Soup is too thick, stir in a bit of beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to reduce and thicken. It’s a forgiving recipe, so adjust to your personal preference! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Certainly! This Vegetable Beef Soup is gluten-free, but always check the labels on pre-packaged ingredients like broth and diced tomatoes to ensure they meet your dietary needs. If serving to pets, be cautious with ingredients like onions and garlic, as they can be harmful to dogs and cats. Can I use different proteins, or should I stick with beef? Absolutely! While the classic recipe calls for beef stew meat, you can easily substitute it with shredded chicken, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian twist. Each protein will give your soup a deliciously different flair, so feel free to experiment based on your family’s preferences. Cozy Up with Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup You’ll Love Enjoy a warm bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup, perfect for cold nights, packed with tender beef and vibrant vegetables. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat1 pound Beef Stew Meat Chuck roast recommended for leaner option.For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.1 medium Onion (diced) Shallots can be used for milder taste.3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic preferred.For the Broth6 cups Beef Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.2 cups Water1 14.5-ounce can Canned Diced Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be substituted.For the Vegetables2 medium Carrots (diced) Parsnips can be a unique twist.2 stalks Celery (diced) Omit if celery isn’t preferred.2 medium Potatoes (diced) Sweet potatoes are a flavorful alternative.1 cup Green Beans (trimmed and chopped) Frozen green beans can be used.1 cup Corn (fresh or frozen) Omit if unavailable.1 cup Peas (fresh or frozen) Frozen peas are convenient.For the Seasonings1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Dried thyme can be used.1 tablespoon Fresh Basil Substitute with Italian seasoning if out.1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.to taste Salt & Black PepperOptional Garnish1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley For freshness and color. Equipment Large potDutch oven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of beef stew meat and brown it for 5-7 minutes until golden on all sides.In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute.Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 6 cups of beef broth and 2 cups of water. Then add canned diced tomatoes, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 2 diced potatoes, and 1 cup of green beans.Increase heat to boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer gently for 45-60 minutes.Incorporate 1 cup of corn and 1 cup of peas into the soup, stirring to combine and let heat through for another 5-10 minutes.Carefully remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg NotesLetting the soup sit overnight improves flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
