Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup: A Comfort Food Classic
🥣 There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of hearty beef vegetable soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is both filling and deeply satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. 🍞
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- ✅ One-pot meal with minimal cleanup
- ✅ Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients
- ✅ Budget-friendly and great for meal prep
- ✅ Freezer-friendly for future comfort meals
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 carrots, sliced
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 10 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 3: Add Base Vegetables
Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Return beef to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
Step 5: Add Final Vegetables
Add corn and green beans. Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaves, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread. 🍞
Expert Chef Tips
Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Browning the beef properly is key—it builds deep, rich flavor in the broth.”
Ina Garten: “Don’t rush the simmering process. Low and slow cooking makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.”
Bobby Flay: “Add a splash of red wine while sautéing onions for a deeper, more complex flavor.”
Ree Drummond: “If you’re feeding a crowd, serve with homemade biscuits—it’s a guaranteed hit.”
Nutrition & Health Benefits
This hearty soup is not just comfort food—it’s also nutrient-rich. It provides protein from beef, fiber from vegetables, and immune-boosting vitamins and minerals.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bowl (about 2 cups) | 320 | 28g | 22g | 12g | 6g |
Health & Safety Tips
- 🥩 Trim excess fat from beef to keep the broth lighter.
- 🥕 Cut vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- 🔥 Always simmer gently to avoid tough beef.
- ❄️ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp chili flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Italian Style: Stir in 1 tsp Italian seasoning and 1 cup small pasta.
- Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with turnips or cauliflower.
- Slow Cooker Method: Brown beef, then cook everything on low for 7–8 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours.
2. Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
You can, but stew meat provides better texture and richness.
3. How do I thicken the broth?
Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the soup during the last 10 minutes.
4. Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, add small pasta like macaroni or 1/2 cup rice in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
5. What type of beef is best?
Beef chuck or stew meat works best as they become tender with slow cooking.
6. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
7. How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth.
8. Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste.
9. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional—skins add extra fiber and nutrients.
10. What can I serve with beef vegetable soup?
Crusty bread, biscuits, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad.
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Final Thoughts
Hearty beef vegetable soup is more than a meal—it’s a tradition of warmth, comfort, and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers flavor, health, and satisfaction in every bowl. 🥣✨
