This hearty vegetable beef soup is packed with tender beef and colorful veggies like carrots and potatoes. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
I love how all the flavors blend together. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a yummy smell! You can even save some for later—it tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein source. You can use lean ground beef for lower fat or even ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Beef Broth: It greatly enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time or want a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute!
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, green beans, and peas provide richness. You can add other veggies like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers based on what you have or like.
Pasta: The small pasta rings add a fun texture. Use any small pasta you have on hand, or skip it if you prefer a non-pasta soup.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
To truly maximize the flavor, start by sautéing the onions and garlic until soft. This creates a base for your soup that’s full of richness. As you brown the ground beef, be sure to break it apart well so it cooks evenly. Adding the tomato paste enhances the stew’s depth, so don’t skip this step!
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste—fresh parsley as a garnish brings a pop of color and brightness.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; let it go for at least 25-30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for a perfect balance of flavors.
Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup small pasta rings (optional)
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty vegetable beef soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should set aside about an hour to prepare and cook this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This will create a delicious base for your soup!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef into the pot. Cook it for 6-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess fat, make sure to drain it off.
3. Add Flavor with Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another minute, mixing it well with the beef.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, potatoes, celery, green beans, dried basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the flavors combine nicely!
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring your soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to deepen.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
About 10 minutes before the soup is done, stir in the frozen peas and optional pasta rings. Continue simmering until the pasta is cooked and the peas are heated through.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, take a moment to taste your soup. Feel free to add more salt or pepper if needed to enhance the flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the soup hot into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your comforting bowl of vegetable beef soup!
This soup is hearty, colorful, and packed with veggies and beef, making it perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for larger chunks of meat.
Can I Freeze Leftover Vegetable Beef Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your soup with seasonal vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, corn, or spinach are great options that can be included or substituted based on your preference.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You could also add more beans or lentils for protein!