If you’re craving a warm, satisfying bowl of comfort that’s both hearty and full of fresh flavors, this Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is just the ticket. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big, cozy hug from the inside out — packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth that makes every spoonful taste like home. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or just want to impress someone with a simple, flavorful meal, this soup hits all the right notes with minimal fuss. Prepare to fall in love with a recipe that’s approachable, nourishing, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward and wholesome ingredients is key to making this soup sing. Each one plays a vital role in creating a balance of textures, colors, and rich savory flavors that make this dish so inviting.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and enhances the soup’s overall richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that brings satisfying depth and meaty warmth.
- 1 small onion (diced): Infuses sweetness and a subtle aromatic backbone.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers a punch of savory flavor that brightens up the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth: The soul of the soup, adding robust, comforting taste and liquid to simmer all ingredients together.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Offers tangy brightness and a hint of acidity that balances the richness.
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables: A convenient medley that brings vibrant color and wholesome veggies.
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced): Add hearty texture and mild earthiness, making the soup more filling.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and a touch of fragrant complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and ties everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and a peppery kick.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional): For those aiming for a richer, deeper tomato flavor in their soup.
How to Make Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with your spoon or spatula. Cook until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, which releases those juicy, beefy flavors foundational to this recipe. If there’s extra grease, drain it off to keep the soup balanced without becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes tender and translucent, and the garlic fragrance fills your kitchen. This step builds layers of flavor and sets a delicious base for the broth.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the beef broth along with the diced tomatoes, keeping their juicy goodness intact. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes, ensuring they disperse evenly throughout the pot. These ingredients bring color and hearty texture to every spoonful.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and if you want to enrich the tomato flavor, mix in the tomato paste now. Give everything a good stir, then bring the soup to a lively boil before reducing the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and all the flavors meld into a harmonious blend.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjustments
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. This final check ensures every bowl is perfectly seasoned and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese to add a fresh, flavorful contrast. A dash of cracked black pepper on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor just enough to make each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic toast, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness and keeps the meal light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe in a hollowed-out rustic bread bowl for an inviting, fun twist. Or ladle it into individual mugs for a cozy, casual appetizer at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and taste even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for uneven heating; stovetop reheating preserves flavors and texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables will work wonderfully; just keep in mind you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since fresh veggies can cook faster or slower than frozen ones.
Is it possible to substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even leftover roast beef to change up the flavors while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking brings out incredible depth in the soup.
How do I make the soup thicker if I prefer it that way?
Try simmering the soup uncovered a bit longer to reduce the broth, or mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to naturally thicken it.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is like welcoming a little warmth and comfort into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavors that satisfy on every level. Give it a go—you’ll soon see why it becomes a beloved favorite for weeknights, leftovers, and sharing with family and friends.
Print
Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The soup simmers on the stovetop, allowing the ingredients to meld into a warm, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing its aroma.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes along with their juices, frozen mixed vegetables, and diced potatoes. This forms the hearty base of your soup.
- Season the Soup: Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste if using. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly throughout the soup.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or leftover roast beef for a variation in flavor and texture.
- Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender.
- Adding a bay leaf during simmering enhances the flavor—remember to remove it before serving.
