Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! There are few things as comforting and soul-satisfying as a big bowl of warm, hearty soup, especially one that’s brimming with tender beef and a colorful medley of vegetables. Today, we’re diving into a true classic: Vegetable Beef Soup. This isn’t just soup; it’s a complete meal, a hug in a bowl, and a fantastic way to nourish your family with wholesome ingredients and incredible flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Vegetable Beef Soup recipe is a staple in my kitchen for so many great reasons. I love it because it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s wonderfully hearty and satisfying, making it a fantastic meal on its own, especially on a chilly day. The deep, rich broth, combined with tender beef and a variety of textures from the vegetables, creates a symphony of flavors that feels both complex and wonderfully familiar. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal fuss, as much of the magic happens in one pot!

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting Vegetable Beef Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, green beans, carrots)
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Swaps and Notes

• Beef: Beef stew meat (like chuck roast) is ideal as it becomes wonderfully tender when simmered. You can also use ground beef for a quicker version (brown it and drain excess fat before adding other veggies).
• Vegetables: This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like green beans, corn, zucchini, spinach (add at the very end), or even a handful of cabbage. Adjust quantities based on your preference.
• Broth: Beef broth provides the richest flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can be used.
• Tomatoes: The combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste adds depth and richness to the broth.
• Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano are classic for beef soup. Rosemary can also be a lovely addition.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well. Dicing them small helps them cook through quickly.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids & Seasonings: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. This long simmer allows the beef to break down and the flavors to deepen.
5. Add Remaining Vegetables: After the beef is tender, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and the diced fresh potato. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Season & Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed (you might need more salt or pepper). Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread.

Tips for Success

• Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Don’t skip this step! Browning the beef creates a rich, complex flavor base for your soup.
• Low and Slow Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for an extended period is key for tender beef and deep, melded flavors.
• Add Vegetables in Stages: Adding root vegetables (carrots, potatoes) earlier allows them to soften, while delicate frozen mixed vegetables are added later to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference. The saltiness of broth and canned ingredients can vary.
• Remove Bay Leaf: Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette, cornbread, or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast.
• Sandwiches: A grilled cheese sandwich or a simple ham and cheese sandwich makes a classic pairing.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers of Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup are fantastic – often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld! Store any cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also reheat in the microwave. This soup freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the comforting, hearty nature of this Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other favorite one-pot wonders and comforting family meals:

• For another classic and comforting pasta meal, my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce is a must-try.
• If you’re a fan of convenient one-pan dinners packed with flavor, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• For a quick and satisfying dinner packed with Southern goodness, my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage is a go-to.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.
• Finally, for a true taste of the South and another hearty, flavorful stew, dive into a bowl of my incredibly comforting Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo.

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Final Thoughts

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a timeless classic that brings warmth, nourishment, and incredible flavor to your table. It’s comforting, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and let this delicious soup become a new favorite in your home!

What are your favorite vegetables to add to beef soup, or your go-to comfort food soups? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes that bring joy to your kitchen, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.