Hearty Beef Barley Soup with Chuck Roast (Ultimate Comfort Bowl)
There’s nothing quite like a big pot of Beef Barley Soup simmering on the stove. The aroma alone feels like a warm hug. Tender chuck roast, hearty barley, sweet carrots, and savory broth come together in a rich, deeply satisfying soup that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations.
This is the kind of recipe you make on a chilly afternoon, when you want something slow-simmered, nourishing, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table.
Let’s get into it.
Why I Love This Recipe
Beef barley soup is classic comfort food for a reason. It’s hearty without being heavy, filling without feeling overly rich. The barley thickens the broth naturally, and the slow-simmered chuck roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
What makes this version special?
- Deep, savory flavor from seared beef
- Aromatic herbs that elevate the broth
- Perfect balance of vegetables and grains
- Great for leftovers (it’s even better the next day!)
This is real, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2–3 lbs chuck roast
- 2 carrots, sliced thin
- 2 stalks celery, sliced thin
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground thyme
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- ⅔ cup medium barley
- 1 (14.5 oz) can corn, drained
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes fork-tender after simmering.
- Pearl barley works well, but adjust cook time slightly if using quick-cooking barley.
- You can swap corn for green beans or peas if preferred.
- Add mushrooms for an extra layer of earthy flavor.
- Want it thicker? Let it simmer uncovered longer at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Beef
In a Dutch oven or large stockpot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Simmer
Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and add the bay leaf. Return the seared beef to the pot.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1½ hours, or until the roast is fork-tender.
4. Add Barley & Corn
Stir in barley and drained corn. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.
Remove lid and continue simmering for 15 minutes, allowing the barley to fully cook and the broth to thicken.
5. Shred the Beef
Remove the roast from the pot. Trim away excess fat or gristle. Cut or shred into bite-sized pieces and return to the soup.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips for Success
- Searing the beef properly adds rich, deep flavor to the broth. Don’t skip this step.
- Keep the simmer gentle — boiling can toughen the meat.
- Stir occasionally once barley is added to prevent sticking.
- Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This soup is perfect with:
- Warm crusty bread
- A simple green salad
- Buttery dinner rolls
If you love cozy, Southern-inspired comfort dishes, you’ll also enjoy This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort.
For another hearty stovetop dinner, try This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
Need a comforting pasta night instead? Don’t miss This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast.
For a cozy Sunday-style meal, pair it with These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays.
And if you’re finishing the meal with something sweet, nothing beats This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 450–520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth used
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Soup thickens as it sits — add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Cool completely before freezing for best texture.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If hearty, comforting meals are your thing, try:
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
- These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
Each one brings that same satisfying, comfort-food energy.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Barley Soup is everything comfort food should be — rich, hearty, and made to share. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with incredible aroma and your bowl with deep, satisfying flavor.
If you make this recipe, let me know how it turns out. Did you add mushrooms? Extra herbs? A splash of Worcestershire?
I’d love to hear your twist.
Until next time,
Jason Griffith
ChefManiac.com
