Ah, the classic Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup! This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I bet it will in yours too, once you give it a try! I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I was craving something hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. As the rich aroma filled my kitchen, I could already envision it being an instant favorite for cozy family dinners.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility. You can toss in whatever vegetables are lurking in your fridge, and it still turns out delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to create a meal that not only fills your belly but warms your soul. So grab a pot, and let’s cook together!
What’s in Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I like to use lean ground beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor. You could also use stew meat if you prefer a chunkier texture.
Carrots: These vibrant orange gems add sweetness and a lovely crunch. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins!
Celery: A must-have for that essential soup flavor. Its crisp texture and mild taste complement the other veggies perfectly.
Onion: It brings everything together with its aromatic goodness. I prefer yellow onions for their balanced sweetness.
Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a hint of warmth.
Vegetable broth: A flavorful base for our soup! Homemade is best, but a good quality store-bought version works wonders too.
Canned diced tomatoes: They add a burst of brightness and acidity. I always opt for no-salt-added varieties for better control over seasoning.
Frozen mixed vegetables: This is where the magic happens! I usually go for a classic blend of peas, corn, and green beans. It saves time and makes the soup even easier!
Bay leaves: Just a couple of leaves add depth and a subtle herbal note. Remember to remove them before serving!
Is Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is not only delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch. Let’s break it down:
Ground Beef: A great source of protein and iron, which are essential for keeping your energy levels up during those busy days.
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots can support your eye health and improve your immune system – so you can keep enjoying those cold-weather days!
Celery: With its high water content and low-calorie count, celery is a great addition if you’re looking to stay hydrated.
Onion and Garlic: Both contain antioxidants that support your health and help boost your metabolism.
The only downside is that if you overindulge and eat too much, you might feel stuffed! So moderation is key here.
Ingredients for Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup
This recipe makes about 6 servings.
– 1 pound ground beef (lean)
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
– 1-2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
How to Make Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if using higher-fat beef.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine.
4. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves!
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy!
Soup-er Tips and Variations!
– If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-chopped vegetables or the frozen mixed vegetables straight from the freezer.
– Want a little heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while you sauté the veggies for a kick!
– For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
– This soup freezes wonderfully! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
I really hope you give this Easy Beef and Vegetable Soup a try. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! I would love to hear how yours turns out, or if you make any of your own twists on the recipe. Happy cooking!