Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe

If there’s one thing that feels like home on a chilly evening, it’s a warm, hearty bowl of beef vegetable soup. This dish isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about comfort, flavor, and the satisfaction of a wholesome meal that doesn’t take hours to make. What makes beef vegetable soup such a go-to classic is its versatility – it can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand, and it’s a perfect way to incorporate protein and nutrients into your diet.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complex cooking techniques. Just a few staple items from your kitchen, and you’re on your way to making a meal that will not only nourish your body but also your soul. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a big pot to enjoy throughout the week, this easy beef vegetable soup recipe is the perfect solution.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and explore everything you need to know to make a delicious beef vegetable soup that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This easy beef vegetable soup recipe is exactly what you need if you want a no-fuss, yet satisfying meal. The slow simmering of beef with vegetables allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, and the tender chunks of beef create a rich, savory base that makes every spoonful a delight.

Ingredients Needed

To make this comforting soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Soup Base

Beef stew meat (about 1 lb): Tender cuts like chuck or round work best because they become melt-in-your-mouth soft after simmering.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for browning the beef and adding a little richness to the soup.
Onion (1 medium): Adds a savory depth of flavor to the base.
Garlic (3-4 cloves): Enhances the overall aroma with a fragrant punch.
Beef broth (4 cups): The liquid foundation that brings everything together, with a deep, hearty flavor.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Adds a little richness and a burst of umami flavor.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): These bring a touch of acidity and freshness.
Carrots (2 large): Provides a slight sweetness and crunchy texture to the soup.
Celery (2 stalks): Offers a mild, slightly earthy flavor and crunch.
Potatoes (2 medium): Adds heartiness and comfort; they also soak up the flavors of the broth.

For The Seasoning

Bay leaves (2): Imparts a subtle aromatic flavor.
Thyme (1 teaspoon dried or 2 sprigs fresh): Adds a touch of earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Optional Garnishes

Chopped parsley: For a fresh, green finish.
Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of cheese adds richness and a slightly salty contrast.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring this tasty beef vegetable soup together:

Brown The Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat in batches. You want to brown the beef on all sides. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté The Veggies
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, and sauté for another 3-5 minutes. This will help bring out the sweetness of the veggies.
Add The Liquids And Seasoning
- Return the beef to the pot and stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats all the ingredients.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, followed by the bay leaves and thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine.
Simmer
- Bring the soup 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 tender and the flavors have melded together.
Final Adjustments
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- Discard the bay leaves, and if desired, sprinkle some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top.

Ingredient Insights

When it comes to creating a balanced and flavorful beef vegetable soup, the ingredients play a crucial role. Let’s break down why each one is essential to the overall dish:

Beef stew meat: This cut of beef is ideal because it has just the right amount of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down during the long simmer, creating a tender and flavorful soup base.
Beef broth: A good-quality beef broth (or stock) provides the rich, meaty flavor that makes this soup satisfying and savory. You can opt for a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are the backbone of this soup, each offering a distinct texture and flavor. The carrots provide natural sweetness, the celery gives a slight earthiness, and the potatoes add bulk and comfort.
Tomatoes: Both the paste and the diced tomatoes work together to bring some acidity and freshness to balance out the richness of the beef.
Herbs and spices: Thyme and bay leaves are subtle yet important. Thyme adds an earthy, herbal note, while bay leaves impart an aromatic depth. These flavors slowly infuse into the soup as it simmers.

Expert Tips

Browning the Beef: Don’t rush this step! Brown the beef in batches if necessary. This caramelization adds depth and complexity to the flavor of your soup.
Use a heavy pot: A Dutch oven or a thick-bottomed pot will help retain heat and cook the ingredients evenly. It also prevents the soup from scorching.
Let it Simmer Low and Slow: The longer you let the soup simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. Don’t rush the cooking time. The beef will become tender, and the veggies will absorb the broth’s flavors.
Make it Ahead: Like many soups, this one tastes even better the next day. If you can, prepare it a day ahead and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes once the soup is done to create a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can blend a small portion of the soup in a blender or food processor and stir it back into the pot.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to make some changes based on your preferences:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and use vegetable broth instead. You can add in additional vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based soup.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy version of the soup. A splash of hot sauce at the end can also kick things up a notch.
Herb Swaps: Instead of thyme, you could use rosemary for a more robust flavor or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Pasta Addition: If you want a more filling soup, toss in some small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Slow Cooker Version: If you have more time, brown the beef and sauté the veggies, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for an even more hands-off approach.

Final Words

This easy beef vegetable soup is more than just a recipe – it’s a timeless dish that embodies the heart of home cooking. Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all levels, while the layers of flavor make it unforgettable. Whether you’re trying to warm up after a busy day, prepping for a family meal, or even meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Easy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe