Few things are as comforting as a hearty bowl of homemade beef vegetable soup. Inspired by the classic Food Network recipe, this soup is all about layers of flavor, tender beef, and a generous helping of garden-fresh vegetables simmered together until everything melds into pure comfort.
Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal to warm up a chilly evening or a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights, this beef vegetable soup recipe delivers every time.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility—you can adapt it to whatever veggies you have on hand, and it’s just as delicious the next day. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak extra nutrition into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
In this post, I’ll walk you through each step with tips for the best results, delicious variations, and even some serving suggestions to make your meal complete. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef vegetable soup stands out for its rich, savory broth and the balance of hearty beef with vibrant, tender vegetables. No matter the season, it’s a reliable go-to comfort food that pleases a crowd or makes for a cozy solo dinner.
- Full of Flavor: Browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables bring out deep, savory notes that make this soup irresistible.
- Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
- Adaptable: Swap in your favorite vegetables, use different cuts of beef, or even make it in your slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for prepping ahead and reheating as needed.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the tender beef and colorful veggies in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Beef stew meat | 1.5 lbs (680g) | Cut into 1-inch cubes |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For browning beef and veggies |
Yellow onion | 1 large | Diced |
Carrots | 3 medium | Peeled and sliced |
Celery stalks | 2 | Sliced |
Russet potatoes | 2 medium | Peeled and diced |
Green beans | 1 cup | Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces |
Frozen corn | 1 cup | Or fresh if available |
Diced tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | With juices |
Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | For depth of flavor |
Beef broth | 6 cups | Low sodium preferred |
Bay leaf | 1 | Optional, but recommended |
Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Or 2 tsp fresh |
Salt | 1.5 tsp | Adjust to taste |
Black pepper | 1 tsp | Freshly ground |
Frozen peas | 1 cup | Added at the end |
Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Bowl for prepping ingredients
- Optional: Slow cooker (for hands-off variation)
Instructions
-
Brown the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in your Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high. Add half the beef stew meat in a single layer.
Let it brown undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then turn to brown all sides. Remove to a plate and repeat with remaining oil and beef.
-
Sauté Aromatics:
Add the onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in carrots and celery and cook for another 4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
-
Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef (and juices) to the pot. Stir in potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
-
Add Broth & Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 50-60 minutes, until beef is tender and potatoes are cooked through.
Tip: For ultra-tender beef, simmer on very low heat for up to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
-
Add Remaining Vegetables:
Stir in the corn and peas. Simmer uncovered for another 5-8 minutes, until vegetables are just tender.
-
Finish & Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips & Variations
-
Make It in the Slow Cooker:
Brown beef and aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, adding peas and corn in the last 30 minutes.
-
Use Different Vegetables:
Try parsnips, turnips, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach at the end for a twist on the classic.
-
Broth Boost:
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of soy sauce for deeper umami flavor.
-
Make It Gluten-Free:
Double check your beef broth is certified gluten-free.
-
For Leaner Soup:
Trim excess fat from beef before browning, or use extra-lean stew meat.
- Love vegetable-heavy soups? Try this Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for a lighter, plant-based option!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 6) |
---|---|
Calories | 355 |
Protein | 27g |
Total Fat | 13g |
Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
Carbohydrates | 31g |
Fiber | 6g |
Sugar | 8g |
Sodium | 850mg |
Vitamin A | 120% |
Vitamin C | 35% |
Iron | 22% |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is wonderful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a thick slice of your favorite rustic bread or try this Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for a homemade touch.
- Salads: A fresh green salad or a simple slaw adds color and crunch to your meal.
- Cheese Toast: Top slices of bread with a little cheese and broil until bubbly for a classic pairing.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.
- Brighten with Herbs: Add fresh dill or thyme just before serving for extra aroma and flavor.
- Try with a Veggie Side: If you love vegetables, you’ll enjoy this Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals as a nutritious side dish.
Conclusion
Hearty, wholesome, and brimming with flavor, this beef vegetable soup recipe is a staple you’ll return to time and again. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family together around the table, filling both your kitchen and your heart with warmth.
With simple, flexible ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels and can be adapted to suit your preferences.
If you’re looking to explore more ways to pack your meals with vegetables, don’t miss our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners and the vibrant ideas in Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.
Enjoy your soup, savor the flavors, and happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Beef Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and comforting soup loaded with tender beef and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT1H15M
Total Time: PT1H35M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add beef and brown on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Pour in beef broth and water; bring to a boil.
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and tomatoes.
- Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, until beef and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 26 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 28 g
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