Healthy Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe for Easy Meal Prep

Updated On: October 8, 2025

When it comes to comfort food that’s both nourishing and delicious, a hearty beef vegetable soup always hits the spot. This healthy beef vegetable soup recipe combines lean beef with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, creating a meal that’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a wholesome, warming dish, this soup is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it fresh for dinner, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced meal without the heaviness of cream or excessive fats.

This recipe focuses on using quality ingredients and simple cooking techniques that bring out the natural goodness of every component. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.

Feel free to get creative while keeping things healthy and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy beef vegetable soup is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Using lean beef ensures you get ample protein without the extra saturated fat, while the colorful vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins to keep you energized.

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. It also freezes beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking and busy days.

The combination of herbs and spices infuses the broth with rich aromas and depth of flavor, making every spoonful comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, family-friendly dinner, or a nutritious lunch option, this soup fits the bill. And if you enjoy exploring more wholesome recipes, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for plant-based inspiration!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
  • 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef’s knife for chopping vegetables
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Ladle for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
  7. Optional: Stir in fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking to add extra nutrients and color.
  8. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

For a lower-carb version, swap carrots and potatoes for more zucchini or cauliflower florets.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, avoid stirring too vigorously once the vegetables are in to keep them intact.

Try adding a teaspoon of chilli powder for a mild kick.

For a slow cooker version, brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 28 g
Fat 10 g
Saturated Fat 3.5 g
Carbohydrates 15 g
Fiber 5 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 450 mg
Vitamin A 110% DV
Vitamin C 45% DV
Iron 25% DV

Serving Suggestions

This beef vegetable soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with some light sides. Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread or a crisp green salad for added texture and freshness.

For a cozy touch, top your bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for creaminess without added fat. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make for a quick lunch option.

Looking for more nourishing soups to complement your meal plan? Explore 5 Ingredient Soup Recipes Vegetarian for Quick Healthy Meals for easy and wholesome ideas!

Conclusion

This healthy beef vegetable soup recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. The combination of lean beef and a variety of fresh vegetables delivers essential nutrients while keeping calories in check.

Its simplicity and adaptability make it a great option whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just craving something warm and comforting.

Don’t hesitate to tweak the veggies or spices to suit your preferences and dietary needs. And if you love exploring wholesome recipes, be sure to check out more healthy meal ideas like Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and here’s to many delicious, healthy bowls ahead!

📖 Recipe Card: Healthy Beef Vegetable Soup

Description: A nutritious and hearty soup packed with lean beef and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome meal that is both satisfying and low in calories.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat; drain excess fat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth.
  5. Add thyme, basil, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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