Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe With V8 for Quick Healthy Meals

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of hearty vegetable beef soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This comforting classic is taken to the next level by incorporating V8 vegetable juice, which adds a rich depth of flavor and a boost of nutrients without any extra effort.

Whether you’re coming home after a long day or preparing a cozy meal for your family, this vegetable beef soup recipe with V8 is simple, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and soul.

The blend of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and the vibrant taste of V8 makes for a deliciously balanced meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

Perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner, this soup is as versatile as it is tasty. And if you’re a fan of soups that deliver warmth and nutrition in every spoonful, you’re going to love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable beef soup with V8 is a true crowd-pleaser because it’s:

• Rich and Flavorful: The V8 juice brings a unique, savory vegetable base that enhances the beef and herbs beautifully.
• Nutritious: Loaded with a variety of vegetables and lean beef, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein.
• Easy to Prepare: Using V8 juice saves time and adds complexity without needing to chop and simmer multiple vegetables separately.
• Comforting and Filling: Great as a hearty meal on its own or paired with crusty bread for extra satisfaction.
• Customizable: You can easily swap or add vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or make it spicier according to your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups V8 vegetable juice (low sodium recommended)
• 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes)
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Soup ladle
• Optional: Immersion blender (for creamier texture, if desired)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels to help them brown beautifully. Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef: Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides until nicely caramelized, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in about 1 cup of the V8 juice and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds a lot of flavor to your soup base.
5. Add liquids and seasonings: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the remaining V8 juice, beef broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
7. Add vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, green beans, and potatoes. Continue simmering, uncovered, for another 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
8. Season to taste: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust salt and black pepper as needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
10. Optional: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then stir it back in.

Tips & Variations

“Make this soup your own by swapping in your favorite seasonal vegetables — zucchini, peas, or corn all work wonderfully!”

• Use ground beef: If you prefer, substitute stew meat with 1 lb of ground beef for a quicker cook time.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for some heat.
• Vegetarian version: Replace beef with hearty beans like kidney or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Slow cooker adaptation: Brown the beef and sauté onions, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Thicken the soup: Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking if you prefer a thicker broth.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable beef soup with V8 is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Fresh green salad: A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Cheesy garlic toast: Adds a delicious, indulgent touch for those who love a bit of cheese.
• Rice or quinoa: A scoop stirred into the soup transforms it into a heartier stew.

Conclusion

This vegetable beef soup recipe with V8 is a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. The clever use of V8 juice enhances the soup’s vegetable profile while saving time and boosting nutrition, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekend lunches.

It’s flexible enough to adapt to whatever vegetables are on hand, and the tender, savory beef adds satisfying protein that keeps you energized.

Whether you’re new to making soups from scratch or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. For more creative and delicious recipes to complement your soup, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into the hearty flavors of Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

And if you love adding your own spice blends, don’t miss the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to kick up the flavor in any dish.

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