If you’re searching for a comfort meal that’s both hearty and wholesome, this Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe is just the ticket. Packed with vibrant vegetables and rich ground beef, it delivers cozy warmth and satisfying flavors that dance on your taste buds. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or something nourishing to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup brings together simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender ground beef to the mix of fresh and canned veggies, each element is both simple and essential for that perfect bowl of soup.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base to sauté the meat and vegetables, enhancing the overall richness.
- Ground beef: Adds heartiness and protein, creating the perfect meaty foundation.
- Yellow onion: Offers sweetness and depth when softened with garlic.
- Garlic cloves: Bring aromatic warmth and bold flavor notes.
- Carrots: Add natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the soup.
- Celery stalks: Give a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness.
- Russet potato: Creates a creamy texture and helps thicken the broth slightly.
- Diced tomatoes with juice: Introduce a tangy acidity and juicy texture.
- Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and thickens the broth.
- Beef broth: Serves as the savory liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- Dried basil and oregano: Add Mediterranean herbaceous notes to season perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating flavors.
- Green beans: Bring fresh, crisp bites and lovely green color.
- Corn kernels: Inject sweet pops of flavor for pleasant texture contrasts.
- Peas: Add subtle sweetness and body to the soup.
How to Make Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon to create bite-sized pieces. This step builds the rich meatiness that forms the backbone of your soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat, then toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté together until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing fragrant aromas that are impossible to resist.
Step 2: Add Root Vegetables and Tomatoes
Next, stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. These hearty veggies add texture and natural sweetness while absorbing the deep flavors developing in the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by tomato sauce and hearty beef broth. This combination will create a luscious, savory base that feels both rustic and comforting.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. These herbs bring just the right herbal warmth and enhance all the other flavors. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer uncovered. Let it bubble away for about 25 to 30 minutes, enough time for the potatoes and carrots to turn tender and the soup to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the Green Beans, Corn, and Peas
Once your soup’s heartier vegetables are tender, fold in the green beans, corn kernels, and peas. These veggies only need a short cooking time to become perfectly tender and to maintain bright colors. Let everything cook together for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjust
Before ladling your soup into bowls, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the entire dish. Now, your Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe is ready to be shared and savored!
How to Serve Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh touch, consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or shredded Parmesan over each bowl. These simple garnishes add color and an extra layer of flavor that feels homemade and inviting. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the broth for a lively finish.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping into every savory spoonful. For a lighter accompaniment, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s heartiness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-friendly twist, serve the soup in bread bowls. Hollowed-out sourdough loaves hold the soup beautifully and add an edible element to the meal. You can also offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips on the side, inviting your guests to customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent any flavors from mingling with other foods.
Freezing
This soup is a fabulous make-ahead meal because it freezes beautifully. Cool the soup completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Reheating
When you’re ready for a comforting bowl, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If reheating from fresh leftovers, simply heat on low to medium until hot, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe if you want a lighter option. Just brown the meat thoroughly, and follow the same steps. The soup may have a slightly milder flavor but still be delicious.
Is this soup suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, this Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully and tastes even better the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and reheat gently for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in veggies like zucchini, cabbage, or bell peppers depending on what you have on hand. Just add any more delicate vegetables closer to the end of the cooking time to keep them from getting mushy.
How thick or thin should the soup be?
The soup should have a slightly thick but broth-y consistency, rich with tender vegetables and ground beef bits. If it feels too thick, add a splash of extra beef broth or water while reheating to achieve your preferred texture.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add the green beans, corn, and peas during the last 30 minutes to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, balancing hearty protein with wholesome vegetables and warm herbs. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big hug after a long day, and best of all, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients. Dive in and enjoy the cozy, welcoming flavors that make this soup a true family favorite.
Print
Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal featuring tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner and freezer-friendly to enjoy later, this American classic is packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned
- 1 cup peas, frozen
Canned Goods and Broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed to keep the soup lean.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Root Vegetables: Stir in chopped carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Mix well to combine all the flavors before adding liquids.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to season the soup thoroughly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in green beans, corn, and peas. Continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes, until these vegetables are heated through but still retain some texture.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy a wholesome meal.
Notes
- This soup freezes well and often tastes better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Feel free to substitute the vegetables with zucchini, cabbage, or other seasonal veggies.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked pasta or rice just before serving.
