Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
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If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, it has to be this Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. It brings together tender chunks of beef, fresh garden vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a rich, flavorful broth that’s both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re craving comfort on a chilly day or just want to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas, this soup is an all-time favorite that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. It’s simple to make, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in building a balanced flavor, texture, and color palette. From the savory beef to the vibrant veggies, every component contributes something special to the pot.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is essential for browning the beef and adding a subtle richness to the base of the soup.
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star protein that makes this soup hearty and satisfying with every tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Perfectly seasons the beef and vegetables for a well-rounded taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right level of warmth and depth to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that melts beautifully into the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with an aromatic punch that lifts the whole dish.
- 3 carrots, sliced: Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Bring a refreshing crunch and earthy notes that balance the meat.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Make the soup more filling and give it a creamy texture when simmered.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice: Introduce a tangy brightness and beautiful red hue to the broth.
- 6 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together seamlessly.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut: Add a fresh snap and a lovely green color.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): Bring bursts of sweetness and a pop of yellow that’s delightful in every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herby earthiness that enhances the beef’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly minty flavor to balance the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: Steeps slowly releasing a complex aroma that deepens the soup’s taste.
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef stew meat generously with salt and black pepper, then brown it in batches. This process locks in the juices and develops a beautiful caramelized flavor that forms the base of your soup. Once browned, set the beef aside to rest while you prepare the aromatics.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same pot with those wonderful browned bits, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring often so they don’t burn. This step builds depth and sweetness that will enhance the overall flavor of your Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients and Simmer
Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the sliced carrots, celery, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Stir in the dried thyme, dried basil, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, reduce the heat, and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes, allowing the beef to tenderize and the vegetables to soak up all those beautiful flavors.
Step 4: Add Green Beans and Corn
After the initial simmer, stir in the green beans and corn kernels. Then keep the soup simmering uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This final cooking phase ensures the green beans stay vibrant and crisp-tender, while the corn adds a sweet crunch. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving to avoid any surprises in texture or taste.
How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few torn basil leaves on top instantly brightens the presentation and adds a fresh herbal note. For an extra touch of creamy indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of plain yogurt is a fantastic addition that complements the rich broth beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that savory broth. If you want something lighter, serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette that contrasts nicely with the warmth of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, then place them under the broiler just long enough to melt and brown the cheese delightfully. You can also serve the soup over cooked rice or barley for a comforting twist that turns it into an even heartier meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead or enjoy as easy lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
Because this soup freezes beautifully, it’s perfect for batch cooking. To freeze, portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some headspace in the containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If the broth has thickened, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Absolutely! Using ground beef is a great shortcut if you want a quicker version of this Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. Just brown the ground beef thoroughly and cook it through before adding the vegetables and broth.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth. It’s a comforting and safe option for those avoiding gluten in their diet.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything tender but not mushy.
How spicy is this soup?
This Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is mild and very adaptable. If you enjoy some heat, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste either during cooking or at the table.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if I want it heartier?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few pieces of the cooked potato directly in the pot or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water during the last few minutes of cooking. This will give you that extra comforting body you might desire.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about a Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe that warms your soul and fills your home with love. I truly encourage you to dive in and make this recipe your own — it’s easy, nourishing, and serves as a wonderful reminder that the best meals are often the simplest, made with care and shared with those you cherish. Happy cooking!
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Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Vegetable Beef Soup combines tender beef stew meat with a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful beef broth. Perfect for a comforting meal on chilly days, this American classic is easy to prepare on the stovetop and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then brown it in the pot, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same pot and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the beef for extra flavor.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Return the beef to the pot, then add the sliced carrots, celery, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Stir in dried thyme, dried basil, and the bay leaf.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer gently for 45 minutes, allowing the beef and vegetables to tenderize and flavors to meld.
- Add Green Beans and Corn: After the initial simmer, add the green beans and corn kernels to the pot. Continue to simmer uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and the beef is fully cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the beef stew meat with ground beef for a quicker cooking time.
- This soup freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste and add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American