Vegetable Beef Soup is a heartwarming bowl filled with tender pieces of beef, colorful veggies like carrots, potatoes, and green beans, all simmered together in a rich broth. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, comforting and full of flavor without being complicated. The mix of fresh vegetables and savory beef makes it both healthy and satisfying.
I love making this soup because it’s so easy to customize. Sometimes I add a bit of garlic or a touch of tomato paste to give it extra depth, and other times I throw in whatever veggies I have left in the fridge. It’s a great way to use up ingredients and still create a delicious meal. Plus, it fills the whole house with a wonderful aroma that makes everyone hungry.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, whether I’m having it alone or sharing with family. The leftovers taste even better the next day, which makes it a great make-ahead meal. Vegetable Beef Soup is one of those simple dishes that feels like home every time I eat it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the heart of the soup. Use chuck roast or brisket cut into cubes for great flavor and tenderness. If you want a leaner option, try sirloin tips or even ground beef.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans give this soup texture and color. You can swap green beans for peas or add corn for a sweet touch. Fresh or frozen work well here.
Broth & Tomato Sauce: Beef broth builds a rich base, while tomato sauce adds a bit of tang. If you want a lighter soup, chicken broth or vegetable broth can replace beef broth. You can also use diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce.
Herbs & Seasonings: Thyme, parsley, and bay leaf add classic flavor. Fresh herbs are great if you have them, but dried ones work just fine. Feel free to add a pinch of rosemary or oregano for a slightly different taste.
How Do You Get Tender Beef and Flavorful Soup?
The secret to tender beef is browning and slow simmering:
- Brown the beef: Don’t skip this step. It locks in flavor and adds color. Use medium-high heat and don’t crowd the pan.
- Simmer low and slow: Once all ingredients are added, keep the heat low and cook gently. This breaks down the meat, making it tender and juicy.
- Don’t rush the veggies: Add them after the beef is tender so they stay firm but cooked through.
Following these steps results in a rich, hearty soup where each bite has perfectly cooked beef and vegetables.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed soup pot – I prefer this because it heats evenly and helps prevent burning.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping the vegetables and meat easily and safely.
- Wooden spoon or ladle – for stirring the soup and serving easily without scratching the pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the seasonings and liquids just right for the best flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap green beans for peas or corn—these add a different sweetness and color to the soup.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale near the end of cooking for a boost of greens.
- Use different herbs like rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce or 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this soup ready takes about 15 minutes of prep, plus about 1 hour and 30 minutes of cooking and simmering. Most of the time is hands-off while the soup slowly cooks to tender perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook, turning as needed, until all sides are nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside for now.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add your chopped onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until it smells fragrant.
3. Add Beef and Liquids:
Put the browned beef back into the pot. Pour in the beef broth, water, and tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes). Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Turn the heat up to bring your soup to a boil, then reduce it to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and cooked through.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the carrots, potatoes, green beans, and celery. Cover the pot again and simmer for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
6. Final Touches:
Take out the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if you need to. Stir well.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice, fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy, homemade Vegetable Beef Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown properly and cook evenly in the soup.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender.
How Long Will Leftovers Stay Fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add veggies like corn, peas, zucchini, or spinach. Add softer vegetables like spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
