Easy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

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There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort to your day. This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s an incredibly easy, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights, offering hearty ingredients in every delicious spoonful. Get ready for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love, packed with wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

This comforting Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a true lifesaver for busy households, combining convenience with incredible taste.

• Quick and easy to prepare: You can have this delicious soup on the table in under an hour.
• Budget-friendly ingredients: It uses common pantry staples and affordable fresh produce.
• A complete one-pot meal: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Reheats wonderfully as leftovers: Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner for days to come.
• Freezes perfectly for meal prep: Prepare a big batch and store portions for future busy evenings.
• Packed with wholesome vegetables: A fantastic way to get your daily dose of healthy veggies.
• Comforting and satisfying for the whole family: This hearty soup is always a crowd-pleaser, especially on a chilly day.

Ingredients

This simple yet flavorful Ground Beef Vegetable Soup relies on a mix of fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the robust taste. Gather your components and get ready to cook!

• For the Soup Base:
  • 1 teaspoon Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil works best for flavor.
  • 1 White Onion, diced: Adds a foundational aromatic sweetness.
  • 1 Pound Ground Beef, 90/10: Lean ground beef helps minimize excess fat.
  • 2 Cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for a pungent, aromatic depth.
  • 1 Cup Carrots, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 Cup Celery, diced: A classic mirepoix component, adding earthy notes.
  • 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor for umami richness.
• For the Broth & Heartiness:
  • 2 Russet Potatoes, medium, peeled and chopped: These potatoes break down slightly to naturally thicken the soup.
  • 8 Cups Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the overall saltiness.
  • 28 oz Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds a lovely smoky depth that elevates the flavor.
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory, meaty notes of the soup.
  • 1 Bay Leaf: Infuses a subtle, herbaceous aroma as the soup simmers.
• For the Finishing Touch:
  • 3 Cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A convenient blend often includes corn, peas, and green beans.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A versatile blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to your taste preference, always tasting as you go.
  • Black Pepper, to taste: Freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor.
  • ¼ Cup Parsley, freshly chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.

Notes & Substitutions

You have flexibility with many of these ingredients. If you can’t find a specific item, or want to customize, here are some ideas.

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a richer flavor, just be sure to drain more fat. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Broth: Vegetable broth works if you are out of beef, or use bouillon cubes dissolved in water. Homemade beef broth adds incredible depth.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap frozen mixed vegetables for fresh. Add extra zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work, though russets offer the best natural thickening.
• Seasoning: A pinch of dried thyme or a dash of paprika can also be added for extra flavor.

Equipment

Having the right tools makes cooking this hearty soup a breeze. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen.

• Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot: Essential for one-pot cooking, providing even heat distribution.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For safely and efficiently preparing your vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy for all your liquid and dry ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients and browning the ground beef.
• Colander: Used for thoroughly draining any excess fat from the cooked ground beef.

Instructions

Creating this comforting Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious meal every time. Take your time with each stage to build incredible flavor.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat one teaspoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced white onion, ground beef, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the ground beef is no longer pink and the vegetables begin to soften. This browning step is crucial for developing deep flavor in your soup. After cooking, carefully drain any excess fat from the pot using a colander or by tilting the pot and spooning out the fat. Returning the browned beef and softened aromatics to the pot will be the foundation for your flavorful soup.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

With the ground beef browned and fat drained, it’s time to deepen the flavor profile. Stir in the tablespoon of tomato paste, ensuring it mixes well with the meat and vegetables. Cook the tomato paste for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps to intensify its flavor. Next, add the chopped russet potatoes, eight cups of beef broth, the entire can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained), one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: First Simmer

Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, ensuring it maintains a gentle simmer. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes. This initial simmer allows the potatoes to begin softening and the flavors to meld together, setting the stage for a truly delicious ground beef and vegetable soup.

Step 4: Add Remaining Vegetables and Seasonings

After the initial 10-minute simmer, remove the lid. Stir in the three cups of frozen mixed vegetables. These frozen vegetables are convenient and cook quickly. Next, add the one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, one teaspoon of salt, and black pepper to taste. Give the soup another good stir to ensure all the new ingredients are well incorporated and the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the broth.

Step 5: Second Simmer

Return the lid to the pot and continue to simmer the soup on low heat. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork. The vegetables should also be tender-crisp. This longer simmer ensures all the flavors have fully developed and the hearty ingredients are cooked perfectly. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf from the pot. Ladle generous portions of the hot, comforting ground beef vegetable soup into individual bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve your delightful soup immediately with your favorite accompaniments. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!

Pro Tips for Success

Making your Ground Beef Vegetable Soup truly exceptional is easy with a few simple tricks. These tips will help you achieve maximum flavor and perfect texture every time you cook.

• Concentrate Flavors: Don’t rush the simmering. A longer, gentle simmer allows the ingredients to meld and deepen the broth’s richness. Aim for at least 30 minutes total simmering time.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt can sometimes bring out hidden flavors.
• Browning Beef: Ensure the ground beef gets a good sear and a golden-brown crust. Understanding the science behind browning, known as the Maillard reaction, reveals how these rich flavors develop. This caramelization adds a crucial layer of savory flavor to the entire soup.
• Potato Consistency: To prevent mushy potatoes, ensure they are chopped relatively uniformly. Don’t overcook the soup once the potatoes are tender.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are great for simmering, a garnish of fresh parsley or thyme at the end adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations

This versatile Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is perfect on its own, but also shines when paired with simple sides. It’s excellent for meal prep too.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast.
• Homemade cornbread is a classic, comforting pairing that many families love.
• Enjoy it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic and satisfying meal.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat portions on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, or microwave in individual servings. Add a splash of broth if it seems too thick.
• Freezing: For optimal quality and safety, the USDA provides detailed guidelines on how to properly freeze cooked foods. This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Swaps: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground for a leaner soup. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add extra beans.
• Vegetable Additions: Customize your soup with extra corn, peas, green beans, or even some fresh spinach or kale stirred in during the last few minutes. Zucchini or bell peppers are also great additions.
• Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker broth, mash a portion of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) at the end.
• Spice Level: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a small amount of cayenne pepper along with the Italian seasoning.
• Pasta Integration: Stir in small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition Information

This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and hearty meal, offering a good balance of macronutrients. Please remember these values are approximate.

Nutrition information is an estimate based on ingredients used and may vary. Values are per serving (1.5 cups).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions about making this delightful Ground Beef Vegetable Soup.

• Can ground beef vegetable soup be made in the slow cooker?
  Yes, absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first for best flavor. Then, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
• How do I thicken the broth?
  The russet potatoes naturally release starch and thicken the soup. For extra thickness, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.
• Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
  Yes, ground chicken or turkey are suitable substitutes, offering a leaner option. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious and wholesome.
• What kind of potatoes work best?
  Russet potatoes are ideal because their starch helps thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used, but they hold their shape more and contribute less to thickening.
• Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
  Absolutely! Just ensure they are chopped to a similar size as the frozen mix for even cooking. Add heartier fresh vegetables like carrots and celery earlier, and softer ones like zucchini closer to the end.

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a true culinary gem, perfect for any busy home cook. It’s incredibly easy to make, remarkably hearty, and bursting with rich, comforting flavors. The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Give this flavorful soup a try for your next weeknight meal. We can’t wait to hear how much you love it! Please share your feedback or any favorite soup variations in the comments below.

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Easy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

This comforting Easy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is packed with savory ground beef, a medley of fresh and frozen vegetables, and rich beef broth. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that comes together quickly for a delicious dinner.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon Olive Oil
• 1 White Onion diced
• 1 Pound Ground Beef 90/10
• 2 Cloves Garlic minced
• 1 Cup Carrots sliced
• 1 Cup Celery diced
• 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
• 2 Russet Potatoes medium, peeled and chopped
• 8 Cups Beef Broth
• 28 oz Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 3 Cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• Black Pepper to taste
• ¼ Cup Parsley freshly chopped

Equipment

• Large Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Spatula/Spoon

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Heat olive oil in a large dutch oven, then brown the onion, ground beef, garlic, carrots, and celery until no pink remains, draining any excess fat.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes, ensuring it's well combined with the meat mixture.
3. Add the chopped potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, seasoning, and bay leaf to the pot.
4. Cover and simmer the soup for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 15-20 minutes more, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, ideally with crusty sourdough bread.

Notes

Serve this hearty soup with crusty sourdough bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.