There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup. It’s hearty, comforting, and brings everyone together, especially on a chilly day. One dish that never fails to satisfy is ground beef vegetable soup. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a meal that nourishes your body and soul. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this crowd-pleasing soup at home.
Why Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Is a Must-Try
Imagine the aroma of simmering vegetables mingling with the savory richness of perfectly browned ground beef. This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition, versatility, and heartiness, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
To make this delectable soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce, pantry staples, and a little bit of love. Below is the full list of ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Ground beef | 2 pounds |
| Carrots, diced | 4 |
| Celery ribs, chopped | 4 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Potatoes, peeled and cubed | 4 (1-inch pieces) |
| Whole kernel corn (drained) | 1 (15.25 oz) can |
| Green beans (drained) | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Peas (undrained) | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Tomato sauce | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Whole tomatoes, crushed | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Bay leaf | 1 or more to taste |
| Ground thyme | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Water | ¼ cup (as needed) |
These simple ingredients come together to create a masterpiece.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Here’s how to turn these ingredients into a comforting pot of soup:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Start by crumbling the ground beef into a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook and stir for 7–10 minutes, or until the beef is evenly browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
2. Soften the Vegetables
Add the diced carrots, chopped celery, and onion to the pot with the cooked beef. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and their natural sweetness begins to shine through.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients
Next, stir in the potatoes, corn, green beans, peas (including the liquid), tomato sauce, and crushed whole tomatoes. Season generously with ground black pepper, add the bay leaf, and sprinkle in the ground thyme.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Pour in ¼ cup of water to adjust the consistency. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more as needed to prevent the soup from drying out.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the potatoes are tender, your soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the rich, flavorful blend of ground beef and vegetables. Pair it with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
To elevate your soup-making experience, here are some expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables add a burst of flavor and nutrients.
- Experiment with Spices: Customize the soup by adding garlic, paprika, or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time when cooking.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Why This Soup Is Great for Any Occasion
Ground beef vegetable soup is a chameleon in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a comforting dinner, it’s got you covered. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it satisfying on its own or paired with simple sides like salad or rolls.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
This soup is more than just comfort food—it’s packed with nutrients:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
| Protein | Promotes muscle repair and growth |
| Fiber | Supports digestion and gut health |
| Vitamins (A & C) | Boosts immunity and eye health |
| Potassium | Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels |
| Iron | Supports oxygen transport in the body |
Creative Variations to Try
Make this recipe your own with these fun variations:
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, diced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cumin.
- Italian Twist: Substitute thyme for basil and oregano, and stir in a handful of pasta.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
Storing and Reheating Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Storing: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.
FAQs About Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and save time on prep. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced chili peppers to the soup for a spicy kick.
3. Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and soften the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
4. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
Mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
5. Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option that works just as well.
6. What sides go well with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad are perfect accompaniments.
Final Thoughts: Time to Savor the Flavor
Ground beef vegetable soup is a true gem, offering a delightful mix of taste, nutrition, and simplicity. It’s a recipe that warms hearts and fills stomachs, making it a staple for any kitchen.
Now it’s your turn to bring this delicious dish to life. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the magic of homemade soup. Bon appétit!
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Ground Beef Vegetable Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Your Table
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Warm up with a bowl of hearty, flavorful Ground Beef Vegetable Soup. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting dish combines savory ground beef with vibrant vegetables for a nourishing meal that satisfies every time. Quick to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 4 carrots, diced
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed (1-inch pieces)
- 1 (15.25 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can green beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can peas, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can whole tomatoes, crushed
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 or more bay leaves, to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon ground thyme
- ¼ cup water (as needed)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, crumble and cook ground beef for 7–10 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Soften the Vegetables:
- Add diced carrots, chopped celery, and onion to the pot with the cooked beef. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in potatoes, corn, green beans, peas (including liquid), tomato sauce, and crushed whole tomatoes. Season with ground black pepper, bay leaf, and ground thyme.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Pour in ¼ cup of water to adjust consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add water if needed to maintain desired thickness.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once potatoes are tender, serve hot in bowls. Pair with crusty bread or your favorite side for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic, a dash of paprika, or a pinch of chili powder.
- To thicken the soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
- This soup freezes beautifully; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
