Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef – Easy & Hearty Soup

ByBella Skye
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Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Vegetable soup with ground beef is a classic comfort dish that combines hearty protein with a medley of fresh, colorful vegetables. The rich, savory flavor of browned ground beef forms the perfect base for tender carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. This soup is beloved not just for its taste, but also for its balance of nutrition and warmth. Each spoonful offers a satisfying combination of textures from the tender vegetables to the succulent ground beef making it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and leisurely family meals.

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Beyond its comforting flavors, vegetable soup with ground beef is celebrated for its simplicity and accessibility. It’s a dish that can be prepared quickly, yet tastes as though it has been simmered for hours, delivering depth and richness with minimal effort. This soup exemplifies the beauty of homemade dishes: wholesome ingredients transformed into a satisfying, heartwarming meal. Perfectly suited for meal prep, freezer-friendly portions, or a warm dinner on a cold day, it’s easy to see why this recipe remains a favorite in homes around the world. With the right combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic seasonings, and careful cooking techniques, you can create a soup that’s not only delicious but also nourishing, versatile, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable soup with ground beef recipe is a home cook’s dream for several reasons:

  • Rich, Savory Flavor: The browned ground beef releases deep umami notes, complementing the natural sweetness of vegetables.
  • Hearty and Satisfying: Each bowl contains a generous mix of vegetables and beef, creating a filling meal that doubles as comfort food.
  • Versatile and Flexible: You can adjust vegetables, broth, and seasoning according to your pantry or seasonal produce.
  • Quick Enough for Weeknights: Although deeply flavorful, this recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes for a fast, wholesome dinner, fitting right into 30 minute soup recipes.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors develop even more after sitting overnight, making it ideal for meal prep and easy lunches.

Chef insight: By browning the ground beef properly and layering flavors with sautéed aromatics and fresh herbs, you elevate this humble soup into something remarkable, akin to homemade vegetable beef soup that rivals any restaurant’s comfort food.

Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 6 generous bowls

This timing ensures the vegetables are tender but retain slight texture, while the ground beef remains juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 6 cups beef broth (or low-sodium for healthier option)
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Substitution Notes:

  • Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter version.
  • Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation.
  • Any seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, can be swapped according to preference.
Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Step-by-Step Instructions

hot soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Browning the beef creates a rich foundation for the soup and ensures a robust flavor.

hot soup

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step releases the aromatic oils that elevate the depth of flavor in your beef soup recipes.

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Step 3: Add Root Vegetables

Add carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir for 2 minutes to coat the vegetables in the beef and oil mixture. This brief sauté helps the vegetables absorb the flavors while maintaining some texture.

hot soup

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine everything evenly. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, oregano, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer gently.

hot soup

Step 5: Add Remaining Vegetables

After 15 minutes of simmering, add green beans, zucchini, and corn. Continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes until all vegetables are tender. Adjust salt and black pepper according to taste. At this stage, the soup is developing the comforting, hearty flavor that makes it an excellent vegetable soup with ground beef.

hot soup

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Your soup is now ready to serve, piping hot and full of layered flavors reminiscent of homemade vegetable beef soup.

How to Serve

Serving vegetable soup with ground beef is not just about portioning it into a bowl it’s an opportunity to enhance both the presentation and the overall dining experience. Start by ladling the hot soup into wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the hearty ground beef. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, chives, or thyme on top immediately brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal aroma. For an added touch of richness, a small drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan can elevate the soup’s flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing the soup with complementary sides can turn a simple meal into a full dining experience. Serve it with warm, crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or soft dinner rolls for dipping. A light side salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory soup. For a heartier option, a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of cheesy focaccia makes a comforting accompaniment, perfect for family dinners or lunch gatherings. You can also serve the soup alongside roasted vegetables or a baked potato for a more substantial, balanced meal.

Presentation matters even in casual settings. Use neutral or white bowls to make the colorful vegetables and rich broth pop visually. Arrange the vegetables and ground beef evenly in the bowl to create a balanced, appetizing look. If serving to guests, consider adding a small side of freshly grated cheese, a lemon wedge for a hint of acidity, or a few crisp croutons for added texture. This approach not only enhances the eating experience but also highlights the care and effort put into preparing homemade dishes. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering, serving vegetable soup with ground beef thoughtfully ensures it looks as good as it tastes, encouraging everyone to savor each flavorful spoonful.

Additional Tips

  • For maximum flavor, brown the ground beef in batches if your pot is small.
  • Always add delicate vegetables like zucchini and corn toward the end to avoid overcooking.
  • Use homemade beef broth if possible; it adds natural depth compared to store-bought options.
  • Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Skim the surface occasionally to remove any excess fat for a cleaner broth.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef: Give your soup a zesty twist by adding ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the sauté stage. The spice balances beautifully with the savory beef and naturally sweet vegetables, creating a warming, slightly piquant flavor that makes this variation ideal for chilly evenings or anyone who enjoys a little heat in their meal.
  • Mediterranean-Style Vegetable Beef Soup: Infuse your soup with Mediterranean flair by adding diced bell peppers, a teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking. You can also sprinkle fresh oregano or parsley on top before serving. This version elevates the classic recipe into a bright, aromatic dish reminiscent of homemade Mediterranean vegetable beef soup, perfect for pairing with warm flatbreads or crusty artisan bread.
  • Hearty Grain-Enhanced Soup: Transform this vegetable soup with ground beef into a full, one-pot meal by incorporating grains like ½ cup uncooked barley, farro, or brown rice during the simmering stage. The grains absorb the rich broth while adding an extra layer of texture, making it an excellent option for meal prep or for feeding a larger group. This variation also increases the fiber content, making it even more wholesome and filling.
  • Cheesy Vegetable Beef Soup: For a comforting, indulgent variation, stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese just before serving. The cheese melts into the hot soup, creating creamy pockets of flavor that pair wonderfully with the tender ground beef and vegetables. This twist makes the soup extra kid-friendly while adding richness without overpowering the natural flavors.
  • Sopa de Verduras with Ground Beef (Latin-Inspired): Give your soup a Latin-inspired touch by adding diced sweet potatoes, corn, and a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro. This variation transforms the classic soup into a vibrant, flavorful version of sopa de verduras with ground beef, perfect for pairing with warm tortillas or a side of rice.

These variations allow home cooks to tailor the soup to their taste preferences, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients, while keeping the core essence of vegetable soup with ground beef intact. Each adaptation maintains the hearty, wholesome, and comforting qualities that make this recipe a staple in homemade dishes, making it versatile enough to revisit throughout the year without repetition.

Freezing and Storage

  • Cooling: Let the soup cool completely before storing.
  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers; freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the soup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg

This makes vegetable soup with ground beef a well-rounded meal option that is satisfying yet balanced.

Final Words

Cooking vegetable soup with ground beef at home is a rewarding experience that combines comfort, nutrition, and creativity in one bowl. Unlike store-bought soups, making it yourself allows you to control every ingredient from the quality of the ground beef to the freshness of the vegetables ensuring a wholesome and flavorful result. The rich, savory broth paired with tender vegetables and hearty beef provides a balanced meal that satisfies both the appetite and the soul. This dish is an excellent way to introduce seasonal vegetables into your family’s diet while keeping dinner simple, healthy, and deeply satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the vegetables, spices, or broth to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. By incorporating chef-level techniques like properly browning the beef and layering flavors with aromatic vegetables, you elevate this everyday soup into a gourmet-quality meal that rivals homemade vegetable beef soup from restaurants. It also offers endless opportunities for experimentation adding grains like barley, swapping in different herbs, or giving it a subtle kick with spices so it never becomes repetitive, making it perfect for weekly meal prep or family dinners.

Finally, making this soup at home brings a sense of accomplishment and joy that prepackaged meals can’t match. It’s a dish that fosters connection with your cooking process, encourages mindfulness while preparing ingredients, and rewards you with a meal that feels both hearty and nourishing. Whether you’re serving it fresh for dinner, freezing portions for a busy week, or sharing it with loved ones, vegetable soup with ground beef is more than a recipe it’s an experience that showcases the warmth and care of homemade dishes. Every spoonful reinforces the value of taking time in the kitchen to create meals that comfort, nourish, and bring people together.

FAQ’s

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can replace beef for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.

Add a tablespoon of tomato paste, mashed potatoes, or cooked rice during the simmering stage to thicken the broth naturally.

Absolutely. Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Yes. Brown the ground beef and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Bell peppers, peas, corn, parsnips, or any seasonal vegetables can be substituted. Avoid adding delicate greens too early, as they wilt quickly.

Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef - Easy & Hearty Soup
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Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef – Easy & Hearty Soup

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Soup Recipes
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Calories

280

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 medium potatoes, diced

  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 zucchini, diced

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

  • 6 cups beef broth (or low-sodium for healthier option)

  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

  • In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Browning the beef creates a rich foundation for the soup and ensures a robust flavor.
  • Lower the heat to medium. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step releases the aromatic oils that elevate the depth of flavor in your beef soup recipes.
  • Add carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir for 2 minutes to coat the vegetables in the beef and oil mixture. This brief sauté helps the vegetables absorb the flavors while maintaining some texture.
  • Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine everything evenly. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, oregano, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer gently.
  • After 15 minutes of simmering, add green beans, zucchini, and corn. Continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes until all vegetables are tender. Adjust salt and black pepper according to taste. At this stage, the soup is developing the comforting, hearty flavor that makes it an excellent vegetable soup with ground beef.
  • Remove the bay leaf. Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Your soup is now ready to serve, piping hot and full of layered flavors reminiscent of homemade vegetable beef soup.

Notes

  • For maximum flavor, brown the ground beef in batches if your pot is small.
  • Always add delicate vegetables like zucchini and corn toward the end to avoid overcooking.
  • Use homemade beef broth if possible; it adds natural depth compared to store-bought options.
  • Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Skim the surface occasionally to remove any excess fat for a cleaner broth.

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