Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is the kind of comforting meal that never goes out of style. Packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is filling, nourishing, and simple to prepare. It is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you want a wholesome homemade meal without complicated steps.
This recipe focuses on straightforward ingredients and reliable cooking methods. Everything simmers together in one pot, allowing the flavors to develop naturally. The result is a balanced soup that feels both satisfying and familiar, making it a favorite for families and meal prep alike.
Why Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Is So Popular
One of the biggest reasons vegetable beef soup remains a household staple is its versatility. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables depending on what you have available. The soup adapts easily to seasonal produce and personal preferences.
Another advantage is its budget-friendly nature. A small amount of beef goes a long way when combined with vegetables and broth. Slow simmering helps tenderize the meat while creating deep, comforting flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd or stretching ingredients over multiple meals.
Ingredients
1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 cup corn kernels
1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 ounces)
6 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 bay leaf
Optional additions include peas, zucchini, cabbage, or barley for extra heartiness.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the beef pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides. This step builds flavor and helps seal in moisture. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for several minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add Vegetables
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the remaining oil and flavors from the pot. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes to lightly soften them.
Build the Soup Base
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, pepper, thyme, basil, and bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the beef becomes tender and the flavors blend together.
Add Final Vegetables
Stir in the green beans and corn during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This ensures they remain tender but not overcooked. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
Rest and Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Let the soup rest for a few minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to settle.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is delicious on its own but pairs well with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or cornbread. A simple side salad can add freshness and balance to the meal.
This soup also works well as a make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more satisfying the next day.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more broth or water. For extra richness, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of paprika.
If using tougher cuts of beef, extend the simmering time slightly until the meat is fork-tender.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover vegetable beef soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This soup freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Belongs on Your Table
Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a timeless recipe that delivers warmth, nutrition, and comfort in every bowl. With simple ingredients, one-pot preparation, and endless flexibility, it fits effortlessly into everyday cooking.
Whether served as a family dinner, a meal-prep staple, or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup offers reliable flavor and homemade goodness that never disappoints.