Unleash the flavors of comfort with this hearty ground beef vegetable soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nutritious pick-me-up, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with deliciousness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines lean ground beef with a rainbow of vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients for ease and convenience.
- Slow simmering enhances the depth of flavors, making every spoonful satisfying.
- Versatile recipe that allows for easy substitutions based on dietary preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Tip: For extra flavor, season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper while browning.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Tip: Don’t rush this step; letting the vegetables soften properly builds the soup’s flavor base.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Tip: If the soup reduces too much, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Incorporate Green Beans
Add the green beans and dried thyme to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still vibrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their ground beef vegetable soup, consider browning the beef in batches to avoid steaming, which can lead to less flavor. Roasting your vegetables before adding them to the soup can also add a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re short on time, frozen vegetables can be a great substitute for fresh, just add them towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness. Lastly, don’t shy away from experimenting with herbs; a bay leaf or some rosemary can introduce a new flavor profile to your soup.
Recipe Variations
- For a low-carb version, substitute the green beans with zucchini or spinach.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Make it creamy by stirring in a half cup of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop even more deeply.
How can I store leftovers?
This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes for the canned ones. Keep in mind that the soup might be slightly less rich, so you may want to add a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra depth.
Summary
This ground beef vegetable soup is a versatile, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a foolproof recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.