There’s something truly timeless about a simmering pot of old fashioned vegetable beef soup. I still remember coming home from school on cold afternoons to the smell of it bubbling away on the stove, its savory scent wrapping the whole house in warmth. This soup is more than just a meal, it’s comfort, nourishment, and nostalgia in every bite. The beauty of this old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is in its simplicity and heartiness. It fits just about any occasion, whether you need a wholesome weeknight dinner, a filling meal-prep option, or something to freeze for busy days ahead. It’s budget-friendly, loaded with nutrition, and made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables you likely already have on hand.
If you’re craving a satisfying soup that’s rich in flavor but easy on the prep, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. One pot, one hour, and a house filled with the scent of slow-cooked goodness, that’s what this old school recipe promises.
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Why This Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it’s built on flavor layering and flexibility. Browning the beef before simmering adds depth to the broth, while a medley of colorful vegetables creates a naturally sweet and earthy taste. Instead of relying on canned soup bases or seasoning packets, we develop every note from scratch, and it shows.
The broth becomes rich and savory thanks to slow simmering, allowing the beef to tenderize and the vegetables to soak up flavor. The potatoes break down slightly, giving a light natural thickening to the soup without any flour or starch.
What makes this recipe really work for home cooks is its adaptability. Don’t have green beans? Use peas. Want to sneak in kale or swap beef for ground turkey? No problem. This old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe can easily be customized based on seasonal produce, dietary preferences, or what’s in your pantry.
Here are a few tweaks to consider:
- Low sodium version: Use unsalted broth and skip the added salt until the end.
- Gluten free: It’s naturally gluten free if your broth is certified as such.
- Slow cooker option: Brown the beef and then toss all ingredients in the slow cooker for an easy set-it-and-forget-it version.
- Freezer friendly: This soup freezes very well. Just let it cool and store in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Whether you follow the classic version or make it your own, the soul of the dish remains the same, deeply comforting, nourishing, and packed with flavor.
Recipe Card
Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
6-8
servings20
minutes2
hours280
kcalThis old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is a heartwarming classic, made with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will fill your home with comfort and warmth. A perfect meal for chilly days!
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Ingredients
1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
4 cups beef broth
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef stew meat and brown on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the Soup: Add beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, green beans, and corn. Stir in thyme and oregano. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Beef Choice: For best results, use stew meat that is marbled with fat. This gives the soup a rich and hearty flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have available, such as adding peas, zucchini, or parsnips for a different twist.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Beef Broth Substitute: You can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor or don’t have beef broth on hand.
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Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Use the Right Cut of Beef: Choose beef stew meat or chuck roast for a tender, flavorful result. The marbled fat adds richness to the broth and helps make the beef tender after a long simmer. Avoid lean cuts of beef, which can end up dry.
- Simmer Slowly for Flavor: The key to a rich broth is a slow simmer. Allow the soup to cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, which will break down the beef and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor. Don’t rush it; the longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
- Balance the Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to adjust the veggies according to your preferences. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to swap in root vegetables like turnips or parsnips, or even add spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Layer the Seasoning: Start with a simple base of salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. As the soup cooks, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Adding salt in stages helps prevent the soup from becoming too salty early on.
- Add Pasta or Rice for Extra Comfort: For an even heartier version, you can add small pasta shapes or cooked rice toward the end of cooking. This turns the soup into a complete, filling meal.
Delicious Variants to Try
1. Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
Perfect for busy days. After browning the beef, toss everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5. The texture will be velvety and the flavors incredibly well developed.
2. Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Want a quicker option? Use ground beef instead of stew meat. It cooks faster and gives the soup a slightly different but still delicious flavor. Brown the meat thoroughly and drain excess fat before adding other ingredients.
3. Barley Vegetable Beef Soup
Add half a cup of pearl barley in the last hour of cooking for a thicker, more rustic soup. The barley soaks up the broth beautifully and makes the soup even more filling.
4. Spicy Kick Version
Add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of crushed red pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to bring a little heat. This version is great with a side of cornbread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes! While beef is traditional in this recipe, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat’s texture and size.
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. After it has cooled, portion it into airtight containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and simmer on the stovetop.
Yes, beans are a great addition to old fashioned beef vegetable soup. Add a can of kidney beans, navy beans, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and more heartiness.
For a complete meal, serve this soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or even cornbread to soak up all the savory goodness. A dollop of sour cream or grated cheese on top makes it even more comforting.
Health Benefits of Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Rich in Protein: The beef provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune system support. Protein also keeps you feeling full longer.
- Packed with Vegetables: This soup is loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and peas, offering vitamins A, C, and K. These vegetables support eye health, immune function, and bone health.
- Supports Digestion: The high fiber content from the vegetables aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Fiber also helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of heart disease.
- Low in Fat: By using lean cuts of beef and trimming off excess fat, this soup is relatively low in fat, making it a heart-healthy option for those monitoring their fat intake.
- Hydration and Detox: The broth, which is rich in water and minerals, helps keep you hydrated while providing essential electrolytes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
A Hug in a Bowl
There’s a reason this old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe has stood the test of time. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or stashing it away for easy weeknight meals, it never fails to deliver warmth and comfort.
I love how one pot brings together so much flavor without fuss. It’s a reminder that wholesome cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. With pantry staples, seasonal vegetables, and a bit of love, you’ve got a soup that’s both nourishing and nostalgic.
If you enjoyed this old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe, you might also love our Pineapple Stuffing Recipe, a sweet and salty holiday treat that’s perfect for family gatherings!
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