0 Shares

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bowl of vegetable beef soup simmering on the stove. When I whip up my Mom’s old-fashioned version, the aroma of tender beef mingling with the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables transports me right back to my childhood kitchen. This isn’t just any soup; it’s rich, hearty comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug on chilly evenings.

Perfect for those busy weeknights or relaxing weekends, this easy soup recipe can be prepared on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, making it a versatile choice for any home cook. Every spoonful offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, with chunks of savory beef and a colorful medley of veggies that come together to create a dish that feels like a treasured family heirloom. Join me as we dive into a recipe that promises to bring a little nostalgia and a lot of comfort to your dinner table.

Why is Vegetable Beef Soup so comforting?

Warmth and Nostalgia: Each bowl of this soup immerses you in memories of family gatherings and cozy nights.
Hearty Ingredients: Filled with tender beef and colorful vegetables, it hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose a slow cooker or stovetop, this easy soup recipe adapts to your schedule.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you full and satisfied.
Quick Prep Time: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters!

Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients

For the Beef

Pot Roast – The main protein source; substitute with shredded leftover beef or stew meat for quicker prep.

For the Vegetables

Russet Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture; you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture.
Frozen Seasoning Blend – Acts as a flavor base (usually onions, celery, and peppers); fresh chopped onions can be substituted if desired.
Frozen Peas – Contributes sweetness and color; fresh peas can be used when in season.
Frozen Green Beans – Provides crunch and nutrition; fresh green beans work great as a substitute.
Frozen Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; canned corn can replace frozen if necessary.
Carrots – Offers natural sweetness and nutrition; try using rainbow carrots for a pop of color.

For the Soup Base

Beef Broth – Creates the soup’s base; low-sodium broth can be used for a healthier option.
Tomato Soup – Adds a rich flavor and color; crushed tomatoes can substitute for a less sweet flavor.
Water – Dilutes the tomato soup for the desired consistency; adjust as per your preference for thickness.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust to taste during cooking.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare yourself for a heartwarming experience with this delicious Vegetable Beef Soup!

How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup

Prepare Beef: Season your pot roast generously with salt and pepper, then place it in the slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until it’s tender enough to shred.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil and sauté the carrots along with the frozen seasoning blend. Cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded beef to the pot, then toss in the russet potatoes, remaining frozen vegetables, the rest of the beef broth, tomato soup, and an ample amount of water. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Bring your soup mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally and adding more water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Vegetable Beef Soup is a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and season the pot roast up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, just cook the beef in the slow cooker as directed and sauté your prepped veggies. To save even more time, the entire soup can be made ahead and stored, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully—perfect for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving for a cozy, warming meal that feels just as delicious as the day it was made!

What to Serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Transform your comforting bowl of soup into an inviting meal with these delightful pairings that will warm hearts and fill bellies.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping, soaking up all the delicious broth, and adding a satisfying crunch.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread complements the hearty soup beautifully, providing an aromatic twist to each bite.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the warm, rich flavors of the soup, balancing the meal perfectly.
Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy cheese biscuits are comforting and pair wonderfully with the soup, making every spoonful even more indulgent.
Rice or Quinoa: Serving rice or quinoa on the side allows for a nutritious element that complements the soup’s hearty textures and adds extra fiber.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that melds beautifully with the light broth, providing a cozy experience.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine pairs harmoniously with your Vegetable Beef Soup, enhancing its rich flavors and offering a touch of elegance.
Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie would end your meal on a sweet note, bringing nostalgia and warmth to the table.

Expert Tips for Vegetable Beef Soup

Choosing the Right Beef: Opt for pot roast as it becomes beautifully tender during cooking. Avoid lean cuts which can dry out.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for at least an hour. It enhances the flavors and achieves that rich, comforting taste you love.
Mix Fresh and Frozen: While frozen vegetables are convenient, incorporating some fresh produce can boost flavor and texture, creating a heartier Vegetable Beef Soup.
Adjust the Thickness: If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water. For a thicker consistency, an extra can of tomato soup works wonders.
Season to Your Taste: Don’t forget to adjust the salt and pepper as it cooks. Tasting along the way ensures it’s perfectly seasoned.

How to Store and Freeze Vegetable Beef Soup

Fridge: Store leftover vegetable beef soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Cooling Tips: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can affect texture and flavor.

Vegetable Beef Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with your soup and make it your own! Each twist adds a delightful new touch to this comforting classic.

Ground Beef: Swap half the pot roast for ground beef for a different taste and a comforting texture.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh bay leaves or thyme while simmering for an extra layer of aromatic flavor. Just remember to discard bay leaves before serving!
Additional Veggies: Make the soup your own by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper for a gentle kick, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
Beans for Protein: Stir in a can of kidney beans or black beans to amp up the protein and add some heartiness to the dish.
Creamy Texture: For a richer soup, blend in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half right before serving to create a creamy delight.
Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with riced cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb version that retains amazing flavor.
Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika to infuse a subtle smokiness that will elevate every spoonful.

Mix and match these variations to find your perfect bowl of vegetable beef soup!

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for Vegetable Beef Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using pot roast since it becomes wonderfully tender during cooking and adds richness to your soup. Avoid using lean cuts, as they can dry out easily. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to substitute with shredded leftover beef or stew meat for quicker prep.

How should I store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup?
Make sure to store leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to bring back that delightful consistency.

Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup?
Very! Portion your soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

What can I substitute for frozen vegetables in the soup?
Of course! While I love the convenience of frozen vegetables, you can certainly use fresh ones instead. Fresh peas, green beans, or carrots can enhance the texture and flavor of your soup. If using fresh, just be aware that they may cook quicker than their frozen counterparts, so add them accordingly!

Can I add or change the vegetables in this soup?
The more the merrier! This recipe is very flexible – you can add seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, or swap out any of the original veggies for your favorites. Feel free to experiment based on what you have at home or what’s in season!

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup is too thick for your liking, you can simply stir in more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, adding an extra can of tomato soup will also thicken it up beautifully and enrich the flavor. Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl!