Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup – Easy & Comforting One-Pot Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and nutritious meal, this Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is the perfect recipe. Packed with lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful herbs, this soup is an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a one-pot dish that requires minimal cleanup.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from step-by-step instructions to cooking tips, variations, and storing methods to ensure your soup is perfect every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, you’ll love how simple yet satisfying this soup is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Loaded with protein and fiber for a well-balanced meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have available.
• Great for Meal Prep: Freezes well for future meals.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this soup rich in flavor and texture:

• 1 pound lean ground beef – Provides hearty protein and flavor.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds a savory base to the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the aroma and taste.
• 4 cups beef broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth.
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – Gives the soup a comforting, starchy thickness.
• 2 carrots, sliced – Brings in natural sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced – Provides a mild crunch and flavor.
• 1 cup frozen green beans – Adds texture and freshness.
• 1 cup frozen peas – Gives a mildly sweet and vibrant element.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A warming herb that complements the beef.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds earthy, Mediterranean notes.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps in sautéing and enriching the taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• Add lean ground beef to the pot.
• Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
• Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

• Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
• Stir to combine everything well.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

• Mix in diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and celery.
• Stir in thyme and oregano for an added depth of flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
• Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 6: Add the Frozen Vegetables

• Stir in frozen green beans and peas.
• Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Season and Serve

• Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Remove from heat and serve hot.
• Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh thyme and oregano add a more intense flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables – Simmer just until tender to maintain texture.
• Swap for Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner protein alternative.
• Boost the Flavor – Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.
• Make it Spicy – Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Variations & Substitutions

• Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.
• Add Grains: Stir in barley or quinoa for a heartier texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms.
• Cheesy Twist: Top with Parmesan or shredded cheddar for extra richness.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.

2. Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?

Absolutely! Add cooked rice or pasta at the end of cooking.

3. How do I make this soup thicker?

Mash a few potatoes in the soup or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

4. Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, but add them in the last 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.

5. What goes well with this soup?

Garlic bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly!

Conclusion

This Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a wholesome, filling, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or a simple family dinner. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and one-pot convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Give this soup a try and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that beats store-bought options any day!

Happy cooking!

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