Description
This Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for any time of year. Packed with garden-fresh vegetables and flavorful ground beef, this soup is a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a light summer meal or a warm, comforting bowl for the cooler months, this soup is versatile and delicious.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome and hearty meal that’s easy to make. It’s ideal for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who enjoys a nutritious, vegetable-packed soup. It’s also great for using up garden veggies or frozen vegetables from your freezer.
Why it’s Great
- Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with vegetables and lean ground beef, this soup is both healthy and satisfying.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile: Can be adapted to use fresh or frozen vegetables, and seasoned to taste.
- Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for summer and hearty enough for winter, making it a year-round favorite.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or stockpot
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups water
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cut green beans
- 4 cups tomato juice
- 1/2 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 bay leaves
How to Make Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large saucepan or stockpot, combine the potatoes, water, carrots, onion, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the green beans, tomato juice, cooked ground beef, corn, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and bay leaves.
- Cook the Soup: Cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the ingredients are heated through and the flavors are well blended.
- Finish and Serve: Remove and discard the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as peas, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or use a plant-based meat alternative.
Is it necessary to use tomato juice?
Tomato juice adds a rich, tangy flavor, but you can substitute it with a combination of tomato sauce and water or beef broth.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Conclusion
The Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a delightful, hearty meal that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for any season, this soup brings together a rich blend of vegetables and ground beef in a comforting broth. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this soup is a versatile and nutritious choice. Enjoy a warm bowl and savor the delicious blend of flavors in every spoonful!
