This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful vegetable beef soup using ground beef, perfect for a cozy night in or a weeknight meal. It's surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this version is all about ease and deliciousness.
What makes this vegetable beef soup recipe easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. We use ground beef for quick cooking and easy browning, eliminating the need for lengthy simmering times associated with tougher cuts. The vegetable selection is straightforward, focusing on common and readily available options. The entire process is designed to be streamlined and efficient, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
What vegetables are best for this soup?
The beauty of this soup is its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. However, some excellent choices that complement the ground beef include:
- Carrots: Add sweetness and a vibrant color.
- Celery: Provides a subtle earthy flavor and nice texture.
- Onions: Essential for building a rich base flavor.
- Potatoes: Create heartiness and thicken the soup naturally.
- Green beans: Offer a fresh and slightly crisp element.
- Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes: Provide acidity and vibrant color.
You can also experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms.
How to make the best easy vegetable beef soup with ground beef?
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can green beans, drained (or 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and halved)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the potatoes, diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, beef broth, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I add to make this soup spicier?
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup while it simmers. A diced jalapeño pepper would also add a nice heat.
Can I use different types of ground beef?
You can use lean ground beef, extra-lean ground beef, or even a ground beef blend. The leaner the beef, the less grease you'll need to drain.
Is this soup healthy?
This soup is a relatively healthy option, packed with vegetables and protein. However, the nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients you use and the amount of fat in the ground beef.
This easy vegetable beef soup recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Enjoy!
