Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Posted on

RECIPES

Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Introduction

Ground beef vegetable soup is a hearty and nourishing one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with flavor from the ground beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich tomato broth. This soup is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover vegetables you might have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make: The recipe utilizes simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for cooks of any level.
  • Nutritious and filling: This soup is packed with protein from the ground beef and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
  • Versatile: You can easily customize this soup by using different vegetables or adding your favorite seasonings.
  • Budget-friendly: This recipe makes a large batch, providing leftovers for another meal or freezing for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Add the remaining vegetables: Add the potatoes, green beans, and corn to the pot. Simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes more.
  5. Garnish and serve: Stir in the fresh parsley and serve hot.

Helpful Tips:

  • Use lean ground beef: To reduce the fat content, opt for lean ground beef or drain any excess grease after browning.
  • Substitute vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, peas, or spinach.
  • Add more flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding a bay leaf or a Parmesan cheese rind while simmering the soup.
  • Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later.

Details:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Can be adapted for gluten-free or vegetarian diets

Notes:

  • Gluten-free option: Ensure the beef broth used is gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or omit it altogether and add more vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Add them to the soup during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking or until heated through.
  • Can I add pasta or rice to this soup? Yes, you can add cooked pasta or rice to the soup for a heartier meal. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Ground beef vegetable soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a great way to use up leftovers and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. Try this recipe today and experience the warmth and flavor of homemade soup!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment