Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe

Updated on: December 12, 2025

Close-up of a hearty beef vegetable soup recipe in a white bowl, garnished with fresh parsley.

Welcome to your new favorite comfort food! This Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup recipe delivers rich, deep flavors that will warm you from the inside out. It is a true classic, reminiscent of wholesome homemade meals. This recipe guides you through creating a flavorful, satisfying soup packed with tender beef and an array of healthy vegetables. Enjoy a nourishing and easy one-pot meal with simple steps and delicious results. Get ready for the best vegetable beef soup!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Vegetable Soup

This homemade vegetable beef soup stands out for many fantastic reasons. It is designed to be beginner-friendly and save you time in the kitchen.

Hearty & Fulfilling: Each spoonful is packed with robust flavors and satisfying ingredients, making it a complete meal.
Packed with Tender Beef: Melt-in-your-mouth beef stew meat infuses the broth with incredible savory notes.
Loaded with Healthy Vegetables: Enjoy a colorful mix of carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas, providing essential nutrients.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
Simple One-Pot Process: Minimize cleanup with this straightforward recipe cooked entirely in a single pot.
Customizable to Taste: Easily adjust vegetables or seasonings to perfectly match your family’s preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and pantry staples to create a delicious and hearty vegetable beef soup. Using quality ingredients truly makes a difference in the final flavor of your soup.

1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat*

2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, (divided)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 3/4 cups chopped yellow onion ((1 large))

1 1/4 cups peeled and chopped carrots ((3 medium))

1 cup chopped celery ((3 medium))

1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic ((4 cloves))

8 cups low-sodium beef broth or chicken broth

2 (14 oz.) cans diced tomatoes

1 1/2 tsp dried basil**

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp dried thyme

1 lb red or yellow potatoes, (chopped into 3/4-inch cubes)

1 1/2 cups (5 oz.) chopped green beans ((trim ends first))

1 1/2 cups frozen corn***

1 cup frozen peas

1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley

Notes & Substitutions

Beef Stew Meat: For the most tender results, choose chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes. Other cuts like round steak can work but may require longer simmering.
Broth Variations: While beef broth is traditional, you can use chicken broth or even a mix for a slightly lighter flavor profile in your beef and vegetable soup.
Veggie Substitution Ideas: Feel free to swap in or add other hearty vegetables. Try chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or parsnips for variety.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: You can use fresh herbs. Remember, 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.
Potato Choices: Red or yellow potatoes hold their shape well. Russet potatoes are fine but might break down more, slightly thickening the soup.

Equipment

You won’t need much specialized gear for this delicious beef vegetable soup. A few kitchen essentials are all it takes.

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (at least 6-quart)
Sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts
Slotted spoon for browning beef and a ladle for serving

How to Make Beef Vegetable Soup (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Making this comforting vegetable beef soup is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect pot every time, ensuring a hearty meal that’s simple to prepare.

Prep Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all your vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and cube your potatoes and green beans. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth.
Brown Beef in Batches: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper. Add half of the beef to the hot pot and brown it for about 4 minutes, turning halfway through to achieve a nice sear on all sides. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor.
Finish Browning: Transfer the browned beef to a clean plate. Add another 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and repeat the browning process with the remaining half of the beef. Once browned, remove it and set it aside with the first batch.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the final 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the now empty pot. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for 3 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute longer, being careful not to burn it.
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring once or twice, to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to begin tenderizing.
Add Potatoes: After the initial 30 minutes, add the chopped potatoes to the soup. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 20 minutes. If you prefer your green beans very soft, you can add them at this stage along with the potatoes.
Stir in Green Beans: Add the chopped green beans and continue to simmer for 15 minutes longer. At this point, check for tenderness. The beef and all the vegetables should be perfectly fork-tender.
Add Corn and Peas: Finally, pour in the frozen corn and peas. Simmer just until they are heated through, which usually takes about 5 minutes. These vegetables cook quickly and add a burst of color and sweetness.
Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning one last time, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle your warm, comforting vegetable beef soup into bowls and serve immediately.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving the best vegetable beef soup is simple with a few expert tips. These will help you elevate your flavors and avoid common pitfalls.

Achieve Super Tender Beef: Browning the beef thoroughly locks in flavor. Long, slow simmering at a low temperature is key for incredibly tender stew meat. Don’t rush this step.
Ensure Perfect Veggie Texture: Add root vegetables like potatoes and carrots earlier. Quicker-cooking vegetables like corn and peas go in towards the end to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Boost Overall Soup Flavor: Don’t skip deglazing the pot after browning the beef. The browned bits stuck to the bottom are packed with flavor. Also, a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce can add complexity.
Avoid Common Mistakes: Overcrowding the pot when browning beef will steam it instead of searing. Work in batches to get a good crust. Also, remember to season at each stage.
Adjust Seasoning Accurately: Always taste your soup before serving. Broth brands vary in salt content, so adjust salt and pepper as needed. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Thicken Soup if Desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can remove a cup of cooked potatoes, mash them, and stir them back into the soup. Alternatively, make a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

This versatile beef and vegetable soup is delicious on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides. It’s also fantastic for make-ahead meals.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
Serve with Simple Side Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, dill, or chives adds a burst of color and a fresh aroma just before serving.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate Leftovers Properly: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: This soup freezes beautifully! Divide cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Best Reheating Methods: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.

Recipe Variations

Add Different Root Vegetables: Try adding cubed parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash for extra depth and sweetness. Sweet potatoes can also be a delicious addition.
Experiment with Other Herbs: Beyond basil, oregano, and thyme, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering (remove before serving) or a touch of rosemary for an earthy note.
Make it in a Slow Cooker: Brown the beef and sauté aromatics first. Then combine all ingredients (except quick-cooking veggies like corn and peas) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add corn and peas during the last 30 minutes. This method yields incredibly tender beef vegetable soup.
Adapt for Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown beef and sauté aromatics. Add remaining ingredients (except corn and peas). Pressure cook on high for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural release. Stir in corn and peas and simmer for a few minutes.
Try a Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the dried herbs, or include a diced jalapeño with the aromatics for a touch of heat.

Beef Vegetable Soup Nutrition Information

This hearty beef and vegetable soup is a nutritious meal choice, packed with wholesome ingredients that support a balanced diet.

A diet rich in vegetables, including those found in this soup, can promote overall well-being and aid in digestion. Explore the health benefits of vegetable soups.

It’s rich in protein from the beef, which is essential for muscle health. The generous amount of vegetables provides a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, supporting digestion and overall wellness. This comforting soup offers a satisfying way to enjoy a balanced, flavorful meal.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	6g
Sugars	7g
Sodium	480mg
Potassium	900mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about making the perfect vegetable beef soup? We have answers to help you cook with confidence!

Can I use frozen beef? You can, but it’s best to thaw it first for proper browning. Browning significantly enhances the flavor of your beef and vegetable soup.
How to make it thicker? For a thicker consistency, simmer the soup uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes or mash some cooked potatoes back into the broth. You could also use a cornstarch slurry.
What are the best beef cuts? Chuck roast or beef stew meat are ideal. They become incredibly tender during the slow simmering process, perfect for a rich beef vegetable soup.
Can I make it ahead? Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for making a day or two in advance. The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits.
What kind of broth is best? Low-sodium beef broth is recommended for the richest flavor, allowing you to control the saltiness. Chicken broth also works in a pinch.
How long does it last? Stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade beef vegetable soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

This Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comforting warmth, perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures prove that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Easy to make and incredibly nourishing, this vegetable beef soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. We encourage you to give it a try tonight! Let us know in the comments how your soup turned out, and share any favorite variations you discovered.