Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe 🍲

Introduction to Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

When it comes to hearty and comforting meals, nothing compares to a steaming bowl of ground beef vegetable soup. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this meal not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. In this article, we’ll walk you through a detailed guide on how to prepare the ultimate ground beef vegetable soup using a collection of simple ingredients that come together for a flavorful experience.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the best ground beef vegetable soup:

• 2 pounds ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• 4 carrots, diced: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
• 4 celery ribs, chopped: Brings in a slightly salty, earthy flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: Essential for building the base flavors.
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds bulk and texture.
• 1 (15.25-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• 1 (15-ounce) can green beans, drained and rinsed: For added nutrition and fiber.
• 1 (15-ounce) can peas, undrained: Adds extra protein and a pop of green.
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: The base that binds all the flavors together.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can whole tomatoes, crushed: Brings a rich and deep tomato flavor.
• Ground black pepper, to taste: For seasoning and balance.
• 1 bay leaf (or more to taste): Adds subtle herbal notes.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground thyme: Enhances the earthiness of the vegetables and beef.
• ¼ cup water, as needed: To adjust the soup’s consistency.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by crumbling the ground beef into a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Continuously cook and stir until the beef is fully browned, crumbly, and no longer pink. This process should take between 7 to 10 minutes. Once browned, drain the excess grease carefully to prevent an oily texture in your soup.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

After draining the ground beef, add the diced carrots, chopped celery, and chopped onion to the pot. Stir the vegetables regularly and cook them until they soften, which typically takes around 5 minutes. These three vegetables form the flavor base of the soup, so ensuring they’re well-cooked is crucial to the overall taste.

Step 3: Incorporate the Starchy and Canned Vegetables

Next, it’s time to add the more substantial ingredients. Stir in the peeled and diced potatoes, drained corn, drained green beans, undrained peas, tomato sauce, and crushed whole tomatoes. The combination of these vegetables creates a nutritious medley that makes the soup hearty and filling.

Step 4: Season the Soup

To season your soup, add ground black pepper to taste, a single bay leaf, and ground thyme. These herbs and spices bring out the best flavors in the beef and vegetables without overwhelming the dish.

Step 5: Adjust the Consistency

Add ¼ cup of water if needed. As the soup cooks, you may need to replenish the water if it becomes too thick. The goal is to create a balanced consistency that’s neither too watery nor too thick.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat slightly, cover the pot, and continue to cook for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The soup will thicken as the potatoes cook and release their starch, while the flavors meld together into a rich, hearty broth.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

After an hour, remove the bay leaf and give the soup a final taste. Adjust the seasoning with more black pepper or thyme, if necessary. If the soup has thickened too much for your liking, feel free to add a bit more water.

Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

• Use quality beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the soup, or consider a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
• Customize your vegetables: While this recipe uses corn, peas, green beans, and carrots, feel free to substitute in-season vegetables for added freshness.
• Add pasta or rice: For an even heartier soup, you can add small pasta shapes or pre-cooked rice about 10 minutes before the soup finishes cooking.
• Make it spicy: For those who like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions and celery.
• Meal prep and storage: This soup stores exceptionally well in the fridge or freezer. Be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Why You Should Try Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

This ground beef vegetable soup recipe is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a comforting, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons why this soup should be on your cooking list:

• Nutrient-dense: With a mix of vegetables, lean beef, and tomatoes, this soup is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Budget-friendly: Using common pantry staples and inexpensive ground beef, this recipe is affordable and ideal for feeding a crowd or making in bulk.
• Customizable: Whether you’re adding extra vegetables or switching up the herbs, this recipe can be adapted to suit any taste preference or dietary need.
• Perfect for all seasons: While it’s especially comforting in colder months, this soup can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its light yet filling nature.

Final Thoughts

Ground beef vegetable soup is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that provides warmth and comfort in every spoonful. This simple yet flavorful recipe ensures that you can create a hearty meal without too much effort. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you’re craving a nutritious meal that still feels indulgent.