Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup: A Comforting Classic
When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something hearty and filling, there’s nothing like a big bowl of Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup to warm you up. Packed with tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory spices, this soup is not only nutritious but also comforting and satisfying. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy evening or a family dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making the best hearty ground beef and vegetable soup that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
The beauty of this soup lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The ground beef adds richness and protein, while the vegetables bring freshness and crunch. The tomato paste and diced tomatoes offer a tangy base, complemented by a medley of spices, including smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a touch of chili powder for a hint of warmth. This soup is incredibly versatile, and you can adjust the seasoning and vegetables according to what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this satisfying soup:
- 1 lb (450g) Ground Beef: This is the base of the soup, adding flavor and substance. You can use lean ground beef for a lighter option or a higher-fat version for a richer taste.
- 1 Large Onion, Chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: For aromatic flavor that complements the beef and vegetables.
- 2 Medium Carrots, Diced: Provides natural sweetness and color to the soup.
- 2 Stalks Celery, Diced: Adds crunch and freshness to the mix.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, Diced: Adds a pop of color and a slightly sweet, peppery flavor.
- 1 Can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes: Gives the soup a tangy, slightly acidic base that balances out the richness of the beef.
- 4 Cups Beef Broth: The liquid base for the soup, making it hearty and filling. You can also substitute with vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the taste of the soup.
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the flavor profile of the soup.
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor with a bit of spice.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Chili Powder: Adds a subtle kick to the soup. You can adjust this to taste, depending on how spicy you like it.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic herb that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and beef, providing healthy fats and flavor.
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Parsley, Chopped: For garnish and a fresh herbal note at the end.
- Sour Cream and Sliced Green Onions for Garnish: Optional, but these toppings provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the soup’s savory flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious hearty ground beef and vegetable soup from scratch:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove any excess fat from the pot. Set the beef aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning. The vegetables should be tender, and the onions should become translucent.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant and deepen in flavor.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth, stirring to combine everything evenly. Bring the soup to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become fully tender.
Step 5: Add the Ground Beef Back
Return the browned ground beef to the pot, stirring it in. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 5 minutes, letting the beef absorb the flavors of the broth and spices.
Step 6: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired. Once the flavors are to your liking, remove the soup from the heat.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. These toppings add a creamy and fresh element to the soup, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty ground beef and vegetable soup is filling enough on its own, but it can be served with a variety of sides for a complete meal:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with thick slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing with soup, perfect for a comforting meal.
- Rice or Noodles: If you prefer a more substantial soup, adding rice or pasta can make it even heartier.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add vegetables depending on what you have on hand. Zucchini, potatoes, or green beans would all be great additions.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier version, opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Just be sure to drain off any excess fat before adding the broth.
- Make It Spicy: If you like heat, you can add a chopped jalapeño or more chili powder to kick up the spice level.
- Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well for future meals. Simply store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Conclusion: A Hearty, Comforting Meal
This Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is a perfect meal for chilly nights when you want something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a soup that everyone in the family will love. The added spices bring warmth and depth, while the optional garnishes like sour cream and green onions add a creamy, fresh touch. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or enjoy a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite.