How to Make Best Ever Vegetable Beef Soup

Best Ever Vegetable Beef Soup: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Classic

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of vegetable beef soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This Best Ever Vegetable Beef Soup combines tender, juicy chunks of beef with a medley of fresh vegetables including golden potatoes, crisp carrots, green beans, and sweet corn, all simmered in rich, savory tomato juice. Perfect as a family dinner, this one-pot meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting lunch, this soup is easy to make, budget-friendly, and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully. Optimized for search engines, this recipe is your ultimate guide to creating a restaurant-quality vegetable beef soup at home that’s hearty, wholesome, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 (28 oz) can tomato juice
2 cups water
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef broth, tomato juice, and water. Stir in thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add potatoes, carrots, and celery. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook covered for 30 minutes, or until vegetables and beef are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in green beans and corn. Simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until all vegetables are cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions + Variations

Serve this soup hot with a slice of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb version, replace potatoes with cauliflower florets. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra depth of flavor. For a spicy twist, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup

Use a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables for convenience without compromising flavor.
Brown the beef properly to enhance the depth of flavor in the broth.
Simmer gently to keep the beef tender and prevent vegetables from overcooking.
Make a large batch—this soup freezes well and tastes even better the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, ground beef can be used, but cook it thoroughly and adjust simmering time, as it cooks faster than stew meat.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What other vegetables can I add?
Try adding peas, bell peppers, zucchini, or cabbage for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that your beef broth and tomato juice are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

Conclusion

The Best Ever Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With tender beef, a rainbow of vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in. Easy to make, hearty, and packed with flavor, this soup is a must-have recipe for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish. Optimize your weekly meal plan with this timeless classic, guaranteed to warm hearts and fill stomachs.