Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This soup combines savory ground beef with a variety of vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s easy to make and ideal for family dinners or meal prep, offering a wholesome and satisfying option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Carrots, Celery, and Potatoes:
Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine.
5. Add Seasonings:
Add the dried thyme, dried basil, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Soup:
Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
7. Add Green Beans and Corn:
Stir in the green beans and corn. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
8. Serve:
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the soup.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas based on your preference.
- Broth: Use high-quality beef broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth can significantly enhance the taste.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh thyme and basil can enhance the taste significantly.
- Grain Additions: Add cooked barley, rice, or pasta to make the soup even heartier.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its tender ground beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with family and friends, this delicious soup is sure to please. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this classic dish, and savor each delightful bite!
