Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe – Hearty & Nutritious

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup on a chilly day. This hearty soup is packed with tender beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s a nutritious, well-balanced meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers both flavor and sustenance in every spoonful.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe, including preparation time, necessary ingredients, cooking instructions, and nutrition information.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course, Soup
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for seasoning mix)
• Tongs (for handling beef)

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

For the Soup Base:

• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
3. Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

4. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
6. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

8. Return the browned beef to the pot.
9. Add diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
10. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
11. Cover and let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

12. Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans.
13. Simmer for another 30 minutes until vegetables are tender and beef is fork-tender.
14. Add corn and peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving

15. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
16. Remove bay leaf and discard.
17. Let the soup rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
18. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Iron: 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious & Hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh vegetables and beef.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and a one-pot method for minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Swap or add vegetables based on seasonality and preference.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Freezes well, making it perfect for batch cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a nourishing, homemade meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy night in or as a nutritious option for the week, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Try it today, and enjoy the timeless flavors of this beloved comfort dish!