Hearty Ground Beef and Veggie Soup

Name: Hearty Ground Beef and Veggie Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making this Hearty Ground Beef and Veggie Soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of savory ground beef with a colorful mix of vegetables creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup quickly becomes a weeknight favorite in our household. It's a perfect way to use up leftover vegetables, and everyone always asks for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to savor it again and again!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-30T22:10:27.430Z

When I first crafted this Hearty Ground Beef and Veggie Soup, I wanted something wholesome yet simple. I experimented with various vegetables and found that carrots, celery, and green beans provided the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Sautéing the beef with garlic before adding the vegetables creates a rich depth of flavor that always impresses my family.

One of my favorite tips is to let the soup simmer on low for an extra five minutes. It allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's bursting with taste. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, making it ideal for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A cozy blend of ground beef and fresh veggies that warms your heart.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste and pantry.

Ingredient Insights

The quality of ground beef you use can significantly impact the flavor profile of your soup. I prefer using medium-ground beef, which offers a balance of tenderness and flavor without being too greasy. If you're concerned about fat content, you can opt for lean ground beef or even turkey as a lighter alternative. Just be aware that leaner meats might require a bit more seasoning to ensure the soup remains rich and satisfying.

In addition to the main vegetables listed, this soup is incredibly flexible when it comes to additional ingredients. Feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn. Just be mindful of the cooking times; softer vegetables may need less time in the pot to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Cooking Tips

Sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil is key to building a flavorful base for your soup. Aim for cooking the onion until it’s translucent, about 3-5 minutes, which releases its natural sweetness. This step not only enhances the aroma but also provides depth to the overall dish. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can turn bitter and spoil the overall flavor.

When simmering the soup, make sure to give it a quick stir every few minutes. This helps prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning, especially as the mixture thickens. If you notice any ingredient settling, like the tomatoes, gentle stirring will keep everything well combined and evenly cooked.

Serving Suggestions

For a little extra flair, consider topping your soup with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These additions provide a burst of freshness and a hint of savory richness that elevates the dish. A crusty piece of bread or garlic toast on the side pairs beautifully and allows for enjoyable dipping.

If you plan to make this soup ahead of time, consider prepping the vegetables and browning the beef a day in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, combine everything, add your broth, and let it simmer for a quick 20-minute meal. This certainly saves time on busy evenings, ensuring you have a hearty and nourishing supper at the ready.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand!

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Enjoy your warm and hearty soup!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering process. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Ground Beef and Veggie Soup stores beautifully, making it a great candidate for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. For quick reheating, place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it's heated through, about 10-15 minutes. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Try incorporating spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs to give your soup a different flavor profile. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while it simmers can also enhance the umami flavor, making the soup even more comforting. Adjust the seasonings according to your personal preferences for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

For a heartier option, consider adding a cup of uncooked pasta or rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This not only makes the soup more filling but also adds a delightful texture. Just remember to adjust the amount of broth accordingly, as these grains will absorb liquid during cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add zucchini, corn, or spinach based on your preference. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces for even cooking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth, this soup is naturally gluten-free.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.