Warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds with Nancy's Vegetable Beef Soup—a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings! Bursting with rich flavors and packed with nutritious vegetables, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Imagine the aroma of simmering beef mingling with fresh vegetables, inviting everyone to the table. Ready to discover how to create this delicious masterpiece in just over an hour? Let’s dive into the recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup green beans
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onions to the browned beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine and scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the soup.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate the seasonings thoroughly.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for approximately 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, add the green beans to the soup and continue simmering.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well.
- Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping your vegetables in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the beef. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup, so ensure it's well-browned before moving on.
- Season Gradually: Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning gradually. This ensures that the flavors develop beautifully without becoming overpowering.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can add a delightful twist to the soup.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garnish for Flair: Serve your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch that elevates the dish.
- Store Leftovers Wisely: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg