The aroma wafting through my kitchen takes me back to cherished family dinners, where laughter met the simmering pot on the stove. Today, I’m excited to share my Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup—a recipe that’s not just warm and inviting, but also incredibly easy to whip up. This hearty soup features tender roast beef swimming in a rich, tomato broth with a colorful medley of vegetables. It’s perfect for those busy days when comfort food is a must, and the best part? You can make a generous batch to freeze for future cozy meals. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s bring a taste of nostalgia to your table. Are you ready to fill your home with this heartwarming goodness?
Why Is This Soup a Family Favorite?
Nostalgic aromas fill your kitchen, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings. Hearty and satisfying, this Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for those chilly nights when comfort is non-negotiable. Time-saving frozen veggies mean less prep work, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. Versatile enough to cater to everyone’s taste, you can easily swap in seasonal vegetables or try it with ground beef for a quicker cook. Plus, it freezes beautifully, ensuring you have a delicious meal on hand whenever the craving strikes. Embrace the warmth of homemade soup with every comforting bite!
Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients
- For the Soup
- Pot Roast (about 2 pounds) – The main protein source that provides rich flavor; substitute with stew meat for quicker cooking.
- Russet Potatoes (2, chopped) – Adds heartiness and texture; can swap with Yukon gold for a creamier feel.
- Frozen Seasoning Blend – Provides flavor without prep time; use fresh chopped onions if you prefer a fresh taste.
- Frozen Peas (1 bag) – Offers sweetness and vibrant color; fresh peas can be a delightful alternative in season.
- Frozen Green Beans (1 bag) – Adds texture and is a great time saver; fresh green beans can be used for an even crisper bite.
- Frozen Corn (1 bag) – Brings sweetness and crunch; consider fresh corn if available for a seasonal touch.
- Carrots (4 large, chopped) – Infuses sweetness and nutrition; baby carrots are an easy substitute if you’re in a hurry.
- Beef Broth (1, 32 oz container) – Provides depth of flavor; using homemade broth can elevate the taste significantly.
- Tomato Soup (2, 10.75 oz cans) – Creates a delicious base for the soup; pureed tomatoes can be used for a fresher version.
- Water (1 can, filled) – Adjusts soup consistency; omit if you prefer a thicker base.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning every flavorful scoop.
This Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for enjoying with family on cozy nights.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Step 1: Season the Beef
Start by seasoning the pot roast generously with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Place the seasoned roast into a slow cooker and pour in half a can of beef broth. Set the slow cooker to LOW and let it cook for about 10 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. Once ready, shred the beef with two forks to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and frozen seasoning blend, sautéing for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Keep an eye on them; you want them to soften but not brown, as they’ll retain their brightness and flavor for the Vegetable Beef Soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, and the remaining beef broth to the pot. Pour in the two cans of tomato soup and one can filled with water to adjust the consistency. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, mixing in additional salt and pepper to taste for that comforting flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Turn the stove to high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, watching for bubbles to rise to the surface. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1 hour. During this time, the flavors of the Vegetable Beef Soup will meld beautifully, creating a heartwarming aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency
After an hour, check the soup’s consistency. If it’s too thick for your liking, add water in small increments, stirring until you reach the desired thickness. This last step allows you to tailor the soup to your preference while ensuring it’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Expert Tips for Vegetable Beef Soup
- Pre-Cooked Convenience: Using pre-cooked roast beef can significantly cut down on preparation time, making this Vegetable Beef Soup even easier to create on busy days.
- Frozen Veggie Benefits: Opting for frozen vegetables saves time and provides consistent texture. They are often flash-frozen, locking in freshness.
- Avoid Pot Overcrowding: Ensure that you have enough room for all the ingredients to cook evenly. Overcrowding the pot can lead to uneven cooking and soggy vegetables.
- Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness that elevates your Vegetable Beef Soup.
- Thicker Soup Tip: If you desire a thicker soup, consider pureeing a portion and returning it to the pot. This creates a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.
How to Store and Freeze Vegetable Beef Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. For best results, cool the soup for 1 hour before transferring to airtight freezer bags.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally for even heating. This way, your Vegetable Beef Soup retains its delightful flavor and texture.
Serving Tip: Pair reheated soup with freshly baked bread for a cozy and satisfying meal!
Vegetable Beef Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this comforting soup uniquely yours!
- Ground Beef: Substitute pot roast with ground beef for a quicker, savory dish that cooks in much less time. This lovely variation gives you that classic soup flavor without the lengthy cooking process.
- Creamy Corn: Add a can of cream corn to your soup for a sweeter, creamier twist that children will love. It brings an unexpected richness, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Fresh Herbs: Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary right at the end of cooking. This fresh touch can really brighten up the whole soup.
- Seasonal Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or squash in place of frozen green beans. They add a nice variety and give a fresh feel to the classic recipe while making it more colorful.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level for an exciting flavor boost.
- Homemade Broth: Swap store-bought beef broth for homemade for a deeper, more robust flavor. You’ll love the difference this small change can make in the overall profile of your soup.
- Tomato Variety: Use roasted garlic tomato soup instead of regular tomato soup for a smoky, garlicky flavor that will elevate this recipe to gourmet status. It adds depth and a touch of warmth in every bite.
- Barley or Rice: Consider adding cooked barley or rice to create a heartier meal that fills you up even more. Both options provide a delightful texture to your soup.
Each suggestion not only adds diversity to your meal but also inspires you to make this recipe your own. Experimenting with these variations may just lead to your new family favorite! If you’re intrigued by the idea of using wholesome ingredients, you might also enjoy making Potato Dill Soup or trying out a comforting Cranberry Pot Roast for a lovely dinner experience.
Make Ahead Options
These comforting Vegetable Beef Soup options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the pot roast up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning it and placing it in the slow cooker with beef broth, then refrigerating it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the shredded beef and prepped veggies in the pot, add your remaining ingredients, and simmer. This way, you save time and still enjoy all the heartwarming flavors just as comforting as if you’d made everything from scratch that day!
What to Serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Imagine your kitchen filled with the warmth of simmering soup, and the anticipation of gathering around the table to enjoy a cozy meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm bread complements the chunky soup, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Toast: The rich flavors of melted cheese and garlic enhance the savory notes, making this an irresistible side for your meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the soup over fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome twist that absorbs the delicious tomato broth beautifully.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combination! The gooey, melted cheese and buttery toastiness will take you right back to childhood memories.
- Herbed Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of seasonal veggies, providing a colorful, nutritious contrast to the soup.
- Hot Apple Cider: Sip on this warming drink alongside your soup for a comforting experience that fills your home with delightful aromas.
- Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of your rich Vegetable Beef Soup, making each bite extraordinary!
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal with a sweet touch; the warm, gooey goodness of cookies will delight both kids and adults alike.
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pot roast for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for a pot roast that has good marbling; this fat will melt during cooking, adding richness to your soup. Choose cuts like chuck roast or brisket—both are flavorful options that become tender and succulent when slow-cooked.
What is the best way to store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup?
For fridge storage, place your leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing. For longer storage, transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring to label them for easy identification.
Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup? If so, how?
Very! Freezing this hearty soup is a fantastic way to save some for later. Cool the soup completely for about an hour, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags—not exceeding 2/3 full to allow for expansion. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage and easy thawing later on.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add water or extra beef broth in small increments while stirring until you reach the desired consistency. This is a great chance to adjust the flavors, too—taste and season with salt and pepper as you go for a truly comforting Vegetable Beef Soup.
Is this soup suitable for people with food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To accommodate common allergies, consider using gluten-free beef broth and ensuring your tomato soup is free from allergens. For those watching sodium intake, low-sodium broth and less added salt can help maintain delicious flavor without the extra sodium. Plus, feel free to substitute vegetables based on personal preferences or availability—make this soup your own!
How long can I keep frozen Vegetable Beef Soup?
You can keep your Vegetable Beef Soup in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy it at its best, label your containers with the date so that you can enjoy your cozy, hearty meal while still fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot!
Comforting Vegetable Beef Soup for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the pot roast generously with salt and pepper. Place in a slow cooker with half a can of beef broth and set to LOW for about 10 hours until fork-tender. Shred the beef.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped carrots and frozen seasoning blend for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Add the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, and the remaining beef broth to the pot. Stir in the tomato soup and one can of water, mixing well.
- Bring the soup mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1 hour.
- Check and adjust the soup’s consistency; add more water if too thick, stirring until desired thickness is reached.
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