Beef And Fresh Broccoli Soup
Hearty beef and broccoli soup with aromatic leeks, mushrooms, and a touch of parmesan—perfect for cozy family dinners, combining savory beef with fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 2 lb boneless beef round, 2 large leeks, 3 cans beef broth, 3 bay leaves, 2 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 2 cups water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until beef is tender. Remove bay leaves.
- Add 1 lb sliced fresh mushrooms and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add 2 lb broccoli florets and simmer for 4 minutes.
- Add 2 sliced yellow summer squash and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, sear the beef cubes in a bit of oil before adding them to the broth. If you don't have leeks, you can substitute with onions or shallots. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added for an extra touch. Consider using vegetable broth for a lighter option, or adding other vegetables such as carrots or corn for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Beef Stew With Biscuits, making it a great option for a cozy family dinner. Consider garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. For best texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the broccoli mushy. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Fresh Broccoli Soup contains roughly 290 calories, with 15g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (248% of the Daily Value), iron (184% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this soup?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chuck or brisket, which are also flavorful and tender when cooked slowly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the beef is tender.
What can I substitute for broccoli if I don’t have any?
You can easily substitute cauliflower or green beans for broccoli, as they provide a similar texture and flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they remain crisp and vibrant.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients except for the vegetables and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add the mushrooms, broccoli, and squash in the last hour of cooking for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).