Homemade Chunky Beef Soup
Hearty homemade beef soup with vegetables and savory herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or cold days, offering rich flavors and nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the hamburger and chopped onion.
- Drain the fat from the beef mixture.
- Add the tomato juice, mixed frozen vegetables, salt, pepper, basil, marjoram, garlic powder, hot water, and beef bouillon.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Add the elbow macaroni or barley and cook until tender.
- If the soup is too thick, add an additional cup of beef bouillon and stir.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce. You can substitute the beef bouillon with homemade stock if you have it on hand. If fresh vegetables are available, feel free to use them instead of frozen for a fresher taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, especially if you enjoy more herbs, as this soup can be very versatile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chunky beef soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Beany Beefburgers for a filling dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens after refrigeration, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Chunky Beef Soup contains roughly 434 calories, with 13g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1018mg per serving (44% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great substitute for hamburger in this recipe. It will provide a lighter flavor while still offering protein. Just ensure you season it well, as turkey can be milder than beef.
What should I do if I don't have elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape or even barley for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or grain you choose to ensure it cooks through.
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
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).