Homemade Vegetable Soup
A hearty and flavorful vegetable soup packed with ground beef, tender vegetables, and rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or meal prep. Its rich tomato base and savory seasonings make it a satisfying choice for those seeking a nutritious, filling, and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown ground beef in a small amount of cooking oil; drain off excess fat.
- Combine all ingredients in a large kettle.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or herbs like thyme and bay leaf with the onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you have leftover vegetables, such as bell peppers or green beans, feel free to toss them in. To make it heartier, add more rice or some beans, similar to what's found in 4-Alarm Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty vegetable soup with crusty bread or a side of cornbread to soak up the flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can brighten the dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple salad or serving it alongside Grandma Dye's Mini Meat Loaves With Vegetables for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for about 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it's too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Vegetable Soup contains roughly 1672 calories, with 41g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% 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 frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative. They are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, which can retain their flavor and nutrients. Just add them at the same time as the fresh vegetables, but keep in mind they may require slightly less cooking time.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor. You can also add more beans or tofu for added protein.
What other spices can I add for more flavor?
Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning to enhance the soup's flavor profile. A dash of hot sauce can also add a kick. For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
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).