Old Fashioned Beef Soup
A hearty, comforting beef soup with rich flavors from slow-simmered beef and marrow, perfect for cold days or family gatherings. Loaded with vegetables and savory broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large soup kettle.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a very slow simmer with just 2 or 3 bubbles coming up.
- Simmer for 3 1/2 hours.
- Add more water if the soup has simmered down too much.
- Remove the meat and bone from the soup.
- Strain the soup into another kettle.
- Bring the strained soup to a boil, then add noodles.
- Cook the noodles slowly for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in a bit of oil before adding the other ingredients. If you don’t have a marrow bone, you can use a beef shank or omit it altogether. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add other vegetables like green beans or peas for added nutrition. This soup can also benefit from a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This hearty beef soup is perfect on its own but also complements dishes like Grandma Turner'S Veggie Soup for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months, ensuring to leave space for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Beef Soup contains roughly 1448 calories, with 37g protein, 296g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (298% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2234mg per serving (97% 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 type of meat for this soup?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cuts of beef or even use lamb for a unique flavor. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on the meat's tenderness.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, blending a portion of the soup can also create a thicker consistency.
What type of noodles should I use?
Egg noodles are a great choice for this beef soup, as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. You can also use other types like fettuccine or even macaroni, depending on your preference.
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).