Veggie Beef Soup
Veggie Beef Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines flavorful ground beef with an array of fresh vegetables. The rich beef broth, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs create a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings. It's a nourishing choice for anyone seeking a wholesome, filling soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger; season with pepper, seasoning salt, and garlic powder to taste. Set meat aside.
- Combine remaining ingredients in a 5-quart stockpot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add meat and simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or even adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. To enhance the soup's heartiness, add beans or potatoes. You can also experiment with different vegetables like green beans or corn, similar to those found in Winter Vegetable Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Veggie Beef Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a classic Southern Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner. To elevate the dish, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with additional parsley. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and is sure to be a family favorite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veggie Beef Soup contains roughly 256 calories, with 10g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger if you're looking for a lighter option. It will still provide a delicious base for the soup while reducing fat content. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning as turkey may need a bit more flavor to match the richness of beef.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the hamburger first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory soup.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly based on the vegetables you choose. This flexibility allows you to customize the soup to your family's tastes.
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).