Description

Welcome to a warm bowl of comfort! This Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is not just any soup; it's a hearty and nutritious dish designed to warm you up on chilly days while satisfying your taste buds. With tender potatoes, fresh carrots, vibrant green beans, sweet corn, and savory ground beef mixed together in a rich tomato-based broth, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy over the weekend, this soup hits all the right notes.

What makes this vegetable beef soup truly special is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of complex ingredients or culinary skills to whip up this delightful dish. It's all about fresh, quality ingredients that come together harmoniously, creating a rich flavor profile that speaks of home-cooked love. As an added bonus, it's one of those recipes that tastes even better as leftovers, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. Dive into this recipe to discover how easy it is to make this family favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups water
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups fresh or frozen cut green beans
• 4 cups tomato juice
• 1/2 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 bay leaves

Preparation Method

Start your culinary adventure by preparing the base of the soup. In a large saucepan, combine the potatoes, water, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once the water begins to bubble, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. This crucial step helps soften the potatoes and carrots while infusing the broth with their natural sweetness, creating a comforting and flavorful base for your soup.

After the vegetables are tender, it’s time to elevate your soup with the addition of other vibrant ingredients. Stir in the fresh or frozen green beans, tomato juice, cooked ground beef, and corn. Likewise, add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and bay leaves to the pot. Each of these ingredients contributes a unique flavor and texture, enriching the soup's profile. The green beans offer a fresh crunch, while the tomato juice brings acidity and body. The ground beef provides protein and adds a savory depth, while the seasoning creates a warm, aromatic essence throughout the broth.

With all ingredients combined, cover the pot again and let the soup simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that everything melds together perfectly. As it simmers, the vegetables will continue to soften, and the ground beef will absorb the rich flavors of the broth. When you’re ready to serve, remember to remove and discard the bay leaves; they’ve imparted their flavor and are no longer needed in the final dish.

Tips and Conclusion

This vegetable beef soup is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. If you're feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, peas, or bell peppers. Just be careful to adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure that all vegetables are perfectly tender without losing their freshness.

If you prefer a heartier soup, you could also add some cooked pasta or rice towards the end of the cooking process. Just cook the grains separately to prevent them from becoming mushy before stirring them in. Additionally, parsley or grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish can add a lovely finishing touch.
This Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a dish that will undoubtedly make it to your regular meal rotation. It’s not only satisfying but also nourishing, making it a great option for families or anyone who enjoys a hearty meal that is easy to prepare. With its rich, wholesome ingredients and uncomplicated preparation, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

As the weather gets cooler, gather your loved ones around the table, serve them a steaming bowl of this hearty soup, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that comes from a homemade meal. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your delicious creation!