Introduction to Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a steaming bowl of ground beef vegetable soup. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you’ve just come home from work, exhausted but ready to settle in for the evening. The last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Enter this recipe for ground beef vegetable soup, a delightful dish that brings comfort and nutrition together in one pot. Not only does it warm your body and soul, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
The magic of this soup lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. Have some leftover veggies from last week’s grocery run? Toss them in! This adaptable quality not only reduces food waste but also allows you to play around with flavors and textures. Ground beef serves as a hearty base, providing protein while cooking down to meld beautifully with a variety of vegetables. The result is a rich, flavorful soup that the whole family will love—all in under 30 minutes.
But it’s not just about convenience. This ground beef vegetable soup is also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome option in your weeknight meal rotation. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a well-rounded dinner that shares a delightful aroma, filling your home with warmth and comfort.
Why This Soup Is a Go-To for Busy Nights?
- Quick Preparation: With minimal chopping and a straightforward cooking process, you can have this soup ready in no time.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup means more time for relaxation after a long day at work.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with vegetables and protein, it fuels your body after a busy day.
- Versatility: Customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand to enhance flavors and reduce waste.
So, grab your pots and utensils and let’s get cooking this delightful ground beef vegetable soup that you’ll want to make time and time again!
Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Ground Beef: The star of this delicious ground beef vegetable soup is, of course, the ground beef. I prefer using lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty yet not overly greasy. It’s packed with flavor—I often find myself snacking on the leftovers straight from the pot!
Vegetables: For a nutritious and hearty soup, I love loading up on fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Not only do they contribute to the flavor profile, but they also add vibrant colors and nutrients. Feel free to mix and match whatever veggies you have on hand; this recipe is incredibly forgiving.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a rich, tangy base for the soup. I usually go for fire-roasted tomatoes to give it an extra layer of flavor. Don’t underestimate the power of tomatoes—they’re essential for that comforting soup taste.
Broth: A quality beef broth is key for ensuring your ground beef vegetable soup has depth and richness. Homemade broth is ideal, but don’t hesitate to use store-bought for convenience; just look for low-sodium options to control the flavor.
Herbs and Seasonings: A blend of garlic, thyme, and bay leaves elevates the soup to new heights. Fresh or dried herbs work perfectly; I often find that dried spices tend to intensify as they cook, rounding out the overall taste beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ground beef vegetable soup is more than just a bowl of comfort; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day that embodies the essence of wholesome cooking. Imagine returning home after a long day and letting the rich aroma of simmering herbs and fresh vegetables awaken your senses. This recipe is a delightful way to incorporate nutritious ingredients while satiating your hunger with hearty flavors.
One of the best aspects of this ground beef vegetable soup is its versatility. Whether you prefer robust chunks of beef or a medley of seasonal vegetables, this recipe adapts beautifully. It’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to store leftovers for busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. Packed with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and green beans, you’re not just filling your stomach; you’re nourishing your body.
Moreover, cooking this soup is an engaging experience. It invites you to chop, sauté, and simmer, turning a simple dinner into a fun culinary adventure. And let’s not forget the joy of sharing—whether with family or friends, this soup brings people together, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in. Dive into this recipe and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavor, health, and comfort that a bowl of ground beef vegetable soup offers!
Tips for Making Perfect Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Crafting the ideal ground beef vegetable soup isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about evoking that warm, home-cooked feeling with every spoonful. The beauty of this dish lies in its hearty nature and the vibrant veggies that bring it to life.
Choosing Fresh Ingredients
For a truly satisfying soup, opt for fresh vegetables. Seasonal produce adds depth and flavor, making your soup shine. Carrots, celery, and bell peppers not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute to a colorful presentation.
Browning Ground Beef
Take your time to brown the ground beef properly before adding other ingredients. This step develops richer flavors through the Maillard reaction. Don’t rush this process; let it get nice and caramelized for that savory punch.
Layering Flavors
Add ingredients in stages. Start with aromatics like onions and garlic, followed by the browned beef, then your spices. This ensures every component has a chance to meld and create that deliciously complex flavor profile.
Simmering Time
A good ground beef vegetable soup benefits from a bit of patience. Allowing it to simmer for 30 to 45 minutes lets the flavors combine beautifully. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings along the way!
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers make for a fantastic next-day meal. Store your soup in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to revive its rich consistency.
With these tips in mind, your ground beef vegetable soup will warm hearts and bellies alike!
Time Breakdown for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Understanding the timeline for your ground beef vegetable soup makes cooking a breeze, allowing you to enjoy this hearty dish with ease.
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready takes about 15-20 minutes. Chop your vegetables, gather your spices, and brown your ground beef. This step is crucial for layering flavors!
Cooking Time
Once your ingredients are prepped, let the soup simmer for around 30-40 minutes. This is when the magic happens, and all the delightful flavors meld together beautifully.
Total Time
From start to finish, expect around 50-60 minutes to whip up this delicious ground beef vegetable soup. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but you’ll likely have leftovers for lunch the next day!
Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
When you think about a comforting bowl of ground beef vegetable soup, it’s not just about the cozy experience; it’s packed with nutritional goodies, too! This hearty dish brings together rich flavors and essential nutrients that nourish both body and soul.
Calories
Each serving of this delicious soup offers approximately 250 calories, making it a balanced choice for those busy weeknights. It’s satisfying yet easy on the waistline.
Protein
Packed with protein, this ground beef vegetable soup contains around 20 grams per serving. This is great for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full longer, perfect for your active lifestyle!
Fiber
With a delightful mix of vegetables, expect about 5 grams of fiber in every bowl. Fiber is your friend, helping digestion and keeping you satisfied, so you can conquer the rest of your day without hunger pangs.
FAQs about Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of ground beef vegetable soup tends to generate lots of questions among new cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Here are some frequently asked questions to help clear things up.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! One of the beauties of ground beef vegetable soup is its flexibility. You can tailor the soup to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Carrots, celery, green beans, or even kale are fantastic alternatives. Just remember that hearty veggies like potatoes or squash might need a bit longer to cook than softer options like spinach or zucchini.
Can I freeze the soup?
Definitely! Freezing your ground beef vegetable soup is a great way to have a delicious meal ready for future busy days. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to three months, but do keep it in mind: it’s best to leave out any starchy ingredients like pasta or rice, as they can become mushy once thawed.
How can I adjust the flavors?
Adjusting the flavors in your ground beef vegetable soup is simple and can make all the difference. For a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Want it more savory? An extra sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can deepen the flavor profile. Remember to taste as you go; this is your soup, after all! Adjust spices and seasonings according to your palate.
Conclusion on Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
The rich flavors and heartiness of ground beef vegetable soup make it a comfort dish that brings friends and family together. As you savor each spoonful, you’ll appreciate how the tender ground beef melds beautifully with nutritious veggies, creating a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it at a gathering, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Embrace the warmth of home cooking with this delightful recipe—it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A hearty and nutritious vegetable beef soup filled with lean ground beef and fresh vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 T olive oil, divided
- 2 lb. lean ground beef
- salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 T minced garlic
- 1 T dried parsley
- 1 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
- 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. ground fennel
- 6 cups beef stock
- 1 14 oz. can vegetable broth
- 2 14 oz. cans petite diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chopped cabbage
- 1 1/2 cups frozen cauliflower rice
- 3 cups chopped spinach
- 2 T Sherry Vinegar
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large frying pan and brown the ground beef well, breaking apart with your turner or a potato masher while it cooks.
- Season cooked beef with salt and fresh-ground black pepper and add to the soup pot.
- While beef cooks, chop the onion and celery. Add a little more oil to the frying pan and cook onion and celery about 3 minutes or until they are barely starting to brown.
- Then add minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, Spike Seasoning, and ground fennel and cook 1-2 minutes more.
- Add the beef stock and vegetable stock to the frying pan (to rinse it out) and then add that liquid to the soup pot with the canned petite diced tomatoes.
- Let soup simmer on low for 20 minutes while you chop the cabbage. Take cauliflower rice out of the freezer and let it start to thaw.
- After 20 minutes add chopped cabbage and frozen cauliflower rice to the soup pot and continue to simmer for 20 minutes while you chop the spinach.
- Add chopped spinach to the soup and cook 10 minutes longer.
- Stir in Sherry Vinegar or any mild light vinegar and simmer 5 minutes more.
- Taste the soup and add more salt and fresh-ground black pepper as desired.
- Serve the soup hot, with grated Parmesan cheese or sour cream to add at the table.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Spike Seasoning can be replaced with your favorite seasonings.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
