Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

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A warm and comforting bowl of Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is the perfect meal for any time of the year. Packed with savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rich spices, this soup delivers a satisfying depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family dinner, a cozy meal on a chilly day, or a make-ahead meal for busy nights, this recipe has you covered.

This soup is not only delicious and filling but also nutrient-dense, making it a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only one pot and minimal prep time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and Filling – Loaded with protein-rich beef and fiber-packed vegetables, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own.
  • Easy to Make – Comes together in one pot with simple ingredients.
  • Packed with Flavor – A rich blend of spices, herbs, and tomatoes gives this soup a deep, comforting taste.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
  • Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

Protein & Broth:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Provides a rich, meaty base for the soup.
  • 4 cups beef broth – Adds depth and enhances the beefy flavor.

Vegetables & Aromatics:

  • 1 large onion, chopped – Builds a strong, flavorful foundation.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic taste.
  • 2 medium carrots, diced – Adds natural sweetness and color.
  • 2 stalks celery, diced – Enhances texture and provides a mild earthy flavor.
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced – Contributes a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) – Gives the soup a rich tomato base.

Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Brings warm, earthy undertones.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) – Adds a mild heat for extra warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Provides an herby, slightly peppery note.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the vegetables.

Garnishes & Optional Toppings:

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
  • Sour cream – Creates a creamy contrast to the hearty soup.
  • Sliced green onions – Provides a mild, crisp bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Add the ground beef to the pot and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
  2. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned.
  3. If there is excess grease, carefully drain it before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

  1. Stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
  2. Add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Stir well to coat the vegetables and beef evenly with the spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

  1. Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice).
  2. Stir well, bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  3. Let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Stir in chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions for added richness and contrast.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it further with these serving ideas:

  • With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or a toasted baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
  • With Rice or Pasta: Add cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa to make the soup even more substantial.
  • With Crackers or Cornbread: Enjoy with buttery cornbread or crunchy crackers for added texture.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Use Different Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
  • Make It Spicier: Increase the chili powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Add More Vegetables: Try adding zucchini, green beans, potatoes, or peas for extra nutrients.
  • Go Low-Carb: Skip the carrots and use cauliflower rice instead of grains for a keto-friendly version.
  • Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.

Refrigerator Storage:

  • Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage:

  • Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
  • Slow Cooker: Transfer to a slow cooker on low heat for a gentle reheating method.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food that is both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors, it is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a freezer-friendly option for future meals.

Whether you enjoy it on its own, with crusty bread, or over a bowl of rice, this soup is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Try it today and experience the delicious, heartwarming flavors for yourself!

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