This Hearty Beef Vegetable & Bean Soup is packed with tender beef, colorful veggies, and hearty beans. It’s a warm hug in a bowl for chilly days!
When I make this soup, my whole kitchen smells amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies. I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds protein and a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils or black beans instead!
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and green beans are essential. If you don’t have green beans, zucchini or bell peppers work well. Fresh veggies give the best taste, but frozen ones can be used in a pinch.
Beans: Kidney beans are hearty and nutritious. You could use black beans or chickpeas instead, which also add great texture.
Beef Broth: This forms the soup’s base. For a lighter version, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth also adds a deeper flavor if you have it on hand.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme bring warmth to the soup. If fresh herbs are available, they make a lovely addition. Just use triple the amount since fresh herbs are less potent.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor When Cooking?
Building flavor is key to a delicious soup. Start by browning the beef well—it adds depth to the whole dish. Don’t rush sautéing the onions and garlic; letting them soften brings out their sweetness.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning.
- Let the spices cook with the tomato paste so they release their full flavors.
- Simmer the soup long enough for the flavors to meld—about 25-30 minutes is perfect!
By following these steps, your soup will have a rich, comforting taste that everyone will love.
Hearty Beef Vegetable & Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup pearl onions (or small white onions), peeled
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hearty soup requires about 15 minutes for prep. After that, you’ll spend around 35-40 minutes cooking. In total, it’s about an hour to whip up this nourishing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces as it cooks. Sauté until browned, stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Add the Aromatics:
Once the beef is nicely browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir them in and cook until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Incorporate the Tomato Paste:
Next, stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes. This enhances the flavor of the soup and adds richness.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Add the diced carrots, green beans, pearl onions, and potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together until the veggies are combined with the beef mixture.
5. Pour in the Liquids:
Now, add the diced tomatoes along with their juices and pour in the beef broth. Sprinkle in the oregano, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
6. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
7. Add the Beans:
Stir in the rinsed kidney beans and let the soup cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that warms the heart!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Soup?
Absolutely! Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or adding extra beans in place of meat.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to replace the green beans or pearl onions with other vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas work great. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on how quickly they cook!
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
