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Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of hot, hearty soup. Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up from the inside out. Packed with savory ground beef, nutrient-rich vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup is both comforting and nutritious. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for your family or a simple one-pot meal to enjoy during the colder months, this Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s bursting with flavors and loaded with wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
- Nutrient-Dense: This soup is loaded with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas, offering a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Protein-Packed: Ground beef provides a hearty dose of protein, making the soup filling and satisfying.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, this soup is super easy to clean up after.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping in a different protein like turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh, if preferred)
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: How to Make Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, add the carrots, potatoes, and zucchini (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together to combine the vegetables with the beef and aromatics.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquids and Seasonings
Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and the frozen peas to the pot. Stir in the oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with warm, crusty bread or crackers on the side, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out or add vegetables based on what you have on hand. Green beans, corn, or spinach would make great additions to the soup.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup.
- Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you c
