Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

**Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup: A Comforting and Nutritious Delight**

When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving a meal that’s warm, filling, and nourishing, there’s nothing quite like a hearty soup to satisfy your hunger and comfort your soul. Ground beef and vegetable soup is the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold day, combining savory ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth that is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make meal that can be adjusted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the world of hearty ground beef and vegetable soup. From understanding why this dish is so popular to learning how to make it from scratch, we will explore everything there is to know about this comforting, protein-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

### Why Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup is So Popular

Ground beef and vegetable soup is a beloved dish for several reasons:

1. **Flavorful and Satisfying**: Ground beef adds a hearty, savory flavor to the soup, making it filling and satisfying. The richness of the beef infuses the broth, creating a deep, comforting taste that pairs perfectly with the tender vegetables.

2. **Nutritious**: This soup provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The ground beef is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables offer dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin A, C, and K), and minerals like potassium and folate.

3. **Customizable**: One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. You can use a variety of vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. From carrots and celery to potatoes, corn, and beans, the soup can be tailored to your preferences. You can even adjust the seasoning to suit your taste or make it spicier for a little kick.

4. **Easy to Make**: Ground beef and vegetable soup is relatively easy to prepare, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal effort. Once you sauté the beef and vegetables, you let everything simmer together to develop flavors. It’s a low-maintenance, one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze.

5. **Perfect for Meal Prep**: This soup makes a large batch, so it’s perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and even improves in flavor after a day or two. If you have leftovers, they can be frozen for future meals, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks.

6. **Comforting**: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup. The combination of tender meat, vegetables, and rich broth makes this dish the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that reminds you of home and makes you feel cozy and content.

### Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

To make a hearty ground beef and vegetable soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

#### 1. **Ground Beef (1 lb)**
Ground beef is the main protein source in this soup. Choose lean ground beef (around 80-90% lean) for a good balance of flavor and fat content. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.

#### 2. **Vegetables**:
– **Carrots (2 medium)**: Carrots add sweetness and a vibrant color to the soup.
– **Celery (2-3 stalks)**: Celery provides crunch and a mild flavor that complements the other vegetables.
– **Onion (1 medium)**: Onion forms the base of the soup, providing a savory depth of flavor.
– **Potatoes (2 medium)**: Potatoes make the soup more filling and provide a hearty texture.
– **Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces)**: Canned diced tomatoes add tanginess and contribute to the rich broth.
– **Frozen or Fresh Green Beans (1 cup)**: Green beans add color and additional nutrients, enhancing the vegetable medley in the soup.
– **Corn (1 cup, optional)**: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness and color to the soup.

#### 3. **Garlic (2-3 cloves)**: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic and savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

#### 4. **Beef Broth (4 cups)**: Beef broth is the base of the soup, adding depth and richness. You can also use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter alternative.

#### 5. **Seasonings**:
– **Salt and Pepper**: Basic seasonings that bring out the flavors of the soup.
– **Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)**: A blend of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a savory, herby note to the soup.
– **Bay Leaves (2)**: Bay leaves impart a subtle, earthy flavor when simmered with the soup.
– **Paprika (1 teaspoon)**: Paprika adds a mild smokiness to the soup.
– **Red Pepper Flakes (optional)**: If you like a little spice, add red pepper flakes to give the soup a kick.

#### 6. **Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)**: Olive oil is used for sautéing the ground beef and vegetables, helping to release their flavors.

#### 7. **Parsley or Fresh Herbs (for garnish, optional)**: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top of the soup just before serving.

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s go through the steps to create a hearty and delicious ground beef and vegetable soup. This recipe is simple, and the process involves sautéing, simmering, and letting the flavors come together.

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