How to Make Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Thinking about a hearty soup for dinner? Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef is a tasty and healthy choice. It’s perfect for any night or a big event. You can mix ground beef, veggies, and broth to make a meal that’s both tasty and good for you.

When you make this soup, pick the right ground beef. Options like 80/20 or 85/15 give it a richer taste. Use beef stock or broth to add more flavor. Adding V8 Original Vegetable Juice boosts the veggie flavor.

Key Takeaways

• You can make Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef with a variety of ingredients, including ground beef, vegetables, and broth.
• The soup has a high nutritional value, with a typical serving size of about 1 cup containing approximately 294 calories.
• You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
• The recipe yields a large quantity of soup, enough to feed a large group.
• You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences, using different seasonings and ingredients.
• Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef is a hearty soup recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• The soup is rich in essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Benefits of Making Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef at Home

Making vegetable soup with ground beef at home is a smart choice for a easy weeknight dinner. It’s both healthy and tasty. You can adjust it to fit your taste and dietary needs. This makes it perfect for families or anyone wanting a filling meal.

Here are some benefits of making this soup at home:

• Nutritional advantages: The soup is full of vitamins, minerals, and protein from the ground beef and veggies.
• Cost-effective meal planning: Cooking a big batch of soup can save money. It’s a smart way to plan meals for the week.
• Batch cooking benefits: Making a lot of soup saves time and effort. You can store it in the fridge or freezer for later.

By cooking vegetable soup with ground beef at home, you get a nutritious and comforting meal. It’s great for any time, whether you need a quick easy weeknight dinner or a comfort food to warm you up.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

To make a tasty and healthy soup, you need the right tools. A large Dutch oven or soup pot is key for vegetable soup with ground beef. It ensures even heat and holds lots of ingredients.

Look for a pot made of stainless steel or cast iron. These materials keep heat well and are easy to clean. A pot with a heavy bottom prevents scorching and cooks evenly.

Other tools you’ll need include:

• A large cutting board for chopping vegetables
• A set of sharp knives for cutting and slicing ingredients
• A measuring cup and spoons for accurate measurements
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and serving

Having the right tools makes soup-making easier and more fun. With practice, you can make a delicious, healthy soup that everyone will enjoy.

Selecting the Perfect Ingredients

Choosing the right ingredients is key to a tasty and healthy one-pot meal like vegetable soup with ground beef. You want the freshest and best to enhance flavors and textures. For a healthier option, use 90% lean ground beef to cut down on grease.

Start with 90% lean ground beef to reduce grease in your soup. You can find this at most grocery stores or online recipe platforms. Pick colorful veggies like carrots, potatoes, and green beans for sweetness and texture. Add herbs and spices like thyme and oregano to boost flavor.

Choosing Quality Ground Beef

Opt for ground beef with 10% fat or less for a lean choice. Grass-fed or organic beef is also a great option for sustainability and nutrition.

Best Vegetables for Soup

Some top veggies for soup are:

• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Green beans
• Peas
• Corn

Recommended Herbs and Seasonings

Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for extra flavor. Beef bouillon or broth can also enrich your soup’s taste.

Preparation Steps Before Cooking

To make a delicious hearty soup recipe like Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef, follow some key steps. First, brown the ground beef. This step is crucial for the soup’s flavor. Web sources agree that browning the beef before adding vegetables and broth makes the soup rich and savory.

Here are some important preparation steps to remember:

• Chop the vegetables, including onion, celery, garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and red potatoes, into bite-sized pieces.
• Measure out the ground beef, which should be around 2 pounds for this recipe.
• Prepare the seasoning ingredients, including kosher salt, black pepper, dried parsley flakes, ground oregano, and cayenne pepper.

By following these steps, you’ll make a mouth-watering Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef. It’s a family favorite. The hearty soup recipe is great for any meal and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Plan ahead and allow about 10 minutes for preparation. With these simple steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef soon.

The Best Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef Recipe

Looking for an easy dinner? Try vegetable soup with ground beef. It’s tasty, nutritious, and you can make it your own. You’ll need lean ground beef, veggies, and broth.

Here’s what you need: 1 lb. lean ground beef, 4 medium carrots, 3 stalks of celery, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Add 5 cups of water, 1 can of low-sodium beef broth, and 1 can of kidney beans. Season with 1 ½ tablespoons of beef base, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of dried basil.

Base Ingredients List

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 4 medium-sized carrots
• 3 stalks of celery
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 5 cups of water
• 1 can of low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can of kidney beans

Seasoning Measurements

For flavor, use 1 ½ tablespoons of beef base, 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of dried basil, 1 tsp of dried parsley, ½ tsp of dried oregano, ½ tsp of garlic powder, and ½ tsp of pepper.

Cooking Time Guidelines

Cook the soup for 20-30 minutes. This will make the veggies tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, for a comforting dinner.

Browning and Seasoning the Ground Beef

Browning the ground beef is crucial when making a homemade soup. It enhances the meat’s flavor. Cook the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks.

For a healthy soup recipe, choose lean ground beef with 93/7 fat content. This makes the soup healthier and tastier. Add salt, black pepper, and seasonings like garlic powder for extra flavor.

Here are some tips for browning and seasoning the ground beef:

• Use a large pan to prevent the ground beef from steaming instead of browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent even browning.
• Break up the ground beef into small pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.

By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious and flavorful homemade soup. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste and texture.

Creating the Perfect Soup Base

To make a delicious one-pot meal, start with a flavorful soup base. This is the foundation of your dish. It gives your soup its depth and richness. Use a mix of ingredients to add layers of flavor.

Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. This creates a solid base. Then, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add tomato paste, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce next. These add a rich, savory flavor.

Next, add your liquid ingredients. Use low-sodium beef broth and red wine for a rich broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for at least 20 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste.

Building Flavor Layers

To build flavor layers, add different ingredients at different times. For example, sautéed mushrooms or carrots towards the end. This keeps their texture and flavor. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for a bright flavor.

Proper Liquid Ratios

Getting the right liquid ratios is key. You want enough liquid to cover all ingredients but not too much. Use about 6 cups of liquid for every 2 pounds of ingredients. This creates a rich, flavorful broth that’s just right.

Seasoning Balance Tips

Seasoning balance is crucial in your soup. You want flavors that are balanced and harmonious. Use salt, pepper, and herbs to add depth and complexity. Taste and adjust as you go to get the flavors just right.

Adding and Cooking Vegetables

When making a hearty soup recipe like Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef, it’s key to add and cook the veggies right. Web sources say to add the veggies to the soup base and cook until they’re tender. The soup cooks for about 20 to 25 minutes until the veggies are fork-tender.

To get the best texture and taste, mix fresh and frozen veggies. This is common for ease and availability. Carrots, potatoes, and green beans are great for Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef. Add them to the pot with olive oil, onion, and garlic for extra flavor.

Here are some tips for adding and cooking veggies in your Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef:

• Use a variety of colorful veggies to boost the soup’s nutrition.
• Cook the veggies until they’re tender but still crisp.
• Choose low sodium beef broth to keep sodium levels in check.

By following these tips, you can make a tasty and healthy Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef. Remember to simmer the soup for at least 15 minutes before adding frozen veggies. Then, cook for another 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying your vegetable soup with ground beef is easy. Just remember to store and reheat it right. This comfort food stays delicious for days or even after freezing.

First, cool the soup completely. Then, put it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for 3 days or freeze it for 3 months. Always heat it to 165°F when you reheat it for safety.

Refrigeration Methods

For a few days, refrigeration works best. Just put the cooled soup in a covered container and chill it. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a cozy meal.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is perfect for longer storage. Make sure to leave space at the top of the container for expansion. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat it.

Reheating Best Practices

Reheating your soup is simple. You can use the microwave or stovetop. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring each time, until it’s hot. On the stovetop, heat it over low, stirring often, until it’s warm.

By following these tips, your vegetable soup with ground beef will be a satisfying dinner. It’s safe to store and reheat, making it a comforting choice.

Recipe Variations and Customization

Making a delicious homemade soup is all about endless possibilities. You can change the recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs. For a low-carb version, try using less potatoes or swap them with veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.

For a spicy twist, add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also try different meats like ground turkey or pork for a new flavor. Adding cooked rice or barley can make the soup more filling.

Low-Carb Options

• Reduce the amount of potatoes or substitute with lower-carb vegetables
• Add more protein-rich ingredients like ground beef or turkey
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to reduce calories

Spicy Alternatives

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Diced jalapenos or serrano peppers can also add heat. For more ideas, check out this website.

Different Meat Choices

Try different meats to find your favorite flavor. Options include ground turkey, pork, or lamb. Mixing meats can make your soup hearty and satisfying.

The secret to a great soup is using quality ingredients and being creative. With a bit of imagination, you can make a soup that’s both delicious and tailored to your taste and diet.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

There are many ways to serve your tasty vegetable soup with ground beef. You can enjoy it as a one-pot meal or add some crusty bread or a side salad. This family-friendly recipe for soup is great for casual dinners or gatherings.

Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

• Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal
• Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter option
• Offer with egg salad sandwiches for a satisfying meal

You can also make your soup your own by adding or swapping ingredients. This makes it a perfect family-friendly recipe for soup that everyone will love. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a hit at home. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Here are some nutritional benefits of your soup:

1. High in protein from the ground beef
2. Rich in vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables
3. Good source of fiber from the barley and other ingredients

Conclusion

Making a tasty Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef is a fun cooking adventure. Just follow the easy steps and use the right ingredients. You’ll get a hearty soup recipe that warms your heart and tastes amazing.

This dish is great because you can change it to fit your taste. It’s perfect for families and can be made many times.

This Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef is perfect for cold days or meal prep. It’s full of rich flavors, tender beef, and colorful veggies. Plus, it’s easy to freeze and reheat, making it perfect for busy days.

Ready to start? Get your ingredients ready and dive into this hearty soup recipe. Enjoy the cozy warmth and health benefits of Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQ

What are the benefits of making vegetable soup with ground beef at home?

Making vegetable soup with ground beef at home is good for you. It’s also cheaper and you can make a lot at once.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make vegetable soup with ground beef?

You’ll need a big Dutch oven or soup pot. Also, various utensils and spices are necessary.

How do I select the perfect ingredients for vegetable soup with ground beef?

Choose quality ground beef and the best vegetables. Don’t forget the herbs and seasonings.

What are the preparation steps before cooking the vegetable soup with ground beef?

First, brown the ground beef. Then, prepare the vegetables before cooking the soup.

What is the best recipe for vegetable soup with ground beef?

The best recipe has a list of ingredients, seasoning amounts, and cooking times.

Why is it important to brown and season the ground beef properly?

Browning and seasoning the ground beef gives the soup its perfect color and taste.

How do I create the perfect soup base for vegetable soup with ground beef?

To make the perfect soup base, focus on flavor layers, liquid ratios, and seasoning balance.

What is the best way to add and cook the vegetables in the soup?

Use the best vegetables and cook them right. This ensures they’re tender and flavorful.

How should I store and reheat the vegetable soup with ground beef?

Store and reheat the soup correctly. This keeps its flavor and texture.

What recipe variations and customization options are available for vegetable soup with ground beef?

You can try low-carb, spicy, or different meat options. This lets you customize the recipe.

What are some serving suggestions and pairing options for vegetable soup with ground beef?

Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad. This makes it a full meal.