My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. This easy-to-make soup recipe combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to freeze, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and tomato soup creates a depth of flavor that’s both hearty and satisfying.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store the leftovers in your freezer for quick meals later on.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have; this soup can be customized to fit your family’s preferences.
• Nourishing & Healthy: Packed with vegetables, this soup provides essential nutrients while being low in fat.

Tools and Preparation

To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you need a few simple tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for tenderizing the roast over long cooking times, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Large pot: Essential for combining all ingredients and simmering the soup evenly, ensuring everything cooks thoroughly.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer, speeding up your prep time.

Ingredients

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is one of my all-time favorite soup recipes. It’s super simple homemade soup recipe and makes enough to freeze!

Meat & Broth

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth

Vegetables

• 2 russet potatoes, chopped
• 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions)
• 1 bag frozen peas
• 1 bag frozen green beans
• 1 bag frozen corn
• 4 large carrots, chopped

Other Ingredients

• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

1. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
2. Place it in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth.
3. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until tender.
4. Shred the meat using two forks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped carrots and the frozen seasoning mix.
3. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add shredded beef, chopped potatoes, remaining frozen veggies, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper to the pot.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer.
3. Cover and let it cook for about an hour.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

1. Check the consistency of the soup as it cooks.
2. Add water as desired to reach your preferred thickness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup!

How to Serve My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping in the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add flavor with garlic bread that complements the savory notes of the soup.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness.
• Thyme or Basil: These herbs can enhance the overall flavor profile of the soup.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top your bowl with grated parmesan for a salty finish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar adds creaminess and richness to each serving.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad can balance the meal with freshness.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup even better, here are some tips that can help achieve perfect results every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for a richer flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook; this allows you to find the right balance of salt and spices.
• Let It Simmer Longer: If time allows, simmering longer can deepen the flavors even more.
• Add Fresh Veggies Last: For crunchier veggies, add them toward the end of cooking.
• Freeze in Portions: Store leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later on.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices like paprika or bay leaves for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Pairing side dishes with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this hearty soup well.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors in the soup.
2. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are great for sopping up every last drop of soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide added nutrients and texture.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit and add extra comfort to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a filling addition alongside your soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf is a mild side that pairs well without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season their soup adequately. Always taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper for the best flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is essential for a tasty soup. Opt for a high-quality beef broth or homemade broth to enhance the flavor.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; let your soup cook for at least an hour.
• Overcrowding with vegetables: While veggies add nutrition, adding too many can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Ignoring texture: Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Unevenly sized pieces can lead to some being mushy while others remain hard.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3–4 days in the fridge.

Freezing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure they are chopped evenly and added according to their cooking times.

How do I customize My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or beans. You can also adjust seasonings based on your preference.

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! It is packed with nutrients from various vegetables and lean beef, making it a wholesome choice.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors develop further!

Final Thoughts

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want extra veggies or different spices, this recipe is a canvas for your creativity. Try it out and enjoy a warm bowl that brings back memories!