Ground Beef Vegetable Soup (Easy Recipe)

Few things feel as welcoming as a pot of ground beef vegetable soup. Warm, nourishing, and robust, this classic recipe makes chilly evenings and busy weekdays a little more comforting. It’s the kind of dish people return to again and again—not only for its hearty taste but also for its ease, flexibility, and satisfying result. Whether you need a quick family dinner, a make-ahead meal, or something to stock your freezer, this soup checks every box.

Why Make Ground Beef Vegetable Soup?

Ground beef vegetable soup stands out for its simplicity and depth. It brings together ingredients you probably have on hand: ground beef, seasonal or frozen vegetables, a few pantry staples, and spices. With one pot and minimal fuss, you’ll create a meal that feels complete and homemade.

This soup works in all kinds of kitchens—use what you have, adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season, and dial up the seasoning to suit your taste. Beyond this, the recipe is cost-effective, perfect for meal prep, and appeals to both kids and adults. Let’s walk through every aspect of making and enjoying this beloved soup.

Ingredients

A nourishing soup begins with thoughtful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean or regular, based on your preference. Browning the beef adds depth.
Onion (1 large, diced): Adds savory foundation and aroma.
Carrots (2 large, peeled and sliced): For sweetness and color.
Celery (2 stalks, diced): Balances texture and flavor.
Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced): Yukon gold or russets work well; potatoes add heartiness.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile.
Green Beans (1 cup, chopped, fresh or frozen): Brings crunch and freshness.
Corn (1 cup, kernels, canned or frozen): Marks the soup with a hint of sweetness.
Peas (1 cup, fresh or frozen): For texture and gentle flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Provides rich, tangy base.
Beef Broth (6 cups): Adds savory depth; use low-sodium for more control.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, 8 oz): For richness and body.
Bay Leaf (1): Brings subtle herbal notes.
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): For earthiness.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Lifts all the flavors.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Helps with browning and sautéing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. If your ground beef is very lean, add a splash of olive oil. Crumble the beef into the pot and brown it, stirring with a spoon to break it into small pieces. Once fully browned (about 7 minutes), drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté Aromatics and Base Veggies

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the browned beef. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Soup

Add diced potatoes, green beans, corn, peas, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together. Drop in the bay leaf and sprinkle in the thyme, then season generously with salt and pepper. Give the pot a gentle stir to blend the flavors.

4. Simmer and Develop Flavor

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35-45 minutes. The potatoes and carrots should be tender, and the flavors infused throughout. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Taste and Finish

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve

Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot. Offer with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Variations and Tips for Success

This recipe welcomes creativity. Use your favorite vegetables or swap grains for potatoes if you’re looking to change things up. Here are some useful variations and tips:

Add More Vegetables

Bell peppers, zucchini, kale, or spinach work beautifully, especially in summer.
Canned diced tomatoes replace crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Root vegetables (parsnip, turnip) deepen the earthy flavor profile.

Amp Up Seasonings

A dash of smoked paprika boosts savory notes.
Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Stir in a little Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.

Protein Options

Substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Use ground pork or sausage for a heartier meal.

Grain Swaps

Replace potatoes with cooked barley, rice, or pasta.
Stir cooked quinoa or lentils into the soup for added nutrition.

Pro Cook’s Tip Table

Ingredient	Best Swap	Why Try It?
Ground beef	Turkey	Lighter, slightly sweet
Potatoes	Barley	Chewy texture, fiber-rich
Green beans	Zucchini	Softer, subtle flavor
Beef broth	Veg broth	Vegetarian-friendly version

Meal Prep, Storage, and Freezing

Few soups store and reheat as well as this one. Here’s how to make the most of leftovers:

In the Refrigerator

Allow soup to cool fully. Place in a sealed container.
Store up to 4 days for best flavor and texture.

In the Freezer

Portion cooled soup into freezer-safe zip-top bags or airtight containers.
Lay flat to maximize freezer space, and label with the date.
Soup keeps well for up to 6 months.

Reheating Tips

For individual servings, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
For larger amounts, warm gently on the stove over medium-low, stirring often.

Serving Ideas

Pair this soup with crusty bread, warm biscuits, or a simple green salad. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over each bowl for a savory lift, or swirl in a spoonful of pesto before serving. For a kid-friendly twist, add a handful of cooked small pasta shells or alphabet noodles.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Soup Too Thin?

Let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce. Potatoes, grains, or an extra spoonful of tomato paste can quickly thicken.

Too Thick?

Add more broth or water to loosen. Warm through before serving.

Want More Flavor?

Don’t skimp on browning the beef and sautéing vegetables; these steps layer in savory notes that set your soup apart.

How to Personalize Your Soup

Every home cook develops their own signature spin. Try tossing in a cheese rind while simmering, adding a splash of hot sauce, or using a different seasoning blend for your own unique version.

For extra freshness, finish bowls with chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice. If making ahead, store herbs separately and add only at serving.

Ground beef vegetable soup earns its place at the family table with ease, heart, and comfort. It’s a dinner you can stretch for days, reinvent with leftovers, or share with a crowd. One big pot supplies a week’s worth of lunches, or an easy answer to “what’s for dinner?” With its rich flavors, smart flexibility, and satisfying texture, this recipe makes any day just a bit warmer.

Dive in, make it your own, and enjoy the timeless comfort of this easy ground beef vegetable soup.