My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl, you’ve come to the right place! My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. It’s the kind of soup that brings everyone together, whether it’s a chilly evening at home or a bustling family gathering. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients create a comforting meal that warms the soul.

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also practical! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it makes a generous batch, so you can easily freeze leftovers for those days when cooking feels like too much. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this soup simmering in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love this flavorful soup, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time or freeze portions for busy days.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean beef, this soup is as healthy as it is hearty.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of tender beef and fresh veggies creates a deliciously satisfying dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

For the Soup

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
• 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
• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of pot roast, try using lean ground beef or even chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit the meat for a delicious veggie version that’s still full of flavor!

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

Step 1: Cook the Roast

Season your pot roast generously with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor right from the start! Place it in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cooking on LOW for about 10 hours allows the meat to become super tender. Once done, shred it with two forks—this adds great texture to your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat up 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots along with your frozen seasoning mix. Sauté until they are tender—this process brings out their natural sweetness and builds layers of flavor for your soup.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time for all those wonderful ingredients to come together! Add in your shredded beef, chopped potatoes, remaining frozen veggies, leftover beef broth, tomato soup, and water. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Stir everything well so that all those flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about an hour. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together into something truly special.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup cooks away happily on the stove, feel free to add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency. This flexibility makes it easy to customize based on your family’s preferences!

With each step taken care of lovingly, you’ll soon be rewarded with a steaming bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup that’s sure to bring smiles around your table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Making a great soup is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your version of this classic dish turns out perfectly!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for a pot roast ensures that the meat becomes tender and flavorful during the long cooking process. The slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth beef.

• Don’t skip the sauté: Sautéing your carrots and seasoning blend before adding them to the pot enhances their flavors. This step caramelizes the natural sugars, adding depth to your soup.

• Adjust liquid levels wisely: Start with less water and add more as needed while simmering. This allows you to control the thickness of your soup, ensuring it doesn’t become too watery.

• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. Herbs can bring a fragrant aroma that complements the hearty vegetables and beef perfectly.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your soup to sit for about 15-20 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. It also gives you a chance to adjust seasoning if necessary!

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

Serving my mom’s vegetable beef soup is just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread alongside for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up that delicious broth!
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese can add creaminess and richness, making each bowl even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the heartiness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with soup. The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the warm, soft soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables offer a lovely side that complements the flavors in your soup while providing extra nutrients.
• Rice or Quinoa: A small serving of rice or quinoa can be served on the side or even stirred into the soup for added heartiness and fiber.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy a bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This comforting soup is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re looking to save time during a busy week or want to have something warm and hearty on hand, My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can easily be made ahead and stored for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that you might have about this delightful soup recipe!

Can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook the pot roast in a large pot on the stove. Just simmer it with broth until tender before shredding it and continuing with the recipe.

What vegetables can I add to My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Feel free to customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even leafy greens like spinach!

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

If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) while it’s simmering. Stir well to incorporate.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Yes! Fresh vegetables can be used; just chop them and add them according to their cooking times to ensure they remain tender yet crisp.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights at home. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!