My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a cherished recipe that brings back sweet memories of family gatherings and chilly evenings spent around the dinner table. It’s one of those magical dishes that makes your house smell incredible and invites everyone in to share a bowl. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with loved ones, this soup is always a hit.

What I love most about this soup is how simple it is to make while still being packed with flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time! You can whip up a big batch and freeze some for later, which I often do when the weather turns cold. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for those hectic days when you need a comforting meal without much fuss.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty vegetables and tender beef, even picky eaters will find something to love in every spoonful!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook a large pot and freeze leftovers for busy nights. Just reheat and enjoy!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh veggies and savory broth creates a rich, satisfying flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. This list is full of goodness that will nourish both body and soul!

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! You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Different Veggies: Feel free to toss in whatever vegetables you love or have available—zucchini or bell peppers work wonderfully!
• Swap the Protein: If you’re not in the mood for beef, try using chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Spice It Up: If you like some heat, add in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Change the Broth: Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth can create a lighter version while still being delicious.

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

Step 1: Season and Cook the Roast

Start by seasoning your pot roast generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the beef as it cooks. Place it in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth. Cooking on LOW for about 10 hours allows the meat to become tender and easy to shred later on. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat up 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add in your chopped carrots and frozen seasoning mix. Sauté until everything is tender—this step brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Once your veggies are sautéed, it’s time to add all the goodness! Stir in the shredded beef from your slow cooker along with chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper. Mixing these together ensures that every ingredient gets coated in deliciousness.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about an hour. This slow simmer allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup cooks, feel free to add more water if it looks too thick for your liking. Stir occasionally so that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot—you want every bite bursting with flavor!

And there you have it—My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! Serve it hot with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal that brings warmth to any table. Enjoy!

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

Making a hearty soup like this one can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables. They add vibrant flavor and nutrients to your soup, making it even more delicious and wholesome.

• Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then adjust as needed during cooking. This allows you to control the seasoning better and prevents over-salting.

• Let It Simmer: After bringing your soup to a boil, make sure to let it simmer gently. This slow cooking process helps the flavors meld beautifully, giving you a richer taste.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other vegetables based on what you have at home or what’s in season. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even cabbage can bring new dimensions to your soup.

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge; the flavors will deepen and develop beautifully.

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

Serving this comforting soup is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Croutons: A sprinkle of crunchy croutons on top creates a delightful contrast in texture while enhancing the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It adds heartiness and complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup. Use mixed greens and add cucumber and cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
• Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins pair beautifully with savory soups. Their slight sweetness complements the hearty flavors of the vegetable beef soup perfectly.
• Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also provides a bright pop of color on your dinner table.

I hope these tips enhance your cooking experience and make serving this delightful soup an occasion worth celebrating! Enjoy every spoonful of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup with those you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious homemade soup ready for those busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste and texture.
• For easier thawing, consider freezing in single-serving portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

If you’re curious about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, here are some common questions I’ve received.

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

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add more flavor and texture. Just chop them into similar sizes as the frozen ones and adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they become tender.

How long does My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to check for freshness before enjoying your leftovers!

Can I substitute other meats in this vegetable beef soup recipe?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you could substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times based on the meat you choose.

Is My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and tomato soup. Always check labels to make sure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.

What can I serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. It’s comfort food at its best!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen just as it has done in mine over the years. My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day. Enjoy making it for your family and friends, and don’t forget to share your experiences! Happy cooking!

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