Why Make This Recipe

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a perfect dish for busy days or chilly nights. It’s hearty and satisfying, making it a go-to option for meals with family or friends. This soup is not just about the flavor; it’s also loaded with nutritious vegetables and tender beef, providing a balanced meal in one bowl.

Cooking this soup in a crockpot allows the flavors to blend beautifully. The slow cooking process means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax or tackle other tasks. Plus, the smell of the soup simmering fills your home with warmth and comfort.

Equipment Needed for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

To make this delicious soup, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll require:

A large skillet
A 5- to 6-quart slow cooker
A cutting board
A sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
A spoon for stirring
A ladle for serving

What You Need to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

1 tablespoon oil
1 pound cubed beef (see notes in the post)
2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
2 ribs celery (finely chopped)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon pepper
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 pound potatoes (chopped, about 4 medium)
1 can diced tomatoes (with juice, 14 oz or 398 ml)
1 cup trimmed and chopped fresh or frozen green beans
¾ cup marinara sauce
½ cup canned or frozen corn
1 bay leaf

How to Cook Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup Step by Step

Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is warm, add the cubed beef to the skillet. It’s important to brown the beef on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat, making your soup taste even better. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker.

Next, you will prepare the vegetables. In the same skillet, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook them until the onion has softened and becomes translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, salt, dried parsley, dried thyme, paprika, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until the herbs release their flavors.

Once the vegetables are ready, transfer them from the skillet into the slow cooker with the beef. Now, add the broth to the slow cooker, followed by the chopped potatoes, diced tomatoes with their juice, green beans, marinara sauce, corn, and bay leaf.

After adding all the ingredients, give everything a good stir to mix. It’s essential to ensure that the beef and vegetables are well combined with the liquid. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. During this time, the beef and vegetables will become tender and flavorful. Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as desired. You can serve the soup immediately or keep it on warm until you’re ready to enjoy it.

How to Serve Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Serving Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is as easy as ladling it into bowls. This soup is thick and hearty, so you don’t need to worry about fancy presentation. Simply offer each guest a bowl topped with some fresh herbs like parsley for additional flavor or color.

For those who enjoy a little kick, you might consider providing hot sauce or pepper flakes on the side. This allows everyone to tailor their soup to their taste.

What to Serve with Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

This vegetable beef soup is a complete meal, but if you want to enhance your dining experience, consider serving it with some warm, crusty bread. A slice of sourdough or whole-grain bread pairs nicely with the soup, perfect for dipping.

You can also serve a light salad on the side. A simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Alternatively, some grilled cheese sandwiches can make for a nostalgic and comforting combo.

How to Store Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Storing leftover soup is easy! Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It’s recommended to portion the soup into smaller containers, making it easier to reheat later.

You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to label each container with the date it was made. If you want to keep your soup longer, consider freezing it. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat the frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

There are a few tips to ensure your vegetable beef soup turns out perfectly every time.

Using quality beef is essential. Choose cuts like chuck or round, which are ideal for slow cooking. These cuts become juicy and tender once cooked for several hours.

Don’t rush the browning process! Allowing the beef to brown properly enhances its flavor.

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it based on what you have on hand. Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more depth and nutrition.

Be cautious with the salt. If you’re using beef broth that’s not low-sodium, consider reducing the amount of salt you add. You can always taste and adjust before serving.

Variation

There are many ways you can adapt this recipe to your personal taste. If you prefer a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use a spicier marinara sauce.

For a different flavor profile, consider using Italian seasoning instead of dried parsley and thyme. This can give the soup a warm, rustic Italian touch.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the beef with lentils or beans. This would make the soup vegetarian, while still providing a hearty and satisfying meal.

Best Time to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for any time of year, but it’s especially comforting during fall and winter months. Cold, rainy days are made much brighter with a bowl of soup.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, too. You can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s ideal for busy weekdays when you need something hearty but don’t have time to cook every day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

One of the biggest mistakes is not browning the beef properly. Skipping this step can lead to a soup that lacks depth in flavor.

Another mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker. If you add too many ingredients, your soup may not cook evenly. Make sure to stick to the recipe or adjust the quantities accordingly.

Lastly, neglecting to taste the soup before serving can result in blandness. Always check the seasoning and make adjustments as necessary for the best flavor.

Nutritional Notes

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a nutritious option that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. Each serving is packed with nutrients from the vegetables, and the beef adds a good source of protein which is vital for muscle health.

The soup is also low in calories and saturated fat, especially if you opt for lean cuts of beef and low-sodium broth. It is a well-balanced meal that satisfies and nourishes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef; however, it’s best to thaw it before browning for optimal results.

Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference and what’s available.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Ensure that you use gluten-free beef broth and check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is an unbeatable comfort food that is both easy to prepare and rich in flavor. The slow cooking method allows all ingredients to meld together, creating a bowl of warmth perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s on chilly evenings or rushed weekdays, this soup provides nourishment with minimal effort. Try it today, and enjoy the deliciousness and comfort it brings!