Savory Beef and Vegetable Soup – A Hearty Meal for the Whole Family

Warm up with a bowl of this Savory Beef and Vegetable Soup, packed with ground beef, colorful veggies, and tender rice, all simmered in a flavorful broth. This soup is not only comforting and delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Full of rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

For the soup:

• 1 lb ground beef (or your preferred meat)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (green, red, or yellow)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup rice (long-grain white rice works well)
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   Start by chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and add great texture to the soup.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the beef and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
4. Simmer the Soup
   Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot along with the diced tomatoes (including juices), beef broth, and rice. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Finish and Serve
   Once the rice is cooked and the soup is ready, remove the pot from heat. Discard the bay leaf (if using) and taste the soup for seasoning, adjusting with more salt or pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and rice, this soup is a complete meal that’s both filling and nourishing.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The rich beef broth, paired with savory seasonings, makes this soup incredibly flavorful and perfect for warming up on a cold day.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with both adults and kids, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, green beans, or corn to suit your taste and increase the nutrition of the soup.
• Use Brown Rice for More Fiber: If you prefer a healthier version, you can swap out white rice for brown rice, which adds more fiber and a nutty flavor.
• Let It Rest: Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen and the soup to cool slightly for easier handling.

Conclusion

This Savory Beef and Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of savory beef, fresh vegetables, and tender rice, all in one hearty bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and will keep you satisfied. Try it today and enjoy a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!