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 one of those recipes that brings back sweet memories of family dinners and chilly nights. It’s a dish that just feels like home, perfect for busy weeknights or when you have a crowd to feed. Plus, it’s great for freezing—so you can enjoy this comforting soup whenever the craving strikes!

This recipe symbolizes love and tradition, and I’m excited to share it with you. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this soup simmering in no time!
• Family-friendly: Packed with veggies and hearty beef, even picky eaters will enjoy this classic comfort food.
• Make-ahead goodness: This soup freezes beautifully, so whip up a big batch and enjoy it later on those busy days.
• Deliciously satisfying: The rich flavors meld together beautifully, making each bowl a warm hug on a cold day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is all about using wholesome, simple ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 this soup is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of pot roast, try using lean ground beef or shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Go veggie-only: For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat entirely and replace beef broth with vegetable broth.
• Add your favorites: Toss in other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some herbs like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the flavor even more!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

Season your pot roast generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it enhances the overall flavor of your soup. Place the seasoned roast in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Set it on LOW for about 10 hours until it’s tender enough to shred with two forks.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add your chopped carrots and seasoning mix (or onions) and sauté until they are tender. This step allows their natural sweetness to emerge, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your vegetables are ready, add in your shredded beef along with the chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well—this is where all those lovely flavors start to mingle!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover your pot. Let it cook for about an hour so all those delightful ingredients can soften and blend their flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As it simmers away, keep an eye on it! If you feel like it’s getting too thick for your liking, add more water until you reach your desired consistency.

And there you have it! A hearty bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup that’s sure to bring comfort on any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful with those you love most!

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

Making this soup is a delightful and rewarding experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Choose quality beef: Selecting a good cut of beef, like a pot roast, ensures tender and flavorful meat that enhances the soup’s overall taste.

• Prep your veggies ahead of time: Chopping your vegetables in advance not only saves time during cooking but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. This method prevents over-seasoning and lets you achieve the perfect flavor profile.

• Use homemade broth if possible: If you have homemade beef broth on hand, it adds an incredible depth of flavor that store-bought cannot match.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the soup to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking helps all the flavors to develop even more, making every spoonful delicious!

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

Serving this comforting soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make your meal special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or thyme: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of shredded cheese on top melts beautifully into the hot soup and adds a creamy richness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up all that tasty broth.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the soup without overwhelming it.

• Cornbread muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup and are always a hit at dinner tables.

• Roasted vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies offers additional nutrients and flavors that pair wonderfully with the soup.

With these serving tips and garnishes, you’ll create an inviting meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy sharing this bowl of warmth with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup!

Can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in a pressure cooker?

Absolutely! You can speed up the cooking process by using a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes and then naturally release.

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

Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I adjust the seasoning in My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Taste your soup as it simmers. If you feel it needs more flavor, simply add more salt and pepper or your favorite herbs like thyme or bay leaves.

Can I use other types of meat instead of beef in this vegetable soup recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as my family does! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!