Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. This hearty soup is brimming with tender beef and an array of nutritious vegetables, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to spend more time enjoying your meal rather than cooking.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and tender beef makes every spoonful a delight.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from the veggies and lean beef, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and serve!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure everything cooks evenly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for hands-off cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing their flavors.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for quickly chopping vegetables to save time during prep.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is loaded with wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously rich flavor profile.

For the Soup Base

• 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)

Seasonings

• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Broth and Vegetables

• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 pound potatoes (chopped, about 4 medium)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice, 14oz or 398ml)
• 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 Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful soup:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the cubed beef to the skillet.
2. Sear until browned on all sides.
3. Transfer the browned beef to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet:
1. Add carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Cook until the onion has softened.
3. Stir in tomato paste, garlic, salt, parsley, thyme, paprika, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer vegetable mixture from the skillet into the slow cooker with beef:
1. Add broth, potatoes, diced tomatoes (with juice), green beans, marinara sauce, corn, and bay leaf.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 4: Slow Cook Your Soup

Cover your slow cooker:
1. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until both beef and vegetables are tender.
2. Before serving, remove bay leaf and taste; adjust seasonings if desired.
3. Serve immediately or keep on warm until ready to serve.

This flavorful Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy each hearty bowl filled with nutrition and warmth.

How to Serve Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve this soup with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. The bread will soak up the rich broth beautifully.

Over Rice

• Spoon the soup over a bed of fluffy rice for a heartier meal. This adds texture and makes it even more filling.

Topped with Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

With Cheese

• Sprinkle grated cheese on top for added creaminess. Cheddar or mozzarella works well and melts nicely into the warm soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve with a light garden salad for a refreshing contrast. The crisp veggies will balance the hearty flavors of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds extra flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

To make your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup even better, consider these tips.

• Choose quality beef: Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck roast for richer flavor and tenderness.
• Prep veggies ahead: Chop vegetables in advance to save time on busy days. Fresh ingredients yield the best taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it yours!
• Use low-sodium broth: This helps control salt levels while still providing depth of flavor in your soup.
• Cook longer for tenderness: If you prefer super tender beef, let it cook closer to 8 hours on low.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the soup perfectly. Simply toast slices with garlic butter until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons adds crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory soups, offering a delightful texture.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooey cheese and crispy bread make for an indulgent side that everyone loves.
5. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add nutrition without overpowering the meal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the hearty soup.
7. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with veggies can add another layer of texture and health benefits.
8. Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Not browning the beef: Skipping this step can leave your soup lacking in depth of flavor. Always brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
• Overfilling the crockpot: If you fill it too much, cooking times can vary, leading to undercooked ingredients. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Initial seasoning may not be enough after cooking. Taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
• Choosing low-quality broth: The broth is crucial for flavor. Opt for a high-quality low-sodium broth to enhance your soup’s taste without overwhelming saltiness.
• Skipping the bay leaf: This ingredient adds unique flavor notes that elevate the dish. Don’t forget to include it during cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup.

What type of beef should I use for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)?

Choose cuts like chuck roast or stew meat for tenderness after long cooking times. They break down beautifully and add great flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes! Frozen veggies work well and save prep time. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is not only hearty and full of flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl that warms the soul!