My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just any soup; it’s a heartwarming recipe filled with love and memories. This soup has been my go-to for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The aroma wafting through the kitchen takes me back to cozy evenings spent around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.

This recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you want something hearty yet simple. Plus, it makes a big batch, which means plenty of leftovers for lunch or even a meal prep option for those hectic weeks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few steps and a slow cooker, you can set this up and let it do its magic while you enjoy your day.
• Family-friendly appeal: Packed with veggies and tender beef, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: It freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime without the fuss.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of savory beef broth and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying taste that will warm your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. These are easy to find at your local grocery store, making this recipe both accessible and delicious!

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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If beef isn’t your favorite, try using chicken or turkey instead for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change up the veggies: Use whatever frozen vegetables you have in your freezer! Broccoli or zucchini would be great additions.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Season your roast with salt and pepper before placing it in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cooking it on LOW for about 10 hours allows the meat to become tender enough to shred easily with two forks. This step is essential as it gives your soup that rich beef flavor we all love!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, sauté carrots and your seasoning mix in 1 tablespoon of oil until they are tender. Sautéing these vegetables first helps release their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add in your shredded beef along with the chopped potatoes, remaining frozen veggies, leftover beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper. This is where all those flavors come together! Stir everything well so that each ingredient gets coated in that delicious broth.

Step 4: Let it Simmer

Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about an hour. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to check occasionally and add water if needed!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, serve hot! This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy this bowl of warmth knowing you’ve created something special that’s sure to make everyone feel at home!

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

Making a delicious soup is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just like my mom’s.

• Choose fresh vegetables: Using fresh, seasonal vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it even more delightful.

• Sauté first for flavor: Sautéing the carrots and seasoning mix before adding them to the pot helps to develop a richer flavor profile, giving your soup that classic homemade taste.

• Adjust liquid as needed: Every vegetable and meat can vary in moisture content. Keep an eye on the consistency while cooking, and feel free to add more water if you prefer a thinner soup.

• Let it simmer longer for depth: If you have time, let your soup simmer for an additional 30 minutes or so. This extra time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together.

• Freeze leftovers for later: If you end up with extra soup, store it in individual portions in the freezer. It makes for a quick and hearty meal on busy days!

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

Serving this comforting soup is half the fun! You can make it visually appealing and even more delicious with a few thoughtful touches.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the whole dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely aromatic kick that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It absorbs all those wonderful flavors and makes every bite satisfying.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup nicely.
• Garlic breadsticks: These provide a delightful crunch and are fantastic for sopping up any leftover broth in your bowl.
• Cheese quesadillas: Quick to prepare, cheese quesadillas offer gooey goodness that pairs well with the savory elements of the soup.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll elevate My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup into a truly special meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home! Enjoy digging in!

Make Ahead and Storage

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and have delicious, hearty meals ready to go throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy this comforting soup even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For small portions, use the microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• For larger amounts, reheat in a pot over medium heat on the stove, adding water if needed to reach desired consistency.
• Ensure the soup is heated through to 165°F before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

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

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture. Just chop and sauté them before adding them to the soup.

How can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup vegetarian?

You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and replace the pot roast with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. It will still be delicious!

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

It lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Can I add other ingredients to My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or grains like barley or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back memories of home. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, warming hearts and bellies alike. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!