My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, 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 recipe; it’s a cherished family favorite that brings back memories of chilly evenings spent together around the dinner table. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and filling, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. Plus, it’s so simple to make that even novice cooks can whip it up with ease!

There’s something truly special about homemade soup; the aroma fills your home with warmth and love. I often find myself making this soup in large batches so I can freeze leftovers for those days when cooking feels like a chore. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe has been passed down through generations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This hearty soup is packed with veggies and beef, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It’s perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and freeze portions for later.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables simmered together creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful soup to life:

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

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for pot roast, try using shredded chicken or turkey instead!
• Add some spice: For a kick of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth along with extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to toss in whatever seasonal vegetables you love—zucchini or bell peppers would work wonderfully!

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 on low for about 10 hours makes sure that the meat becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred. This slow cooking process allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

In a very large pot, sauté your carrots and the frozen seasoning mix in 1 tablespoon of oil until they become tender. This step is important because sautéing helps release their natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time for magic! Add in the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, remaining vegetables, leftover beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything together well; each ingredient contributes its unique flavor to this delightful mix.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover it up while letting it simmer for about an hour. This gives all those wonderful flavors time to combine while making your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 5: Adjust as Needed

As your soup cooks away merrily on the stove, feel free to add more water if needed! Sometimes soups need adjustment as they cook down. Just keep an eye on its consistency until it’s perfect.

And there you have it—My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! Enjoy every spoonful as you savor not just its incredible taste but also all those heartwarming memories attached to each bowl.

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

Making a comforting bowl of soup can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some insights to elevate your cooking experience.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for a pot roast ensures that your meat becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks slowly, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
• Prep your veggies in advance: Chopping your vegetables ahead of time not only saves you effort during cooking but also allows them to soak in the flavors longer before they hit the pot.
• Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least an hour helps all the ingredients meld together, resulting in a rich and hearty flavor that’s truly comforting.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. This way, you can control the flavor and ensure it’s just right for your palate.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. This flexibility means you can enjoy this recipe any time of year!

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

Serving up this classic soup is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal even more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side gives guests an option to brighten their bowl with a squeeze of citrus.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup and adds a satisfying texture contrast.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed lightly in vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup beautifully.
• Cheesy garlic breadsticks: These are always a hit! The cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with each spoonful and makes for a cozy combo.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted veggies can serve as a nutritious side that adds extra flavor without overshadowing the main dish.

Enjoy creating memorable meals with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, perfect for sharing with family or savoring alone during those chilly evenings. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you’re planning ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If the soup thickens during storage, add a little water or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

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

Can I use different vegetables in My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale. Just ensure they are chopped into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

How long can I store My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in the fridge?

You can keep this delicious soup stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain its freshness!

Can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

What type of beef works best for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

A pot roast is ideal as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. You can also use chuck roast if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s a comforting classic that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Whether you share it with loved ones or enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe brings a touch of nostalgia and home-cooked goodness. Happy cooking!