Warm up with a bowl of Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup—a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with tender beef, flavorful veggies, and a rich broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, and the best part? The crockpot does most of the work! Just set it, forget it, and come home to a delicious, homemade soup.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup
- Easy and Convenient: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hassle-free meal.
- Healthy and Hearty: Loaded with vegetables and lean beef, it’s a wholesome dish that fills you up.
- Perfect for Cold Days: A warm, satisfying soup that’s great for fall or winter evenings.
Ingredients for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen green beans
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (Crockpot): For cooking the soup low and slow.
- Cutting board and knife: To prep your vegetables.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring everything together.
How to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by chopping all your vegetables: dice the potatoes, slice the carrots and celery, and chop the onion.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- In the crockpot, add the beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes (with juice).
Step 3: Season the Soup
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cook on Low
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. If you’re in a hurry, cook on high for 4-5 hours.
Step 5: Add the Frozen Vegetables
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen corn, green beans, and peas. Stir to combine, and let them cook through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once everything is tender and cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this hearty soup with a slice of crusty bread or homemade biscuits for a complete meal.
- For extra richness, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup
- Brown the Beef First: For extra flavor, you can brown the beef stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini, cabbage, or even mushrooms.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance, and the flavors will deepen overnight.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef! Brown it in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot for best results.
Q2: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and double-check any broth labels.
Q3: Can I add pasta to the soup?
A: Yes, if you’d like, you can stir in cooked pasta at the end for a heartier meal. Just add it about 30 minutes before serving to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion: A Comforting, Hearty Soup!
This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. Loaded with tender beef, flavorful veggies, and a savory broth, it’s a simple meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Give it a try, and enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this slow-cooked classic!
