My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a cherished family recipe that has graced our dinner table for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and filling, as well as special family gatherings where everyone gathers around for seconds.

What makes this soup so special? It’s not just the delicious blend of flavors; it’s also the memories tied to it. I can still picture my mom stirring the pot on chilly afternoons, filling our home with the aroma of savory beef and fresh vegetables. This soup is easy to make and even easier to love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With just a bit of chopping and seasoning, you can set this soup to simmer while you go about your day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful veggies and tender beef, making it a hit for everyone at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This soup freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy homemade comfort any time you need it.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Each spoonful is packed with flavor, warmth, and nostalgia that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

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 parts about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand or what flavors your family loves.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Go vegetarian: Leave out the meat altogether and add extra beans or lentils for protein.

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. Place it in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cooking it on LOW for about 10 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully while making the meat tender enough to shred effortlessly with two forks. This step is essential because it gives your soup its rich base.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add in your chopped carrots and frozen seasoning blend. Sauté until they’re tender—this brings out their natural sweetness and sets a delicious foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring all those flavors together! Add in the shredded beef from your slow cooker, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture up to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover your pot. Let it simmer for about an hour. This gentle cooking method helps all those wonderful flavors develop fully!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup cooks, feel free to add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency. This way, every bowl will be just right!

And there you have it! A lovely pot of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Happy cooking!

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

Making a delicious pot of soup is both an art and a science, so here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get it just right!

• Use Quality Beef: Choosing a good-quality pot roast will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Look for cuts with marbling, as they tend to be more tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allowing the beef to slow-cook for a full 10 hours makes all the difference. This process breaks down the meat fibers, resulting in a tender and juicy roast that shreds beautifully.

• Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix a soup that’s too salty!

• Add Fresh Herbs: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They provide a fresh burst of flavor that complements the hearty vegetables.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale can add variety and nutrition to your soup!

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

Serving this comforting bowl of goodness is all about enhancing its heartwarming qualities. Here are some delightful ways to present it!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Croutons: A sprinkle of crunchy croutons provides texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft vegetables.
• Grated Cheese Alternative: A sprinkle of plant-based cheese can be melted on top for an extra creamy finish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: These are classic companions! The gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the hearty broth.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory notes in the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but a cherished moment around your dinner table. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can easily whip up a big batch of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup and enjoy it throughout the week or stockpile it for those busy days.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for freezing.
• Leave about an inch of space at the top of containers or bags to allow for expansion.
• Freeze the soup for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Add a splash of water or broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different type of meat for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses pot roast, you can substitute it with stew meat or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. This soup is very versatile!

Is My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers and follow the freezing instructions provided above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back fond memories. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick lunch during a busy week, this soup is sure to please everyone. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your favorite veggies. Happy cooking!