My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, look no further than My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. This recipe is special to me because it brings back fond memories of family dinners where we would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over steaming bowls of soup. It’s a classic that never fails to warm the soul, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a bit of prep work, you can have a wholesome meal simmering away in your kitchen. Plus, it makes enough to freeze, which means you can enjoy this tasty dish whenever you need a quick and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you can have a hearty soup that’s full of flavor.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful veggies and tender beef.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup freezes beautifully, so you can whip it out on busy nights.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of vegetables and beef creates a comforting taste that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a breeze! These are all simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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 can be. You can easily adjust the ingredients according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for something lighter, try using chicken instead of beef.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in any extra vegetables you love, like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Make it spicier: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Switch up the broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version that still packs great flavor.

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

Step 1: Season and Cook the Roast

Season your pot roast generously with salt and pepper. Place it in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth. Cooking on LOW for about 10 hours allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful. Once it’s done, shred it with two forks—this step is crucial because shredded beef mixes beautifully with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped carrots and frozen seasoning blend until they are tender. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring all those delicious flavors together! Add your shredded beef, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to combine all those vibrant ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover your pot. Let it simmer for about an hour so all those flavors meld together beautifully. Check occasionally and add water if needed; this helps keep everything nice and soupy!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your soup has simmered away for an hour, it’s ready! Ladle it into bowls while it’s hot and enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones around you. Don’t forget—this recipe makes enough to share or save for later!

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

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Choose Quality Meat: Using a good cut of beef, like a chuck roast, ensures extra flavor and tenderness when shredded. The quality of your meat can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the soup.

• Enhance the Broth: Instead of using plain water, opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth. This adds depth to the flavor profile and enriches the entire dish.

• Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap out frozen vegetables for fresh ones if you have them on hand. Fresh produce often brings a brighter flavor and texture to your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper when cooking; you can always add more at the end. This allows you to control the flavor better without overwhelming the dish.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your soup sit for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier bowl of soup!

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

Serving this comforting soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present your delicious creation that will surely impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Croutons: Adding crunchy croutons provides texture and makes for a fun contrast with the smooth broth.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top (like cheddar or mozzarella) can enhance creaminess and richness in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful soup. It complements the heartiness of the vegetable beef mix beautifully.

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the soup while adding refreshing crunch.

• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are always a hit! They are perfect for sopping up every last drop of that delicious broth.

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! The gooeyness of melted cheese between crispy bread goes hand-in-hand with warm bowls of soup for that ultimate comfort meal.

Enjoy making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! It’s not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or stash some away for those colder days when you crave something comforting.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Always label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Leave a little space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label and date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, reheat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

If you have questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add great flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them until tender before adding them to the soup.

How can I adjust the recipe if I want a thicker consistency for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can either let it simmer uncovered for longer or add some cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired thickness.

Can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply follow your pressure cooker’s guidelines and reduce cooking time significantly. Usually, around 30-40 minutes will do on high pressure.

What sides pair well with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

A crusty bread or a light salad makes excellent accompaniments. You could also serve it with some warm biscuits for a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The warmth and comfort that come from each spoonful remind me of home. So gather those ingredients and create this lovely dish that is sure to warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!