My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to bring comfort to your table, look no further than My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s delicious, but also because it brings back memories of family gatherings and chilly evenings spent around the dinner table. The aroma that fills your kitchen while this soup simmers is simply irresistible!

This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty, or for those family get-togethers where everyone gathers around to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option that freezes beautifully—just like Mom used to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps and easy ingredients, you’ll find this recipe a breeze to whip up.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a good soup! It’s nutritious and packed with veggies that kids will enjoy too.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup makes plenty, meaning you can freeze leftovers for future meals—always a time-saver!
• Heartwarming flavor: The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a comforting and satisfying taste that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are easy to find at your local grocery store and come together beautifully in this delicious soup.

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. Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences!

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add different veggies: Feel free to toss in any of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love heat!
• Try different broths: Experiment with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.

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

Step 1: Season and Cook the Roast

Start by seasoning your pot roast generously with salt and pepper. This step is key as it enhances the flavor of the meat. Place the roast in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth. Cooking on LOW for about 10 hours allows the meat to become tender and flavorful. Once it’s done, shred it using two forks—this will be the heart of your soup!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and frozen seasoning mix (or onions). Sautéing these until they are tender helps develop their natural sweetness and brings out their flavors—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those wonderful ingredients together! Stir in the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper. This mixture creates a beautiful medley of flavors that will simmer together perfectly.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring everything to a boil over high heat before lowering the temperature. Cover and let it simmer gently for about an hour. This step allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully. Don’t forget—you can always add more water if it gets too thick while cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done simmering, give your soup a final taste test and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot! Whether enjoyed alone or paired with some crusty bread, My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is sure to warm your heart—and fill your home with delightful aromas!

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

Making a hearty soup is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your soup game!

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Using a pot roast not only adds richness but also becomes tender after slow cooking, giving your soup a delightful texture.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allowing the roast to cook slowly for about 10 hours ensures it shreds beautifully and infuses the broth with deep flavors, making each spoonful comforting.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or any favorites you have on hand. This flexibility keeps the soup exciting and allows you to use up leftover produce.

• Taste as You Go: Salt and pepper can make a world of difference! Remember to taste your soup during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed for balanced flavors.

• Make it Ahead: This soup freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and store half in the freezer for those cozy nights when you need a quick meal.

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

Serving this delightful soup is just as important as making it! Here are some simple yet appealing ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
• Croutons or Toasted Bread: A sprinkle of croutons on top gives a nice crunch, while toasted bread on the side is perfect for dipping!

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as an excellent accompaniment for scooping up those last delicious bites of soup.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving a small bowl of rice or quinoa can make this meal even heartier while providing an extra source of fiber.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing of a gooey grilled cheese sandwich brings back nostalgic feelings and creates a comforting dining experience.

Now you’re all set to enjoy My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in style! Whether it’s for a family dinner or cozy night in, this recipe is bound to warm hearts and fill bellies.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep! With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s a dish you can enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Consider dividing into smaller portions for easy access during the week.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add a wonderful flavor. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking. You could also serve with hot sauce on the side.

Is there a way to make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the pot roast with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

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

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

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 heartwarming dish filled with memories and love. Whether shared with family or enjoyed alone, this soup brings comfort in every bowl. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create something special—happy cooking!