My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth that feels like a hug on a chilly day, then My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is just what you need. This soup has been a staple in our family for as long as I can remember, and it never fails to bring everyone together around the dinner table. With its hearty mix of vegetables and tender beef, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. You can even make a big batch to freeze for later—trust me, nothing beats pulling out a homemade soup on a cold evening!

There’s something truly special about this recipe. Not only does it evoke fond memories of my mom cooking in the kitchen, but it also fills your home with the most wonderful aroma. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: This soup is packed with vegetables and savory beef that even picky eaters will love.
• Make-ahead convenience: It’s perfect for meal prep—make it ahead and freeze for quick dinners later!
• Delicious flavor: The blend of fresh ingredients and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is super simple! These are all wholesome items you can find at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into 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 this soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for beef, try using chicken or turkey instead—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in extra greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to spice things up!
• Try different broths: Switch out the beef broth for vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter option.

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 along with half a can of beef broth. Cooking it low and slow for about 10 hours allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s done, shred it with two forks—this step ensures every bite is tender and juicy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a very large pot, heat about 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add your chopped carrots and frozen seasoning mix. Sauté them until they’re tender; this brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are nice and soft, it’s time to add the shredded beef back into the pot. Toss in the chopped potatoes along with the remaining frozen veggies, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and an additional can of water. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Bring your mixture to a boil over high heat. Then lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for about an hour. This gives all those wonderful flavors time to combine beautifully while making your kitchen smell incredible!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup simmers away, keep an eye on its consistency. If you’d like it thinner, feel free to add more water as desired while it cooks.

Now that you’ve made My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, gather around with friends or family and enjoy every warm spoonful!

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

Making a hearty soup like this one is all about the little details that make a big difference. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly!

• Use fresh vegetables when possible: While frozen veggies are convenient, using fresh ones can enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, making it more vibrant and nutritious.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or even herbs like thyme or rosemary as the soup cooks. This personal touch will elevate the flavor profile and ensure it’s just right for you.

• Let it simmer longer for richer flavor: If you have extra time, allowing the soup to simmer longer than an hour can deepen the flavors as they meld together beautifully.

• Shred the beef finely: When shredding your roast, try to make the pieces smaller. This helps distribute the beef evenly throughout the soup and makes each spoonful packed with flavor.

• Freeze portions for later: This recipe makes quite a bit! Consider freezing leftovers in individual portions so you can enjoy a warm bowl on chilly days whenever you want.

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.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing flavor that complements the heartiness of the soup.
• Grated cheese: If you enjoy cheese, a light sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top adds creaminess and richness that pairs delightfully with the savory broth.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It soaks up all those delicious flavors and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Cheesy garlic biscuits: These fluffy biscuits offer an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with any kind of soup. Their buttery garlic flavor enhances every bite!
• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies brings additional nutrition and texture to your meal, making it wholesome and delightful.

Enjoy crafting this classic dish and sharing it with loved ones! Whether it’s enjoyed on a cozy night in or during family gatherings, My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is that it’s perfect for meal prep! It makes a hearty batch that you can enjoy throughout the week, saving you time on busy days. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.
• For optimal quality, consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Have questions about making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! In fact, using a slow cooker enhances the flavors. Simply follow the initial cooking instructions for the roast in your slow cooker and then combine everything else in the pot as directed.

What vegetables can I add to My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

You can get creative! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the veggies you choose.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for 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! This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm reminder of home and family gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving some for later, I’m sure this soup will bring comfort to your table. Happy cooking!