My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your soul, look no further than My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! I can still remember the cozy aroma wafting through our kitchen as it simmered on chilly evenings. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings, where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy something delicious and hearty. Plus, it makes a big batch that you can freeze for those days when you want something easy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delightful pot of soup ready for your family.
• Family favorite: Kids love the colorful veggies and tender beef, making it an instant hit for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup freezes beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it later!
• Healthy comfort food: Packed with nutrients from vegetables, it’s both nourishing and satisfying—perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create this lovely 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 things about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this soup.
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a kick.
• Use fresh veggies: If you’re in season, substitute fresh vegetables for frozen ones—just adjust cooking times accordingly!

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

Step 1: Season and Cook the Roast

Start by seasoning your pot roast with salt and pepper. Place it in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cooking it low and slow for about 10 hours helps break down the meat fibers, making it tender enough to shred effortlessly with two forks.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

In a very large pot, add about one tablespoon of oil and sauté the carrots along with the frozen seasoning mix until they’re tender. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural flavors and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add shredded beef from your slow cooker, chopped potatoes, remaining veggies, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and water into your large pot. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Stir well; this is where all those delicious flavors start mingling.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Bring your mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once bubbling away happily, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about an hour. This allows all those wonderful flavors to merge together beautifully.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup cooks, keep an eye on its thickness. Feel free to add more water if desired while it simmers. The goal here is a hearty but not overly thick soup that invites everyone back for seconds!

Now you’re ready to serve up bowls of warmth filled with love! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish that truly feels like home.

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

Making a great soup is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just like my mom’s.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using a pot roast allows for tender, juicy meat that shreds beautifully. This cut is perfect for slow cooking, resulting in rich flavors throughout the soup.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the carrots and seasoning blend. This step enhances their flavors and adds depth to your soup, making it taste even better!

• Quality broth matters: Opt for a good-quality beef broth or homemade broth if you have it. The base of the soup greatly influences its overall flavor, so choose something you would enjoy drinking on its own.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. This way, you can control the flavors better and ensure it’s perfectly seasoned.

• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, let your soup simmer for a bit longer than an hour. The flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

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

Serving this hearty vegetable beef soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also brightens up the flavors in each bowl.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread on top for dipping. It complements the rich broth wonderfully!

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! The melty cheese and crispy bread provide a delicious contrast to the warm soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette will refresh your palate between bites of hearty soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread adds a delightful texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with this comforting dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer an additional layer of warmth and nutrition, rounding out your meal beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to enjoy My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup like a pro! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup ahead of time, saving you time during busy weeknights. Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy it later without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and quality.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

Can I use different vegetables in My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on what you choose.

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

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!

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

Yes! You can definitely adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for about 45 minutes instead of using a slow cooker.

What should I serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Both options will complement the flavors perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! This recipe brings warmth and nostalgia, filling your home with delightful aromas. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying cozy nights in. Don’t hesitate to try it out—your taste buds will thank you!