Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

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Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!) is the perfect dish for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prepping for the week. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a hearty and healthy soup that is packed with tender beef and fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have at home.

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
  • Full of Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a healthy choice for any meal.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use leftovers to make this dish your own.
  • Family-Friendly: It’s a meal that even picky eaters will enjoy, making it great for families.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this hearty soup, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals while you’re busy with other tasks.
  • Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, ensuring maximum flavor in your dish.

Ingredients

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty and healthy recipe that takes just 15 minutes to prep! It’s loaded with chunks of tender beef and tons of veggies.

Protein

  • 1 pound cubed beef (see notes in the post)

Vegetables

  • 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
  • 2 ribs celery (finely chopped)
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 pound potatoes (chopped – about 4 medium)
  • 1 cup trimmed and chopped fresh or frozen green beans
  • ½ cup canned or frozen corn

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice – 14oz or 398ml)
  • ¾ cup marinara sauce

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

How to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown the beef on all sides until nicely seared.
  3. Place the browned beef in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the carrots, celery, and onion.
  2. Cook until the onion has softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, salt, parsley, thyme, paprika, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

  1. Transfer the sautéed vegetables from the skillet to the slow cooker with the beef.
  2. Add in the broth, potatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, green beans, marinara sauce, corn, and bay leaf.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

  1. Cover the slow cooker.
  2. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until both beef and vegetables are tender.
  3. Remove bay leaf before serving; taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup as a warm meal any day!

How to Serve Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Bread

  • Crusty Baguette: Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
  • Garlic Bread: Spread garlic butter on slices of bread and toast them for a flavorful complement.

Add a Side Salad

  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture that balances the warmth of the soup.
  • Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette can brighten up your meal.

Top with Cheese

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for a savory finish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melt some cheddar cheese for a gooey, comforting addition.

Garnish with Herbs

  • Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the soup for a fresh touch.
  • Thyme Sprigs: A few thyme sprigs can enhance the aroma and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup, consider these helpful tips.

  • Choose Quality Beef: Select tender cuts like chuck or brisket for better flavor and texture.
  • Sear the Meat: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its richness.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide better flavor compared to frozen options.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust spices based on your preference.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to cook on low ensures all flavors meld beautifully.
  • Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Enjoying side dishes alongside your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

  1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic that are perfect for dipping.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies and roast them until caramelized for added nutrition.
  3. Cornbread: Sweet, moist cornbread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups, adding texture.
  4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs provides a mild contrast to the robust flavors of the soup.
  5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains and cheese make a colorful and filling side.
  6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

  • Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
  • Not browning the beef: Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful soup. Browning enhances the taste significantly.
  • Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The soup may need extra salt or herbs after cooking. Taste before serving and adjust if necessary.
  • Overcooking vegetables: Cooking them too long can result in mushy veggies. Add delicate vegetables like green beans later in the cooking process.
  • Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality meat or canned goods can affect flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for a delicious outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing it tightly.

Freezing Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

  • Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup that might help you enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great! Just add them at the same time as fresh ones.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)?

Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.

Can I substitute different meats?

Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is not only full of flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring you always have a nutritious option on hand. Give it a try, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup (full of flavor!)


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this nutrient-dense soup combines tender beef and a vibrant mix of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. The rich flavors from the spices and fresh ingredients create a satisfying dish that everyone will love, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound cubed beef
  • 2 large carrots, chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound potatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ cup corn (canned or frozen)
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
  • Marinara sauce and various seasonings

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. Sauté carrots, celery, and onion in the same skillet for 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic and seasonings.
  3. Add sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with all other ingredients.
  4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours until beef and vegetables are tender.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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