There’s something special about a warm bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup. This classic dish has been a family favorite for years, bringing comfort and warmth on chilly days. It’s a recipe that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, reminding you of home and love. With its rich broth packed with tender beef and colorful vegetables, this soup is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.

Why Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
When you think of comfort food, a hearty bowl of vegetable beef soup should be at the top of the list. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Packed with nourishing ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and healthy. It’s perfect for those fall and winter days when you crave something warm and fulfilling. Plus, it’s easy to make in a big batch, ensuring you have leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. This timeless dish is nutritious and feels like a warm memory: the laughter around the dinner table, the shared stories, and the aroma filling the house.
Why You’ll Love This My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Cozy Flavor with Everyday Ingredients
The beauty of this soup lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. You probably have most of them in your pantry right now! Beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery come together to create an incredibly delicious taste that satisfies any craving. The savory broth, flavored with herbs and spices, draws out the best in each ingredient, giving you a cozy sensation with every spoonful.
Quick to Make, Easy to Love
Despite its rich flavor, this soup doesn’t take hours to prepare. With straightforward steps and little fuss, you can whip up a big pot in no time. This is a true weeknight winner, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time cooking.
Ingredients and Substitutions
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you will need:
- 1 pound beef (chuck roast or stew meat)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Smart Swaps for Dietary Needs
If you’re looking to adapt the recipe, there are smart swaps you can make! Try using ground turkey for a lighter option or substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add your favorite greens or beans for added fiber and nutrients.
Smart Variation (Optional)
For a twist, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some red wine for extra depth of flavor. Experimenting with herbs like thyme or parsley can also elevate your soup!
How to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the beef over medium heat until it’s golden.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Pour in the beef broth and add potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes.
- Season with bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
- Discard bay leaves before serving.
Tips for Texture, Timing & Tools
For best results, use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking. If you have time, letting the soup simmer longer will create more depth in flavor. You can also use a slow cooker for this recipe—just set it on low for about 6-8 hours!
Storage & Reheating
How to Store It Right
Let any leftover soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Without Losing Flavor
Reheating is simple! On the stovetop, just simmer the soup until hot. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
A Dish Worth Making Again and Again
Each bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a reminder of home. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make often, not just for its flavor but for the memories shared over those warm bowls.
PrintMy Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
A classic family recipe for a comforting vegetable beef soup, perfect for chilly days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef (chuck roast or stew meat)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the beef over medium heat until it’s golden.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Pour in the beef broth and add potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes.
- Season with bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 60-90 minutes until the beef is tender.
- Discard bay leaves before serving.
Notes
For a lighter option, use ground turkey or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red wine for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as peas, green beans, or corn.
How can I thicken the soup?
For a thicker soup, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or some instant potato flakes.
Is this soup freezable?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure it’s stored in airtight containers.
How long will leftovers last?
In the refrigerator, leftovers should be eaten within 3 days. If frozen, they can last for about 3 months.
Final Thoughts
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a way to savor life’s simple pleasures. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home. Whip up a pot, and let this classic recipe fill your kitchen with warmth and love. Enjoy every spoonful!
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