Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup – A Warm, Comforting Meal for Any Day

Looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week? This Beef and Vegetable Soup is packed with ground beef, colorful vegetables, and tender rice, all simmered in a flavorful broth. This cozy, hearty soup is easy to make and will keep you full and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup is the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, depending on preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (green, red, or yellow)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup rice (white or brown rice)
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   Begin by dicing the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that all the vegetables cook evenly and are easy to eat in each bite.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot with the cooked ground beef. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
4. Simmer the Soup
   Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the rice and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve the Soup
   Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of beef, vegetables, and rice creates a meal that’s both filling and nutritious, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
• Full of Flavor: The rich beef broth and seasoned vegetables infuse the soup with delicious flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly and is perfect for busy days or meal prep.
• Packed with Veggies: A great way to get in your daily servings of vegetables, this soup is full of color and nutrients.

Pro Tips for the Best Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Use Lean Ground Beef: To keep the soup lighter, use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier version.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or corn to customize the soup to your liking.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up.

Conclusion

This Beef and Vegetable Soup is a comforting, filling meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its savory beef, tender vegetables, and hearty rice, this soup offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. It’s the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed any time of year, whether you’re craving something warm on a cold day or just need a delicious meal. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of this hearty goodness!