Quick and Easy Vegetable Beef Soup

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It combines lean ground beef and turkey for a lighter yet still satisfying base. The diced tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor, while the frozen mixed vegetables bring a burst of freshness. The combination of seasonings creates the perfect balance, and it’s a great way to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this soup checks all the boxes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• ½ onion, chopped
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder (such as Lawry’s®)
• 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon finely ground black pepper, or to taste
• 3 ½ teaspoons beef base (such as Better Than Bouillon®)
• 2 (12 ounce) packages frozen mixed vegetables

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and ground turkey. Cook and stir until the meat is completely browned, about 7 to 10 minutes.
2. Stir in the chopped onion and continue to cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat from the pot and return the pot to medium heat.
4. Pour in the water and canned diced tomatoes. Add garlic powder, sea salt, basil, and black pepper. Stir in the beef base to enhance the flavor.
5. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the pot and stir well.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Swap the Meat: Use all beef or all turkey if you prefer one over the other, or substitute ground chicken for a lighter option.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies like corn, green beans, or potatoes for additional flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy version of this soup.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef base and substitute the meat with lentils or beans.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn can be used in place of the frozen mixed veggies. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

Canned diced tomatoes work best for this soup, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just be sure to chop them finely and adjust the cooking time.

Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?

Yes! You can add small pasta (like elbow macaroni) or cooked rice toward the end of cooking for added heartiness. Be sure to adjust the liquid level if adding pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño to bring some heat to the soup.

Can I use beef broth instead of beef base?

Yes, you can use beef broth instead of beef base, but the flavor may be slightly different. Beef base adds a more concentrated beef flavor.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef base. Add more vegetables and beans to make up for the protein.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights or chilly afternoons. With its hearty mix of lean meats, vegetables, and comforting seasonings, it’s a go-to recipe that’s easy to make and full of goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to tweak it to suit your preferences! Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing leftovers for the week, this soup will always hit the spot.

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