Description
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort, this Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect! Packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is the ultimate weeknight dinner or meal prep favorite. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do all the work!
Ingredients
- Beef Stew Meat (1 ½ lbs) – Lean, tender chunks that become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For browning the beef (optional but adds flavor).
- Carrots (3, chopped) – Adds natural sweetness.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Enhances depth of flavor.
- Potatoes (2 large, diced) – Russet or Yukon Gold work best.
- Onion (1, chopped) – A key flavor base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the broth with a rich aroma.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Adds acidity and balance.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Deepens the richness of the broth.
- Beef Broth (4 cups) – The foundation of a flavorful soup.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a subtle umami boost.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – A mix of dried herbs for flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Enhances the depth of the broth.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust as needed.
- Frozen Green Beans (1 cup) – Added near the end for freshness.
- Frozen Corn (1 cup) – Sweet and delicious.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup) – A perfect finishing touch.
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef (Optional for Extra Flavor)
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step adds depth to the soup but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker. Add the seared beef, then pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and vegetables are soft.
4. Add Frozen Vegetables
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the green beans, corn, and peas. Let them heat through.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm!
Notes
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) / 4-5 hours (high)
- Cuisine: American