Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If using stew beef, brown the chunks of beef in the same manner, allowing them to develop a rich sear. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the meat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion and garlic to the pot with the beef and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will build a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine. The tomato sauce adds richness, while the diced tomatoes provide a pop of freshness.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the hearty vegetables. Add the carrots, potatoes, frozen corn, and frozen peas to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring that the vegetables are submerged in the broth.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop, and the vegetables to cook until they’re tender. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Once the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Serve it with a side salad or a warm roll for a complete meal that will keep everyone satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with vegetables and beef, this soup is perfect for a satisfying meal that will stick with you.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, as everything is cooked in one pot!
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or celery based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup gets even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or for enjoying as leftovers.
