Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  1. Chop Vegetables: Dice all vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Set them aside.
  2. Measure Spices: Pre-measure the thyme, basil, paprika, and salt to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat the Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess grease from the pot, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

  1. Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

  1. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and 1 cup of water if the soup needs more liquid.
  2. Season: Add the thyme, basil, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

  1. Hard Vegetables First: Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans to the pot. These require more cooking time than softer vegetables.
  2. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the harder vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Add Remaining Vegetables

  1. Corn, Peas, and Zucchini: Stir in the corn, peas, and zucchini. These cook quickly and should only need 5-7 minutes to become tender.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf before serving.
  2. Ladle into Bowls: Spoon the soup into individual bowls.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as cabbage, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Use Lean Ground Beef: Choose ground beef with a lower fat content to keep the soup lighter and healthier.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure the broth and tomato paste are gluten-free if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
  2. Versatile: You can adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
  3. Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, simple ingredients, this soup is a cost-effective meal option.
  4. Meal Prep-Friendly: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors, colorful vegetables, and tender beef make it a crowd-pleaser. With this detailed guide, you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready to warm you up and nourish your body. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite side for a complete dining experience!