A Classic Comfort Food with a Rich History

Hearty ground beef vegetable soup has long been a staple in American kitchens, tracing its popularity back to the 20th century as an economical yet nourishing dish. Families often used simple pantry staples and seasonal vegetables to stretch meals affordably. What makes this soup timeless is its ability to feed a crowd with wholesome ingredients while filling your home with comforting aromas. With ground beef as the star protein, it creates a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with sweet vegetables and tangy tomato sauce.

Why Ground Beef and Vegetables Make the Perfect Pair

Ground beef is not only flavorful but also packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. When combined with hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and celery, the soup becomes both balanced and satisfying. Each vegetable plays a role: carrots add natural sweetness, potatoes create a filling base, and peas provide bursts of freshness. Corn and green beans add color and texture, while tomatoes tie everything together with a zesty kick. This nutrient-dense combination makes the soup a wholesome dinner option that works for any season.

A Soup That Brings Families Together

This recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. Many home cooks remember their grandmothers simmering big pots of soup on the stove, feeding family and friends with love and warmth. What sets this hearty ground beef vegetable soup apart is its flexibility: you can swap out vegetables for what you have on hand, double the batch for meal prep, or freeze portions for later. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners simple while still tasting like it took hours to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 4 carrots, diced
• 4 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (15.25 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can green beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can peas, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can whole tomatoes, crushed
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• ⅛ teaspoon ground thyme
• ¼ cup water, as needed

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink (7–10 minutes). Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Stir in potatoes, corn, green beans, peas (with liquid), tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes. Season with black pepper, thyme, and a bay leaf for depth of flavor.

Step 4: Simmer Until Perfect

Add ¼ cup of water (more if needed for a soupy consistency). Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1 hour or until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g

Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even ground chicken makes a leaner version while still keeping the soup flavorful and filling.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, cornbread, or even a side salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender.