When there’s a stomach bug going around, few things comfort the body and soul quite like a warm bowl of Homemade Vegetable Soup with Beef. It’s soothing, nourishing, and packed with hearty ingredients that bring both flavor and comfort to the table.
This soup combines tender chunks of stew meat and ground beef with a mix of vegetables — corn, peas, green beans, and more — all simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Seasoned with garlic, onion, and just the right amount of spice, it’s a feel-good recipe that helps you heal and refuel.
Whether you’re under the weather or just craving something cozy, this soup hits the spot every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Vegetable Soup
- Comforting and healing — perfect when you’re sick or tired.
- Full of flavor — rich broth with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice.
- Protein-packed — made with both stew meat and ground beef.
- Customizable — use your favorite veggies or whatever’s in your pantry.
- Quick and easy — pressure-cooked in 30 minutes for tender perfection.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This isn’t your average veggie soup. The combination of two types of beef — stew meat for heartiness and hamburger for richness — gives the broth incredible depth. The veggies balance it out, making every spoonful wholesome and satisfying.
Plus, it’s made in one pot (like a Ninja Foodi, Instant Pot, or pressure cooker), which means less mess and more time to rest. It’s the ultimate comfort food for the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meat & Broth Base:
- ½ lb stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ lb ground beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
Vegetables:
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas
- Optional: carrots, diced potatoes, or celery
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt with parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon onion flakes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Homemade Vegetable Soup with Beef (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare and season the meat
In your Ninja Foodi or large soup pot, season both the stew meat and ground beef with garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the beef
Cook the stew meat first until lightly browned, then add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add the liquids and veggies
Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir in corn, green beans, peas, and any additional vegetables you’re using.
Step 4: Season the soup
Add chili powder, cumin, onion flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Pressure cook or simmer
If using a pressure cooker, cook on High Pressure for 30 minutes.
If cooking on the stovetop, simmer gently for 45–60 minutes until the meat is tender and flavors are well blended.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a piece of crusty bread on the side.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup
- Use a mix of meats — stew meat adds tenderness; ground beef adds flavor.
- Don’t skip the garlic and onion — they build the soup’s base flavor.
- Add veggies at the right time — too early, and they’ll turn mushy.
- Use low-sodium broth — gives you better control over seasoning.
- Cook long enough — the longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
- Add potatoes — for extra heartiness if serving as a main course.
- Try diced tomatoes — for added texture and acidity.
- Freeze leftovers — this soup freezes beautifully for later.
- Add pasta or rice — if you want a thicker, more filling version.
- Serve warm with crackers or cornbread — perfect comfort combo!
Variations & Substitutions
- Turkey Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth with extra beans.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Chunky Style: Add diced carrots, potatoes, and celery for texture.
- Tomato-Free: Replace tomato sauce with extra broth for a milder base.
- Herb Boost: Add bay leaves or thyme sprigs while simmering.
- Low-Carb: Skip corn and peas, and add zucchini or cauliflower instead.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or kidney beans.
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of cream or milk at the end.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
What to Serve With Homemade Vegetable Soup
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Saltine crackers
- Cornbread muffins
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Simple green salad
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
To Freeze:
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until steaming. Add a splash of broth if it thickens.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this without a pressure cooker?
Yes! Just simmer it on the stove for about an hour until the meat is tender.
Can I use leftover beef?
Absolutely — roast or steak leftovers work perfectly.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes — frozen veggies work great and make prep easy.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Sure — skip the meat and use beans or lentils for protein.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, add cooked pasta or rice near the end to thicken it up.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely — it freezes wonderfully for future meals.
How do I make it thicker?
Mash a few veggies or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder — still delicious!
Can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce.
What’s the best broth to use?
Beef broth adds richness, but vegetable broth works well too.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Vegetable Soup with Beef is everything you want in a comforting, healing meal — hearty, flavorful, and made with love. Whether you’re fighting a stomach bug, feeling chilled, or just want a cozy dinner that warms you up from the inside out, this soup delivers.
With its rich broth, tender beef, and colorful veggies, it’s the kind of recipe that reminds you how good simple home cooking can be. Serve it with a piece of warm bread, grab a blanket, and enjoy the comfort of a homemade classic.