Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

You are going to love this easy crockpot vegetable beef soup recipe. This slow cooker dish is perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep. Try some crockpot vegetable beef soup today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a standalone dish or served alongside bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy the convenience of having meals ready to go.

Tools and Preparation

To make this crockpot vegetable beef soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps you chop your vegetables easily and safely.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onions and potatoes, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 pounds ground beef (browned and drained)
• ½ medium onion (diced)
• 3 potatoes (peeled and diced into 1 inch pieces)
• 16 oz frozen mixed vegetables
• 3 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz cans)
• 4 cups beef broth

Seasonings

• 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

How to Make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients listed above. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place all prepared ingredients into your slow cooker:
1. Add the browned ground beef.
2. Stir in diced onions, potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
3. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the top.

Step 3: Set Your Slow Cooker

Cover your crockpot with its lid:
1. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
2. Check occasionally if desired but avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain heat.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, ladle the hot soup into bowls:
1. Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread.
2. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.

This crockpot vegetable beef soup is sure to become a favorite in your home!

How to Serve Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Serving your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy this hearty dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of flavor and color.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light mixed green salad complements the soup and adds freshness. Consider a simple vinaigrette for dressing.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for those who want an extra cheesy touch.

How to Perfect Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

To make your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth enhance the flavor significantly.
• Brown the Beef: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the crock pot adds depth to the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Include Seasonal Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can provide variety and nutrition.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: Cooking on low for longer allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer soup.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up broth.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory soups, adding a delightful texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Lightly seasoned roasted vegetables can enhance the meal’s nutrition and flavor profile.
5. Cheese Toasties – Grilled cheese sandwiches offer comfort and can be dipped into the soup.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges provide a fun side that complements the soup’s heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using unseasoned broth: This can lead to bland soup. Always use flavorful beef broth and adjust seasoning to taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Uneven pieces cook at different rates. Dice your vegetables into uniform sizes for consistent texture.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef first can lead to less flavor. Take a few extra minutes to brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can affect flavor. Let your soup sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best beef for Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup?

The best cuts include chuck roast or stew meat, as they become tender during slow cooking.

Can I add more vegetables to my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or green beans for added nutrition.

How long does it take to make Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup?

Cooking on low takes about 4-6 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I thicken my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup?

To thicken, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup is not only easy but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Try this delightful recipe today!