Introduction
Southern Style Beef & Veggie Soup is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish packed with tender vegetables and rich beef flavor.
It’s a classic homestyle recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or meal prep throughout the week.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced potatoes
1 cup frozen or fresh green beans
1 cup corn kernels
1/2 cup green peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the carrots, potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas. Sprinkle in the thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper, then mix well.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 25–35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended. Stir occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Make
Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to distribute heat evenly.
Brown the beef thoroughly to develop deeper flavor before adding liquids.
Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Simmer gently rather than rapidly boiling to keep vegetables tender and not mushy.
Allow the soup to sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking to enhance flavor blending.
Variations
Add cabbage for extra Southern-style flavor.
Stir in cooked rice or small pasta for a heartier version.
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Include diced zucchini or bell peppers for more vegetables.
Tips
For richer flavor, use homemade beef broth if available.
If the soup becomes too thick, add extra broth or water to reach desired consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stove for best texture.
Nutrition
High in protein from ground beef.
Packed with fiber and vitamins from a variety of vegetables.
Provides iron, potassium, and vitamin C.
Moderate in calories depending on fat content of beef used.
Balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and nutrients.
Healthy Benefits
Supports muscle maintenance due to protein content.
Vegetables provide antioxidants and essential nutrients.
Fiber aids digestion and promotes fullness.
Potatoes and corn supply steady energy.
Can be adjusted with lean meat for a heart-healthier option.
Conclusion
Southern Style Beef & Veggie Soup is a nourishing, filling, and flavorful meal that brings comfort in every spoonful.
Simple to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a timeless recipe perfect for any season.