There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of warm Grandma’s Vegetable and Beef Soup. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to become a staple in your own family.

I recently learned that my granny’s soup is also called Hamburger Soup, is a very popular southern vegetable soup. It’s so interesting how the same recipe goes from culture to culture and they literally just change the names.

But I have to say I continue to love and call my old fashioned homemade grandma’s soup!

What is the secret to making good soup?

Start with a flavorful base: Whether it’s chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, use a good quality broth as the base of your soup.
Build flavor with aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and celery in olive oil or butter to create a flavorful base for the soup.
Season as you go: Add salt and pepper to the soup as you cook, tasting frequently to adjust the seasoning.
Don’t overcook the vegetables: Overcooking vegetables can result in a mushy texture and loss of flavor. Cook vegetables until they are tender but still have some bite.
Add layers of flavor: Add herbs and spices such as thyme, bay leaves, or cumin to the soup to enhance its flavor.
Simmer the soup: Let the soup simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Skim the fat: Skim the fat off the top of the soup to create a clearer broth.
Let the soup rest: Let the soup cool down for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop further.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients and flavors to create your own signature soup recipe.

Cooking Time

Cooking: 45 minutes
Preparation: 15
Total time: 1 hour

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients list

1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-2 bay leaves
1 large carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced or crushed tomatoes
2 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups beef broth, chicken or vegetarian also works
1 cup water, as needed
Salt and pepper, to taste
¾ cup frozen peas, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to make a Grandma’s Vegetable and Beef Soup

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Add the onions to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent for 2 minutes.
Add the carrots, celery and bell peppers to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften, followed by the garlic, cook until fragrant for a minute more.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the peas to the pot. Stir to combine.
Simmer the soup for an additional 15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and flavours have blended.
Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Perfect Grandma’s Vegetable and Beef Soup

Use a beef chuck roast for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Don’t be afraid to add more vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
This soup is even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
When making soups and stews, it is recommended to use dried herbs as they can enhance the flavor of the hamburger soup more than fresh herbs. However, it is advisable to add fresh parsley towards the end of the cooking process.
For better flavor, it is preferable to use sautéed onions and garlic instead of powdered ones. These ingredients, when cooked with the meat, create a foundation of taste for the soup.
This one-pot meal can be customized by combining various vegetable options. Broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans are some examples to consider. There are no restrictions, so feel free to experiment with different choices. After all, you need to consume your vegetables in some form, right?

What to serve with

We think you will love to combine our Grandma’s Soup with:

Italian Style Garlic Bread

Storage

Transfer the Grandma’s Vegetable and Beef Soup to an airtight container with a lid. Glass or plastic containers are both suitable.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To freeze a soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Leave some room at the top for the soup to expand as it freezes.
When reheating soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s steaming hot, stirring occasionally.
If you’re reheating a portion of the soup, only heat the amount you need and refrigerate or freeze the rest immediately. Avoid reheating soup multiple times as it increases the risk of foodborne illness.

FAQs

What are the best vegetables to put in soup?

Here are some ideas of the best vegetables to put in a soup:

Onions: A staple in many soups, onions add depth and sweetness to the broth.
Carrots: Carrots are sweet and lend a vibrant color to the soup. They also add a good amount of vitamins and fiber.
Celery: Celery has a mild flavor that complements other vegetables and adds texture to the soup.
Potatoes: Potatoes are a hearty vegetable that can help thicken the soup. They are also a good source of potassium and fiber.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes add acidity and sweetness to the soup, making them a great addition to tomato-based soups.
Spinach: Spinach adds a boost of nutrients to the soup and has a mild flavor that blends well with other vegetables.
Broccoli: Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that adds a nutty flavor to the soup. It’s also a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms add an earthy flavor to the soup and are a great source of vitamin D.
Leeks: Leeks add a mild onion-like flavor to the soup and are a good source of vitamin K.

Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and you can add any vegetables you like to your soup. The key is to use fresh and seasonal produce for the best flavor and nutrition.

How do you thicken soup?

Add a starch thickener such as flour or cornstarch, mixed with water or broth.
Puree some of the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender to create a thicker consistency.
Add a roux (flour and butter) to the soup and cook until thickened.

Why is vegetable soup good for the elderly?

Vegetable soup is an excellent option for the elderly for several reasons.

Firstly, as we age, our digestive system tends to become less efficient, and consuming vegetables in the form of soup can aid in easy digestion and nutrient absorption.
Secondly, vegetables are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation, a common problem in older adults.
Thirdly, vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can boost the immune system and improve overall health.
Lastly, vegetable soup can be a satisfying and delicious meal option for seniors who may have difficulty chewing or have a reduced appetite.

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