Cozy Up to a Bowl of Flavor

Ever walked into your kitchen to the mouthwatering aroma of simmering beef and fresh vegetables? It’s like a warm hug from Grandma on a chilly day! This Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup is your secret weapon for a heartwarming meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you kick back and relax. Who doesn’t love a recipe that makes home cooking feel so effortless?

Why Make This Recipe

First off, cleanup is a breeze! Seriously, you only need one pot, which means less scrubbing and more time chilling. Plus, this recipe is incredibly affordable; you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. And let’s be honest: it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or culinary adventurers, everyone will enjoy this comforting, hearty soup. 😋

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1.5 lbs beef stew meat
4 cups beef broth
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 cups green beans, trimmed
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Let’s get to the good stuff! Follow these easy-peasy steps:

In a large crockpot, combine the beef stew meat, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, green beans, thyme, and Italian seasoning.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the veggies are cooked through.
Adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

How to Make Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup (Overview)

So, here’s the scoop: just dump everything in the slow cooker, give it a little stir, and you’re done! The trick is really just letting those flavors mingle. Pro tip: don’t skip toasting the garlic; it adds an extra depth of flavor that you won’t regret. 😉 Feel free to sneak a taste mid-cook for seasoning adjustments; no one’s judging!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup

Imagine this: a steaming bowl of rich, savory soup topped with freshly chopped herbs. Serve it with a crusty bread roll for that crunch and to soak up every last drop. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the hearty beef make your meal look as good as it tastes. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy café, inviting everyone to gather ‘round.

How to Store Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This soup holds up well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it fully before freezing – nobody wants a soup iceberg! When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup

Cut meat into small, even pieces for uniform cooking.
Swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a lighter flavor (vegan-friendly!).
Add a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor.
Throw in frozen veggies if you’re in a pinch; just add them towards the end of cooking.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding spices like cumin or paprika for a kick! Want it vegan? Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils – your taste buds will thank you! 🌱

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?
You’re in luck! The recipe is already dairy-free, so enjoy without worry.

Can I double this recipe?
You sure can! Just ensure your crockpot is big enough; you might need to extend the cooking time slightly.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!