Cozy Beef And Vegetable Soup

Name: Cozy Beef And Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound beef chuck, cut into cubes; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mixed vegetables (green beans, zucchini, peas)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Essentials

I absolutely love making Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup, especially on chilly days when comfort food is a must. The rich broth, tender beef, and colorful veggies come together to create a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. I find that using fresh herbs and seasonings elevates the flavor profile, making it not only satisfying but also a delight to eat. Plus, it’s the perfect meal to prep in advance and heat up later, making busy weekdays a breeze.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:29:35.025Z

Creating my Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The first time I made it, I experimented with different vegetables and spices, discovering the perfect blend that truly encapsulates the essence of comfort. The slow cooking method allows all those rich flavors to meld beautifully.

One tip I picked up along the way is to sear the beef before adding it to the pot. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor that makes each spoonful delightful. Each time I make this soup, I feel a warmth in my heart, remembering those cozy nights around the dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Soup
A delicious medley of tender beef and vibrant vegetables
Perfectly seasoned broth that soothes the soul
Easy to make and can be frozen for later enjoyment

Choosing the Right Beef

For this soup, using beef chuck is key to achieving a tender and flavorful result. This cut has just the right amount of marbling, which melts during cooking and enriches the broth. When cutting the beef into cubes, aim for uniform sizes of about 1-inch to ensure even cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can also use brisket or stew meat, but be prepared for slightly different flavor and texture profiles due to the varying fat content.

Searing the beef before adding it to the soup not only enhances its flavor but also gives your broth a deeper color and richness. Just make sure your pot is hot enough—look for a shimmering surface on the oil before adding the meat. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. Sear the beef in batches if needed, keeping an eye on those lovely browned edges.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs

The seasonings in this soup are what truly elevate it. Dried thyme and the bay leaf introduce aromatic qualities that complement the earthiness of the beef and the sweetness of the vegetables. If you have fresh thyme, feel free to substitute about three sprigs for the dried version—this adds a brightness that works beautifully in the broth. Just remember to remove the sprigs before serving for a cleaner presentation.

You can also personalize the flavor profile by adding a splash of red wine after sautéing the vegetables. Allow it to reduce for a few minutes before adding the beef and broth. This not only adds depth but also combines perfectly with the tomatoes and herbs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the soup:

Ingredients

1 pound beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mixed vegetables (green beans, zucchini, peas)

Make sure all vegetables are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup:

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the seared beef to the pot. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Mixed Vegetables

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add mixed vegetables and continue to simmer until everything is cooked and flavors meld.

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup is a fantastic meal prep option. You can make a large batch over the weekend and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label them with the date for easy tracking.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat until it's warmed through. If the soup thickens after freezing, you can add a bit of extra beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm baguette—a perfect vehicle for soaking up that rich broth. If you want to dress it up, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delightful contrast in flavors.

Moreover, feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For example, adding corn or diced potatoes can provide a slightly different texture and sweetness, making the soup even heartier for cold weather.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well and save time; just add them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker, cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I substitute for beef?

You can substitute beef with chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter soup.